Pollution : The Modern Age curse to teeth

Our “pearly whites” are very prone to pollution and it’s after effects. Pollution has serious effects on oral health, as it may lead to several gum diseases, tooth loss, and even oral cancer.

Types of Pollution affecting Teeth ?

1. Air pollution is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. Household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities and forest fires are common sources of air pollution. This is further exaggerated to higher levels during festivals like Diwali or the major wedding saya by bursting of crackers, etc.

2. Water pollution is the contamination of water sources by substances which make the water unusable for drinking, cooking, cleaning, swimming, and other activities. Pollutants include chemicals, trash, bacteria, and parasites. All forms of pollution finally make their way to water. 

3. Food pollution is generally defined as the presence in food or associated with food of toxic chemicals (elements or compounds) and/or biological contaminants which are not naturally present in food or are above their natural background levels (for those chemicals which are naturally found in some foods).

Effects of Pollution on Teeth?

1. Air Pollution 

• Direct or indirect exposure to polluted air deteriorates the quality of oral health, resulting in damaging the upper layer of teeth, called enamel, and increases the chances of dental chipping and dental caries.

• Bad Air Quality Index causes inhalation of air contaminants and chemicals that cause oral cancers. Air contaminants like sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and varying sizes of fine particulate matter are to blame.

• Dry mouth. Bad quality of air and dehydration are the primary cause that affect the production of saliva by salivary glands. 

2. Water Pollution-

• Contaminated water in geographic areas causes staining and yellowing of teeth. Fluoride and chlorine water contaminants causes pigmentation of teeth. It affects the teeth by softening the enamel and further leading to chipping of low grade fracture of teeth.

3. Food Pollution- 

• Contaminated food causes an increase in the overall bacterial load. This will further lead to halitosis, caries and overall decline of oral health.

Remember the Figure of 9 to combat Pollution !!

1. Wear a mouth guard to combat air pollution.

2. Drink at least 3-4 litres of water everyday.

3. Any swelling, change in gum colour or pain should be pro-actively checked.

4. Vitamin C rich foods should be present in your diet everyday. Vitamin C helps promote gum health. Some sources of Vitamin C are almonds, eggs, cauliflower, mushroom, sweet potato, raspberries, salmon, whole grains, spinach, avocado, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit. 

5. Stop or avoid lifestyle habits like smoking, vaping etc.

6. Visit your dentist regularly. The recommended visit is twice each year. 

7. Brush your teeth twice each day. This will avoid buildup of tartar and helps to protect oral health.

8. Massage your gums twice a day.

9. Get a professional prophylaxis twice a year.