Core Points - The article emphasizes the importance of brushing teeth at least twice a day to maintain oral health and prevent dental issues such as cavities and periodontal disease [4][6]. Group 1: Importance of Brushing Twice Daily - Oral health is threatened by two main enemies: cavities and periodontal disease, caused by bacteria that accumulate on teeth [4]. - Bacterial plaque formation occurs in stages, with significant maturation happening within 24 hours, making it crucial to brush at least twice daily to prevent plaque from becoming difficult to remove [5][6]. Group 2: Importance of Nighttime Brushing - Nighttime brushing is particularly important as it helps control the bacterial load on teeth, especially since saliva production decreases during sleep, reducing natural cleaning [9]. - Brushing at night effectively removes food residues accumulated throughout the day, which can feed bacteria and lead to tooth decay [10]. - Nighttime brushing helps eliminate dental plaque, reducing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease [11]. - It also mitigates oral odor caused by bacteria breaking down food residues, which can be more pronounced if brushing is skipped [12].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of proper dental hygiene practices, particularly the correct brushing technique, to prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Group 1: Brushing Techniques - Many patients suffer from wedge-shaped defects in their teeth due to incorrect horizontal "sawing" brushing techniques, which can cause irreversible damage to the enamel [3][4] - The enamel, while the hardest tissue in the human body, is unevenly distributed, making it vulnerable to damage from improper brushing methods [3] - Effective brushing should avoid horizontal motions and instead follow a method that brushes from the gum line towards the crown of the tooth [10] Group 2: Importance of Cleaning Between Teeth - Cleaning between teeth is often neglected, leading to plaque accumulation and increasing the risk of cavities and periodontal disease [4][6] - Periodontal disease is a common chronic condition affecting oral health in China, and if not addressed, it can lead to irreversible damage [4] - The basic principle for preventing periodontal disease and cavities is thorough plaque removal, which includes using dental floss and other cleaning tools [4][8] Group 3: Recommendations for Effective Brushing - Effective brushing involves covering all areas of the mouth, ensuring no spots are missed [7] - Special attention should be given to cleaning between teeth and in grooves, using tools like dental floss and interdental brushes [8] - Brushing should occur twice daily for at least three minutes, with a focus on the evening brushing session [9] - The choice of toothbrush is crucial; it should have bristles of moderate hardness and be replaced every three months or when bristles fray [11]

Core Insights - Periodontal disease is a common health issue affecting over 90% of adults in China, often overlooked until severe symptoms arise [1][2] - Early signs such as gum bleeding and bad breath are frequently ignored, leading to more serious conditions like periodontitis [2][5] - The treatment of periodontal disease is a long-term process involving multiple stages, and maintaining oral hygiene is crucial to prevent recurrence [4][5] Group 1: Understanding Periodontal Disease - Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic inflammation of the supporting structures of teeth, primarily caused by poor oral hygiene leading to plaque and tartar buildup [2][3] - Risk factors include systemic conditions like diabetes, lifestyle choices such as smoking, and genetic predispositions [3] - The disease is linked to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting its systemic impact [2] Group 2: Treatment and Management - Treatment involves four stages: basic treatment (scaling), surgical intervention if necessary, multidisciplinary repair or orthodontic treatment, and long-term maintenance [4] - Patients often experience anxiety and frustration during treatment, especially when faced with tooth loss or the need for extensive procedures [5][6] - Successful management requires regular dental check-ups and adherence to oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing techniques and the use of dental floss [8][9] Group 3: Prevention and Awareness - Many individuals lack awareness of the importance of regular dental check-ups, often seeking treatment only after significant issues arise [9] - Education on proper oral hygiene practices is essential, as many people do not receive adequate guidance on brushing and flossing [9] - The introduction of national policies to reduce the cost of dental implants may improve access to treatment for those affected by periodontal disease [7]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the prevalence and implications of periodontal disease, highlighting its impact on both oral and overall health, as well as the importance of prevention and treatment strategies. Group 1: Understanding Periodontal Disease - Periodontal disease is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects the supporting structures of teeth, including gums, periodontal membrane, alveolar bone, and cementum [6][7] - The disease is often overlooked as it is commonly perceived as an issue for older adults, but it can affect individuals of all ages due to its subtle early symptoms [6][11] Group 2: Impact of Periodontal Disease - Periodontal disease can lead to severe consequences such as tooth mobility and loss, which not only affects chewing function but also impacts aesthetics and social confidence [8][9] - There is a significant correlation between periodontal disease and systemic health issues, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and potentially neurological disorders [8][9] Group 3: Prevalence and Awareness - The prevalence of periodontal disease in China is notably high, with a reported 87.4% incidence of gum bleeding among individuals aged 35-44, an increase of 10.1% over the past decade [11] - Only about 10% of adults in China maintain good periodontal health, indicating a need for increased awareness and education regarding oral health [11] Group 4: Prevention and Treatment - Effective prevention and treatment of periodontal disease require good oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing techniques and regular dental check-ups [12][13] - Treatment may involve professional cleaning, risk assessment, and in some cases, surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the disease [12][14] - Nutritional factors play a role in periodontal health, with a balanced diet being essential for maintaining immune function and overall health [15]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the health concerns surrounding Wei Dongyi, a well-known mathematician, particularly focusing on his dental health issues, specifically periodontitis, and the broader implications of such health conditions on overall well-being [2][10][12]. Group 1: Health Concerns - Wei Dongyi's social media presence has garnered significant attention, with over 22.6 million followers and 13.5 million likes on his videos as of June 8 [2]. - Concerns have been raised regarding Wei's health, particularly his dental issues, which have led to discussions about the responsibilities of his family and educational institutions in supporting his well-being [5][6]. - Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the supporting structures of teeth, is highlighted as a common yet often overlooked health issue that can lead to severe consequences if untreated [8][10]. Group 2: Impact of Periodontitis - Periodontitis is linked to various systemic health issues, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, making it a significant public health concern [10][11]. - The prevalence of periodontitis among adults in China is alarmingly high, with less than 10% of the adult population maintaining good periodontal health [8]. - The disease can lead to tooth loss and has been identified as a primary cause of tooth loss in adults, emphasizing the need for early detection and treatment [8][10]. Group 3: Prevention and Treatment - Effective prevention strategies include maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and addressing risk factors such as smoking and poor nutrition [14]. - The integration of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal diseases is emerging as a promising avenue, potentially improving early detection and personalized treatment plans [14]. - While periodontitis cannot be completely cured, it can be managed effectively through professional treatment and self-care, allowing patients to maintain a stable functional state of periodontal health [15].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing concern over oral health, particularly focusing on the phenomenon of widening gaps between teeth, its causes, implications, and preventive measures. Group 1: Causes of Widening Gaps - Aging leads to gum recession and bone loss, which can cause teeth to appear more spaced apart [3][4] - Periodontal disease affects nearly 90% of adults aged 35-44, contributing significantly to the widening of gaps between teeth [5] - Incorrect dental habits, such as using teeth as tools or improper brushing techniques, can damage gums and exacerbate the issue [7][9] Group 2: Implications of Widening Gaps - Aesthetic concerns arise as larger gaps can create an impression of aging and poor dental health [11] - Functional issues include food trapping, increased risk of cavities, and worsening bad breath due to difficulty in cleaning [12] Group 3: Preventive Measures - Regular dental cleanings every 1-2 years can help remove tartar and prevent gum recession [13] - Proper brushing techniques and the use of dental floss instead of toothpicks are recommended for maintaining gum health [14] - Timely dental restoration for missing teeth is crucial to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting and creating larger gaps [16]