How Teeth Become Damaged

THE USUAL SUSPECTS

3 STAGES OF TOOTH DAMAGE

STAGE 1: ACID ATTACK

When plaque bacteria feed on sugars from food, they produce acid. This acid attacks tooth enamel and makes it weaker. If this process continues, the enamel eventually breaks and a cavity is formed.

STAGE 2: DENTIN DESTRUCTION

Once the acids wear away enamel, the acid and bacteria attack the next layer of the tooth - the dentin. When this layer of the tooth gets exposed, teeth start experiencing pain from sensitivity.

STAGE 3: TOOTH TAKEOVER

If left untreated, this continues until the inner tooth material, or pulp, is affected. At this advanced stage, a root canal is almost always necessary.

PROTECT YOUR PEARLS

OUR LISTERINE^® SWISH SPECIALIST
RECOMMENDS 7 THINGS TO AVOID

1. NON-STOP NIBBLING

Constant snacking means bacteria have a steady flow of food to convert into enamel-damaging acid.

2. THE DAILY GRIND

Teeth grinding wears down enamel and damages teeth. Mouth guards are a good solution.

3. BRUSHING IT OFF

Over-brushing causes damage by thinning out enamel. This makes teeth brittle and sensitive.

4. PUFF PUFF PLAGUE

Smoking causes tooth staining and increases the risk of oral problem.

5. BEING A TOOL

For the sake of protecting your teeth, don’t open bottles and packages with them.

6. FINGER FOOD

Biting nails may crack or chip tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and discomfort.

7. TALKING DIRTY

Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque accumulation that increases the risk of teeth-damaging cavities.

BEAT THE BACTERIA

DON’T LET ACID-CAUSING BACTERIA DESTROY YOUR TEETH
BE SURE TO RINSE TWICE DAILY WITH A LISTERINE^® MOUTHWASH CONTAINING FLUORIDE AFTER BRUSHING TEETH

LEARN MORE

GET STRONGER TEETH

YOUR TEETH NEED
DIFFERENT KIND OF WORKOUT

Counteract the daily damage caused to your enamel and gums by following these healthy-mouth steps.

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1. SEAL THE DEAL

Ask the dentist to seal your healthy teeth with a protective coating of fluoride. This makes enamel stronger and prevents teeth from decay and cavities.

2. CUT IT OUT

Avoid foods that are high in sugar, starch and complex carbohydrates.

3. OUT WITH THE OLD

Change your toothbrush 3-4 times a year. Remember to use soft-bristle brushes or an electric toothbrush that are gentle on teeth and gums.

4. DON'T OVERDO IT

Avoid over-brushing. This wears out enamel and makes teeth weaker.

5. RINSE AND SHINE

Brush. Floss. Rinse. Follow this routine to prevent cavities.