Oral hygiene is the practice of maintaining your teeth, gums, and mouth through regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing. It is a crucial aspect of overall health. It can have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life. At our dentist Luton, Vogue Dental Care, we believe that understanding the basics of oral hygiene is crucial for our patients to develop good oral health.
The first step in maintaining good oral hygiene is regular brushing. This involves using a toothbrush and toothpaste to regularly remove plaque and food particles from the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky bio-film that forms on the surface of the teeth and contains a mix of bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. It is essential to brush at least twice a day, disrupting plaque before it calcifies, once in the morning and once before bedtime, to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.
Flossing is also an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach areas between the teeth and along the gum line.
Rinsing with mouthwash can also be beneficial in maintaining good oral hygiene. Mouthwash can kill bacteria, freshen breath, and help to prevent gum disease. It is essential to use mouthwash as directed, as some types can cause staining or other issues if used improperly.
The consequences of poor oral hygiene
As we constantly tell our patients, poor oral hygiene can have serious consequences for an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. Tooth decay is a common consequence of poor oral hygiene, which can lead to the need for fillings or even tooth extractions. Gum disease is another consequence of poor oral hygiene that can cause red, swollen gums, and even tooth loss.
In addition to dental issues, poor oral hygiene can also have an impact on an individual’s overall health. Studies have shown that gum disease has been linked to a significantly increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Poor oral hygiene can also cause bad breath, which can be embarrassing and affect an individual’s social and professional interactions.
How our dental clinic can help
At our dentist Luton, we are committed to helping our patients maintain good oral hygiene and avoid the consequences of poor oral hygiene. We offer a range of services to help our patients achieve and maintain good oral health, including regular check-ups and cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to protect against tooth decay.
For patients with gum disease or other dental issues, we offer a range of treatments, including scaling and root planing to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, and gum surgery to treat advanced gum disease. We also offer dental restorations, such as fillings and crowns, to repair damaged teeth and restore function.
In addition to these services, our dentist Luton is here to offer guidance and education on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home. We can provide tips on brushing and flossing techniques, recommend mouthwashes and other products to help maintain good oral hygiene, and answer any questions our patients may have.