When we eat and drink, bacteria in our mouth begins metabolizing the food sugar into acid. The debris leftover from the food gets stuck on and around our teeth. If left unbrushed and unflossed, this leftover debris becomes plaque, or a sticky mixture of food debris, mucus, and bacteria. Plaque removes minerals from the surface of the tooth and causes cavities. Left further untreated, plaque will harden into tartar and calculus at the base of the teeth. Bacteria will inflame the gums causing pockets to form, and plaque will continue to enter deeper at the base of the tooth. Gingivitis develops as gums become red, swollen, recede, and bleed easily. Left even further untreated, gingivitis can lead to a more serious condition called periodontitis, or inflammation of the ligaments and bone structure supporting the teeth. Loss of bone and support result in tooth loss. Therefore, it is vital to maintain your oral health by brushing your teeth with toothpaste, flossing, and visiting your dentist’s office for regular check-ups and cleanings. Read the complete article What is in your Toothpaste in our blog.

Read another article in our blog How to choose the toothpaste right for you for more information.