Healthy Teeth and Gums
A healthy tooth is a living structure, nourished by blood vessels and supplied by nerves; its root is sheathed in special shock-absorbing periodontal tissue, and the base of its crown is firmly held by gums which are pale pink and do not easily bleed. The enamel which covers the crown of a healthy tooth is the hardest substance in the body.
The single most important influence on teeth at any age is, not surprisingly, FOOD: fibrous, chewy, non-sugary, non-acidic foods keep teeth healthy; soft, acid-producing, highly refined foods packed with sugar promote decay.
Tooth abscess, caries (tooth decay), discolouration of the teeth, gingivitis, grinding teeth, sensitive teeth, toothache and teething in children are the most common problems related to the dental health.