Oral Hygiene

The term oral hygiene is used to describe the practice of maintaining good oral health. It involves keeping the mouth clean, free of disease and other issues. This is done through the practice of regular teeth brushing, flossing, dental exams and professional cleanings. Regular oral hygiene is critical in the prevention of dental issues. Some of the most common dental issues patients experience include tooth decay and gum disease.

The guidelines for good oral hygiene begins with brushing the teeth twice each day. The first instance should occur after breakfast and the second instance should follow the last snack or meal of the day. In an ideal scenario, the teeth would be cleaned following each meal, however that is not always feasible. Interdental cleaning is the practice of cleaning between the teeth and is equally important to brushing. Unfortunately, brushing the teeth only removes a portion of the plaque from the surface of the teeth. There are numerous tools which can be used to clean between the teeth, such as floss and interdental brushes.

Tooth brushing alone cannot remove all the plaque from the teeth as some surface of the teeth cannot be reached with a toothbrush. Flossing the teeth aids in reaching the areas between the teeth. Through proper flossing, plaque and food particles can be effectively removed from between the teeth and under the gumline. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), flossing can help to remove up to 80% of plaque.

People often associate good oral hygiene with teeth which are straight and white. However, it is quite possible for a mouth with good oral hygiene to have crooked or stained teeth. Teeth whitening treatments and orthodontics can both be used to improve the appearance of the teeth.

The most common disease impacting patients across the globe is tooth decay. More than 80% of all cavities occur inside fissures in the teeth which cannot be cleaned through regular brushing. Food and debris become easily trapped, while saliva and fluoride do not have the ability to access the area to neutralize the acid and remineralize the teeth. At least a third of all tooth loss in adults is caused by severe gum disease.

It is also important for patients to regularly visit the dentist for an exam and professional cleaning. X-rays may also be completed during these visits to provide the dentist with additional insight. These visits aid in both the prevention and early detection of oral issues before they result in permanent, long-term damage. Professional cleanings, completed by a dental professional, aid in the removal of plaque and tartar build-up.

Good oral hygiene is especially important in maintaining good oral health between these regular visits to the dentist. This is completed through regular brushing of the teeth. It is also important for patients to brush using the correct methods and equipment. Firm or abrasive brushing can result in gum damage. The use of a toothbrush which is too firm can also cause issues to the teeth and gums. When combining brushing with daily flossing, the accumulation of plaque can be managed and prevented. Electric toothbrushes can also aid in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis.

Routine brushing and flossing are idea practices for patients to help reduce and control the buildup of plaque. Good oral hygiene helps prevent patients from experiencing the most common oral issues which include gingivitis, periodontitis, and dental caries.