Oral Hygiene Oral hygiene is the foundation of healthy teeth and gums, and is directly connected to overall health. Good oral hygiene is a collection of habits that prevent common dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. It also reduces the risk of systemic health problems linked to oral health such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The Basics of Oral HygieneA handful of habits prevent most dental issues. BrushingEffective oral hygiene starts with the regular brushing of all surfaces of the teeth, at least twice per day with toothpaste. Brush gently, too much pressure may damage the gums. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or when the bristles become frayed. FlossingFlossing is equally important as brushing. This practice removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline, where a toothbrush cannot reach. We recommend that patients floss at least once per day to keep these hard-to-reach areas clean. The best time to floss is at the end of the day, before going to sleep. This prevents bacteria from growing around the food particles between teeth, and releasing acids that damage tooth enamel. Nutrition and Its Impact on Oral HealthFood choices have a huge impact on oral hygiene. Sugary foods and beverages create an ideal environment for cavity-causing bacteria that erode tooth enamel. Incorporating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and dairy products helps to maintain strong teeth and gums. Foods high in calcium, such as milk and cheese, strengthen enamel. HydrationDrinking plenty of water is another simple and effective habit that helps to protect the teeth. Water helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth, which reduces the risk of decay. In addition, dry mouth contributes to bacteria growth. Professional Dental CareOral hygiene is not complete without regular checkups and professional dental cleanings that remove tartar, which is a hardened form of plaque that cannot be eliminated by brushing and flossing alone. When patients come in for a checkup, our team can identify potential issues such as cavities or gum disease before they become larger problems. During checkups, our team takes X-rays to detect problems not visible to the naked eye, such as decay between the teeth, or bone loss. Ideally, our patients come in every six months to maintain their healthy smiles. This allows us to detect any issues early, and treat them quickly. The Connection Between Oral and Overall HealthOral hygiene is more than maintenance for a bright smile, it is tightly intertwined with overall health. Poor oral health has been associated with systemic conditions that include heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. For example, gum disease has been shown to increase inflammation throughout the body, and to potentially worsen other chronic conditions. Building Lifelong HabitsTeaching children good oral hygiene creates a lifetime of healthy habits. The encouragement of proper brushing and flossing techniques, limits on sugar, and regular dental visits help little ones develop a positive attitude toward dental care. For more tips on practicing good oral hygiene, come in and see us at Avery Dental Center or call for a dental exam and cleaning. |
