Where Does Dental Bacteria Come From?

In a normal healthy mouth there are still thousands of bacteria living on each tooth surface, and each day that number may grow.

“Most of the time we are more concerned with the mouth where regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist are not occurring,” says Dr. Judith Ko, voted Best Dentist by Inland Empire Magazine by her patients. “In those mouths the number of bacteria can number more than 100 million.”

Saliva and bacteria are a normal part of the oral environment and when they are both in balance a healthy condition is maintained, but too often things may go wrong.

“In a person who is taking medication with a side effect of dry mouth, they may find that saliva is difficult to maintain. This means that more bacteria can colonize,” adds Dr. Ko from her Hemet Valley Dental Practice. “Which is why we see more than 80% of the adult population has periodontal disease.”

Periodontal disease develops when the bacteria begins to create pockets around the teeth. These pockets are generally too deep for normal brushing and flossing to disturb the bacteria in them. This means that once bacteria gets embedded below the gum line only your dental professional can disperse them. “Which is why it is so critical to see your dentist at the frequency they have determined is best for you. Most patients who have periodontal disease will benefit from a schedule of being seen every three months as that is the amount of time it takes for the bacteria to regrow.”

Call today and schedule your appointment. Don’t let periodontal disease destroy your smile.

Spreading Decay to Others. Are You Guilty?

While everyone knows eating candy and other sweets can increase your likelihood of decay, many might not realize that decay is caused by bacteria that can be spread.

Decay is caused by bacteria that live in your mouth. The bacteria feed on the food debris that is ingested, and produce an acid, which then combines with the remaining food debris, and saliva to create a filmy substance known as plaque. It is this plaque that can cause cavities to form.

“No matter what you eat,” says Dr. Judith Ko from her Hemet, California cosmetic dental practice, “cavities can only form with the help of bacteria.”

And that bacteria can also be spread to others. “Most of the time by sharing food, utensils, or kissing,” adds Dr. Ko.

What can you do about it? Regular visits to your dentist are the first step to keeping bacteria in check. Another help is chewing sugar-free gum between meals, especially one with xylitol. Xylitol is well known to reduce decay in patients who use it on a regular basis. Drink plenty of water, especially water with fluoride.

Keep your smile and your family’s smile healthy and happy. This is one time when you don’t want to share.