Oral hygiene[[[pic:IMG-mature-couple-brushing-teeth-AdobeStock_195794291.webp|400||right|TPimg-responsive TPimgRight TPPatEdPic-remove|couple brushing their teeth]]Oral hygiene can be described as the practice of maintaining a clean mouth through regular flossing and brushing. Individuals of all ages must maintain healthy oral functioning to avoid dental illnesses and other issues. Importance of Oral HygieneOne of the most significant reasons to practice proper oral hygiene is to prevent dental conditions like bad breath, cavities, and gum disease from developing. Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque accumulation. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that accumulates on the gums and teeth, contributing to severe illnesses, including gum disease and tooth decay. Therefore, good oral hygiene can aid in preventing uncomfortable dental conditions. Furthermore, researchers have found a connection between poor oral hygiene and severe health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Maintaining good dental hygiene may lower your chance of developing these and other health conditions. Additionally, a beautiful, healthy smile can increase your self-esteem by making you look and feel your best. Moreover, it can also help you avoid issues like bad breath or yellowing of teeth, which can significantly detract from your overall appeal. Tips for Oral HygieneJason Widner, DMD and Rebecca Carratt, DMD at Jason Widner DMD Family Dentistry offer a few oral hygiene tips for their patients to help them maintain optimal oral health. Some of these tips include: Make a Habit of Brushing and FlossingBrushing and flossing are the secret to maintaining good oral health. Brushing at least twice daily helps remove food particles and prevents plaque buildup. When brushing your teeth, use a gentle hand, a soft-bristled toothbrush, and non-abrasive toothpaste. Make sure to brush the front and back of your teeth in a circular motion and clean your tongue. Moreover, since a toothbrush may not target all areas of your teeth, make it a habit to floss at least once daily. Floss can help dislodge any food particles stuck deep in the crevices of your teeth. When flossing, stick to a gentle back-and-forth motion to avoid gum injuries. Use MouthwashUsing mouthwash regularly can help eliminate germs that cause bad breath and maintain optimal gum health. However, certain mouthwashes can be harsh on your teeth. Hence, limit the use of mouthwash to no more than twice a day. Moreover, to avoid using harsh mouthwashes, always stick to buying alcohol-free varieties. Avoid Consuming Sugary Foods and BeveragesSugar-based foods and drinks are the culprits behind poor oral hygiene for many individuals with a sweet tooth. Hence, it is important to limit your consumption of such items. If you do feel like having a sugary treat, make sure to brush afterward. Get Regular Dental CheckupsRegular dental checkups and cleanings are critical to maintain good oral hygiene. Although you can take care of your oral hygiene by practicing regular brushing and flossing, there may still be some plaque buildup that only dentists can target with their special tools. Moreover, dental checkups can also help you detect any dental conditions in the early stages and treat them before they worsen. Your dentist can also advise you on proper oral health care and offer you peace of mind that your mental health is in check. If you want more tips on oral hygiene or want to schedule a dental health checkup with renowned professionals, feel free to call us at 425-868-0123 for more information. |
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