subject: Say Cheese! (The Magic and Benefits of Fluoride) [print this page] People from all over the world have different perceptions of beauty. In China for example, it was customary for women to undergo foot binding. It is said that this is the most painful form of body modification where the feet is wrapped tightly with bandages and the girl is forced to wear shoes that will keep it bound till it finally lose its original shape and form. In other parts of the globe particularly in Europe, during the 16th century, it was customary for women to wear tight corsets designed to flatten the stomach and turn the torso into fashionable cylindrical shapes. Bizarre body modifications are not limited to wearing certain clothes and footwear. By far one of the most painful body modification, is that of the Mentawai people, where they sharpen their teeth on purpose to make them look beautiful. The process involves chiseling part of the teeth to make its ends sharper. A Dentist in Memphis believes there are several drawbacks to modifying the natural appearance of the teeth. Sharpening it hurts other parts of the mouth like the tongue and the gums. Also, this may expose sensitive parts of the teeth allowing bacteria to enter and eventually affect the softer portions of the teeth. This may cause infections and gum problems, not to mention tooth decay and ultimately loss of teeth. However, there are other reasons why the teeth rot aside from deliberate modification of its natural shape. Not brushing the teeth allows bacteria to accumulate and eventually eat up on the enamel and tissue surrounding the teeth. Lack of fluoride can also cause cavities to accumulate and lead to decay. There are several processes that can be used as preventive measures, like frequent visits to the dentist. Memphis dentists particularly advocate on making the teeth stronger by heightening oral defense against bacteria. A great tool provided by dentists in Memphis is fluoride. It is a mineral supplementing the teeth with essential protection from cavities. It has to be directly applied to the enamel of the tooth to make it strong and to create an invisible barrier that can protect the teeth from harmful microorganisms.
