Good dental hygiene is a daily process that must be followed every day of your life. The results of practicing good dental hygiene are minimal dental and oral health problems; while the consequences of not practicing good dental hygiene will usually be painful gum disease, tooth decay and often an unattractive smile.
Gum disease can occur at any time, so learning and following a good preventative dental hygiene plan in childhood is an important part of maintaining good dental health throughout your life.
Essential dental hygiene tips
- Brush and floss regularly at least twice a day, in the morning after you arise or after breakfast, and in the evening before you go to bed. For an optimal brushing regimen, you should also brush your teeth around mid-day, just after eating lunch.
- When you brush, move your toothbrush in small circular motions. This increases the bristles’ penetration of small crevices and openings within your teeth which maximizes the removal of food particles and plaque where they are more prone to accumulate and cause decay.
- Take time to brush thoroughly. A thorough and effective brushing of your teeth will normally take at least two minutes. As you brush, visualize all of the different surfaces of your teeth and brush them in a circular motion. Be particularly thorough when you brush between individual teeth, along the gum lines (gently), and on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
- Use fluoride water or other products containing fluoride substances, such as toothpastes and mouthwashes. Fluoride strengthens the enamel.
- Visit your dentist for a checkup every six months.
Consequences of poor dental hygiene
If you ignore the essential requirements of good dental hygiene, you dramatically increase your risk of acquiring any of the following diseases:
- Gum disease. Statistics show that up to 90% of adults suffer from gum disease at some point in their lifetime. Gum disease is the result of the accumulation of plaque, a film that builds up along the gum line and traps food and germs. As it settles in, the germs attack the gums and cause soreness and bleeding, which can lead to gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Oral infections. Oral infections are caused by a group of germs that have settled in a specific area of the mouth. The symptoms of an oral infection are usually very painful and immediate treatment from your family dentist is necessary.
- Thrush. Thrush is a fungal infection caused by high blood sugar and repeated antibiotic use.
- Dry mouth. Dry mouth can be caused by some medications. This can lead to cavities due to the lack of saliva.
For an examination, X-Rays and cleaning, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Harbor Dental Group.
Call us at (916) 372-8525
