Dental Hygiene

Maintain that smile Dental Hygiene

What is the purpose of oral and dental hygiene
Good dental and oral hygiene prevents the formation of plaque, which is the sticky film of bacteria that forms on the hard surfaces of the teeth. Plaque can lead to further dental and oral problems such as tooth decay, tartar, gingivitis and periodontitis or “gum disease”. It also improves quality of life as teeth will last longer by preserving speech and eating functions.

What are the potential consequences of improper oral and dental hygiene?

Aa result of improper dental and oral hygiene, plaque is accumulated which releases acids when the bacteria uses the starch and sugar from the food in the mouth. This acid corrodes the tooth enamel overtime and results in holes or cavities in the tooth. It also irritates the gums resulting in bleeding, which results in foul breath

The cavities are usually cleaned and refilled with an inert material by the dentists to retain and restore the teeth as well as protect it from further tooth decay. If left untreated cavities can result in loss of the teeth entirely.

Tartar or calculus – Constant accumulation of plaque as a result of irregular brushing and flossing results in the hardening of plaque into a yellow or brown mineral deposit called tartar or calculus. As a result of its rough and crusty surface they become ideal locations for further plaque growth. When tartar forms under the gum line it leads to gum disease.

Gingivitis – This is the initial stage of gum disease and is characterised by inflammation of the gums painless bleeding during brushing and flossing. If treated with adequate dental care, it is reversible. If ignored, it can lead to a more serious and advanced condition in gum disease called periodontitis.

Periodontitis – This is advanced gum disease, which leads to the destruction of structures supporting the teeth including the bone, causing the loosening and falling of teeth or requiring their removal as a result. The signs of the condition are red, swollen, bleeding gums that are shrinking away from the teeth. The resulting widening spaces between the teeth and exposed root surfaces become highly vulnerable to decay.

Maintaining good oral and dental hygiene

Proper dental and oral hygiene will prevent the formation of plaque which as explained above is the main factor that leads to gum disease and tooth decay. Parents must guide children on the proper dental hygiene methods for daily practice. You can also seek the dentist’s advice for the proper oral and dental hygiene practices to be followed.

Fluoride use

It is important to use fluoride-in toothpaste, fluoridated drinking water, or dental treatments. The fluoride protects the teeth by binding with enamel to make it stronger.

Antiseptic mouthwashes
Use antiseptic mouthwashes regularly after brushing and/or flossing to kill plaque forming bacteria, and especially if you have bad breath.

Precautions to be taken in your oral hygiene program

Taking care begins from as early as infancy and continues throughout ones life. Hence there are some ideal precautions that must be taken at various periods of life and under various conditions.

Infants – Use a moist cloth or a soft toothbrush to wipe the tooth clean. Fluoride can be toxic to infants therefore it is necessary to use only very limited amounts of toothpaste that contains this ingredient.

Adults with partial or full dentures, bridges – Must maintain proper dental and oral hygiene as instructed by the dental hygienist or dentist in order to prevent gum disease. Denture users must regularly visit their dentist, to reline and adjust the dentures as required. This will prevent gums from becoming red and swollen.

Brushing and flossing precautions

Brushing and flossing must be done thoroughly but not too vigorously as rough movements can irritate or damage sensitive oral tissues.

Sore or bleeding gums experienced in the initial few days after flossing is normal. However, any bleeding, sore or abnormal condition that prolongs beyond one week should be to a dentist.

Services

The oral hygiene services recommended by our dentist will be completely dependent upon the level of hygiene you have maintained in the first instance. Our dentist will be able to assess this during your dental examination, inform you of any additional requirements that are needed and then liaise with our hygienist accordingly. We thrive as a team to ensure your teeth and gums are dentally fit.

Hygiene treatments we offer, using the best in scaling and polishing equipment range from 20 minutes per session to 40 minutes, dependent upon your requirements and choice. In severe cases our dentist may recommend a full mouth disinfection which can take 2 hours in the morning and afternoon.