Oral Health and Bacteria

Bacteria in the Mouth

• Bacteria live in the mouth and feed on food particles, making it their "cafeteria".
• They are tiny and work together to build up plaque, a "living glue" made up of bacteria and food residue.

Plaque and its Effects

• Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on teeth and can lead to tooth decay.
• When plaque thickens, it can turn into a gooey substance that harms teeth.

Saliva and its Role

• Saliva, also known as spit, helps keep the mouth moist and prevents the tongue from drying out.
• Water alone cannot wash away plaque, which is why good oral hygiene is important.

How to Build Up Plaque

• Eating snacks like candy, soda, cookies, and sweets can help bacteria build up plaque.
• Not brushing teeth regularly can allow plaque to build up and lead to tooth decay.

Dentists and Oral Hygiene

• Dentists recommend regular brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay and promote good oral hygiene.
• They use x-rays and regular checkups to monitor tooth health and charged fees for their services.

Bacteria's Plea

• Bacteria ask kids to spare their care and not follow the dentists' advice to brush and floss regularly.
• They want kids to depend on them to tell the truth and allow them to thrive in the mouth.

Bacteria in the Mouth

• Bacteria inhabit the mouth, utilizing food particles as their primary source of nutrition.
• They are microscopic in size and work collectively to form plaque, a sticky substance composed of bacteria and food residue.

Plaque and its Effects

• Plaque is a sticky, film-like substance that develops on teeth, leading to tooth decay if left unchecked.
• As plaque thickens, it can transform into a harmful, gooey substance detrimental to teeth.

Saliva and its Role

• Saliva, also known as spit, maintains the mouth's moisture and prevents the tongue from drying out.
• Saliva's role in oral hygiene is crucial, as water alone is insufficient to remove plaque.

Causes of Plaque Build-up

• Consuming snacks high in sugar, such as candy, soda, cookies, and sweets, can aid bacteria in building up plaque.
• Infrequent brushing of teeth allows plaque to accumulate, leading to tooth decay.

Preventing Tooth Decay

• Regular brushing and flossing are essential for preventing tooth decay and maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Dentists utilize x-rays and regular checkups to monitor tooth health and provide guidance on maintaining good oral health.

Learn about the role of bacteria in the mouth, how plaque forms, and the importance of saliva in maintaining oral health.