Mouth Facts

QA Question:

1. Millions of adults have some type of gum disease, yet many of us are unaware

QA Question:

2. Eating an apple spurs a cleansing action that shakes up the plaque

QA Question:

3. Drinking milk can neutralize acids produced by plaque bacteria

Milk, and other dairy foods such as cheese and yogurt are not only packed with bone-fortifying calcium, but also with the protein casein, which research suggests reduces acid levels in the mouth. In addition, drinking milk can neutralize acids produced by plaque bacteria. Note: Drinking milk with cereal or dessert doesn't have the same benefit as direct consumption after eating. No milk around? Eat a piece of cheese instead.

Back to top

QA Question:

4. Brushing only cleans 25% of your mouth

Rinsing twice a day isn’t just a great way to keep your breath fresh*. It’s the key to getting your whole mouth clean. The truth is that brushing alone only gets your mouth 25% clean. The power of the swish fights bacteria in your whole mouth, – teeth and gums. But it should be used twice a day to reach its deep-clean effectiveness. After all, germs are in your mouth all day, every day, and one swish only protects you for 12 hours.

Back to top

QA Question:

5. The most common causes of gum problems are improper oral care

The most common cause of irritated gums is an inconsistent oral care routine at home. Improper brushing technique can also exacerbate these issues. Not brushing and flossing regularly or properly allows food and bacteria to lodge in between the tooth and gums creating a home for bacteria to multiply and become dental plaque. This buildup of plaque at the gum line, if not removed with a good, healthy clean-mouth routine, can harden into tartar, which can only be removed with professional dental tools.

Back to top

QA Question:

6. Odd new spaces forming between your teeth is an early sign of gum disease

Other unique changes in your mouth spurred by gum disease could also include tender-to-the-touch gums, odd new spaces forming between your teeth, loose teeth and/or a change in your bite or the way your teeth fit together when you bite. These are signs you should not ignore. If you take control of your gum situation, there's still a chance for you to avoid advanced gum disease.

Back to top

QA Question:

7. Added sugars in most sweets are bad news for your gums

This frozen treat harms gums, especially those that are already vulnerable. In general, the added sugars in most sweets—from cookies to sodas—are bad news for your gums, because the sugars bind to gums, triggering the release of eroding acids. What’s more, ice cream’s icy temperature can irritate gums where they have already started wearing away, exposing roots to hot and cold sensations.

Back to top

QA Question:

8. Eating tomatoes might wear away gums and promote decay

QA Question:

9. Food with too much starch are bad for your gums

QA Question:

10. Sports drinks can harm your gums and promote tooth decay

QA Question:

11. Red wine can stain teeth, but white wine can damage your gums

QA Question:

12. Pregnant women are more susceptible to gum disease

You are here

Mouth Facts