Dental Care

Taking care of your teeth prevents tooth decay and gum disease which can cause bleeding.

What you should know:

• Taking care of your bleeding disorder includes taking care of your teeth. People with bleeding disorders can have the same dental problems as anyone else. But many people with bleeding disorders don't brush and floss their teeth because they are afraid of starting a bleed. Without care, your teeth will decay and may abscess or develop severe gum disease and eventually fall out. 
• Tooth decay causes cavities (holes in your teeth). It starts when you don't brush the plaque from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that contains germs. These germs turn sugar in your mouth into acids. The acids then eat through the surface of your teeth and cause cavities. The plaque also causes gum disease. You will have less plaque on your teeth if you brush and floss them every day. 
• Eating a balanced diet is good for your teeth. Suckers and other candy that keep your teeth bathed in sugar should be rare treats. Sipping soft drinks is especially bad for your teeth due to the acid content of the drinks.
• You can prevent problems with your teeth by brushing and flossing them every day, eating the foods that are good for you, and seeing the dentist every six to twelve months. 
• People with braces need to follow their dentists’ advice about what foods they should not eat.