A healthy smile is not just an aesthetic feature, but a sign of good oral health. Many people underestimate the importance of consistent dental care until problems like tooth decay or gum disease first appear. However, daily dental care is the most important measure for maintaining long-term healthy teeth and strong gums.
Why is dental care important?
Our teeth are exposed to many stresses every day: Food, drinks, bacteria, and acids attack tooth enamel and can cause long-term damage. A good dental care routine helps minimize these risks and keep teeth healthy.
Protection against tooth decay and gum disease
The main cause of dental problems is bacteria in the mouth. They form a sticky coating, called plaque, that builds up on the teeth and gums. If these bacteria are not removed regularly, it can lead to:
• lead to caries , a disease in which acids attack tooth enamel and cause holes in the teeth【1】.
• lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) , which, if left untreated, can develop into periodontitis – a serious disease that can cause tooth loss【2】.
Health effects beyond the mouth
Dental health affects not only the oral cavity but also overall health. Scientific studies show that poor oral hygiene is associated with diseases such as:
• Cardiovascular diseases 【3】
• Diabetes 【4】
• Respiratory diseases 【5】
can be associated with. Inflammations in the mouth can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body and cause health problems there.
Fresh breath and aesthetic benefits
Regular dental care prevents unpleasant bad breath (halitosis), which is often caused by bacteria in the mouth. [6] It also helps keep teeth white and free from stains caused by coffee, tea, or red wine. [7]
How often and for how long should you brush your teeth?
The German Society for Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (DGZMK) recommends:
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day – in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before going to bed【8】.
• Two minutes per brushing session – optimal is about 30 seconds per jaw section (top right, top left, bottom right, bottom left)【9】.
• Additional cleaning of the spaces between the teeth – at least once a day with dental floss or interdental brushes【10】.
The role of bacteria in the mouth
Not all bacteria in the mouth are harmful. A healthy mouth has a natural bacterial flora that is important for digestion and the immune system. [11] The problem arises when certain harmful bacteria multiply uncontrollably and cause plaque or tartar to form. [12]
These bacteria feed on sugar and release acids that attack tooth enamel.[13] Therefore, a low-sugar diet is also an important part of dental care.[14]
A healthy smile starts with proper care
Dental care is not a luxury, but a necessary routine for a healthy life. Regular brushing, proper technique, and a healthy diet can help prevent dental problems and subsequent expensive treatments. [15]
Sources:
【1】 German Society for Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (DGZMK)
【2】 Federal Dental Association (BZÄK)
【3】 American Heart Association (AHA)
【4】 German Diabetes Society (DDG)
【5】European Respiratory Journal
【6】 German Society for Periodontology (DG PARO)
【7】British Dental Journal
【8】 DGZMK guideline for caries prevention
【9】 German Society for Preventive Dentistry (DGPZM)
【10】 American Dental Association (ADA)
【11】Journal of Oral Microbiology
【12】 German Society for Microbiology
【13】 Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR)
【14】 European Journal of Nutrition
【15】 World Health Organization (WHO)
