The mouth is a complex part of your body. It’s made of so many different parts that work together to keep your oral health in great shape. You may wonder exactly what each component’s job is. By getting to know them better, you can protect your oral health. So, here are four portions of your oral anatomy to know and why each one is important.
The Teeth
Your teeth are often the start of the show since you show them off when you smile. People often have 32, but it’s possible to be born with fewer or more. There are four types: the incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. They help you tear and grind your food, allowing your body to extract all the nutrients more easily. Better yet, they also help with clear speech.
Each structure is covered by enamel, the strongest substance your body makes. That said, they can still become damaged by hard foods, injury, or eroded by plaque. Thankfully, you can keep them strong by brushing and flossing with fluoride toothpaste.
Gum Tissue
The part of your mouth that holds your teeth in place and protects the roots is your gums, or gingiva. They are pink and firm when healthy, but they can become infected by the bacteria in your mouth, causing periodontal disease. If this happens, then these soft tissues become inflamed, noticeably red, and tender. Over time, when left untreated, tooth loss is possible. Your oral hygiene can help you avoid trouble.
The Tongue
You may use your tongue to feel across your mouth, but this muscular organ is helpful with chewing, speaking, and swallowing. Taste buds covering it help detect flavor. It has a natural pink color, but it can develop a white film if there’s a layer of bacteria on it. To remove it, you can scrub it off with your toothbrush. Any other discoloration should be mentioned to your dentist, as there may be something going awry behind the scenes.
Salivary Glands
When looking at your favorite foods, your mouth might start watering. This is thanks to your salivary glands. They keep your oral cavity moist and lubricated, but saliva also helps get the digestive process started. It can also remineralize your enamel while washing away harmful bacteria. Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables can stimulate it, but drinking water helps as well.
There are several more parts to your oral health, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. By talking to your dentist, they can help ensure everything stays in great shape and protected.
About the Practice
Ready for a stronger grin? Our team at Advanced Dental Concepts is dedicated to helping patients in Crown Point get worry-free teeth and gums with a wide range of treatments and preventive care. Led by compassionate dentists, we can catch problems early before they become a big headache. If you are due for your next checkup and cleaning, schedule an appointment or call our office at 219-663-6878.