Q.
good afternoon,
I have been doing a bit of online research and have found that the flow of saliva plays a massive part in getting rid of bacterium and plaque obviously not getting rid of it all but helping. so then I had this thought. if it takes around Fifteen minutes for plaque to build up after a snack or meal whilst out of the house could I swill my mouth with a drink- water! in order to aid the saliva’s job or disrupting the bacteria as it tries to form? would this be a good idea? I have a two pin sized holes either side of my top, right, central incisor. I was hoping by doing this I could help stop them growing bigger? are they a sign of periodontitis/gingivitus/neither and if so will this help
good afternoon,
I have been doing a bit of online research and have found that the flow of saliva plays a massive part in getting rid of bacterium and plaque obviously not getting rid of it all but helping. so then I had this thought. if it takes around Fifteen minutes for plaque to build up after a snack or meal whilst out of the house could I swill my mouth with a drink- water! in order to aid the saliva’s job or disrupting the bacteria as it tries to form? would this be a good idea? I have a two pin sized holes either side of my top, right, central incisor. I was hoping by doing this I could help stop them growing bigger? are they a sign of periodontitis/gingivitus/neither and if so will this help
A.
The positive effects of saliva are not only physical (lubrication, flushing/rinsing) but also chemical (antimicrobial properties). In healthy individuals there is a constant flow of saliva which moistens and helps to protect the teeth and it is important to be properly hydrated so that the salivary flow is adequate. From the prevention and treatment of gum disease point of view and assuming that you are a healthy individual with normal flow of saliva the most important measure is the mechanical removal of the plaque with brushes (manual or electric) and interdental devices (floss or interdental brushes). If this is done effectively and all the plaque (biofilm attached to the teeth) is removed from all areas, one personal cleaning session per day is enough provided that you are consistently good doing it.
The positive effects of saliva are not only physical (lubrication, flushing/rinsing) but also chemical (antimicrobial properties). In healthy individuals there is a constant flow of saliva which moistens and helps to protect the teeth and it is important to be properly hydrated so that the salivary flow is adequate. From the prevention and treatment of gum disease point of view and assuming that you are a healthy individual with normal flow of saliva the most important measure is the mechanical removal of the plaque with brushes (manual or electric) and interdental devices (floss or interdental brushes). If this is done effectively and all the plaque (biofilm attached to the teeth) is removed from all areas, one personal cleaning session per day is enough provided that you are consistently good doing it.
Dr Jose Zurdo
Mall Dental Care
Pall Mall, Manchester, M2 4DU
Web: www.malldental.com Tel: 0161 830 7300
