Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping one’s mouth clean and free of disease and other problems (e.g. bad breath) by regular brushing and cleaning between the teeth. … The most common types of dental disease are tooth decay (cavities, dental caries) and gum diseases, including gingivitis(inflammation of gums), and periodontitis (inflammation of supporting tooth structure).
Tooth decay is the most common global disease. Over 80% of cavities occur inside fissures in teeth where brush cannot reach food left trapped after eating. Thus saliva and fluoride have no access to neutralize acid and remineralize the demineralized teeth, unlike easy-to-clean parts of the tooth, where fewer cavities occur.
Teeth cleaning is part of oral hygiene and involves the removal of dental plaque from teeth with the intention of preventing cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, and periodontal disease. People routinely clean their own teeth by brushing and interdental cleaning, and dental hygienists can remove hardened deposits (tartar) not removed by routine cleaning. Brushing properly twice in a day for at least 2 min is necessary. Those with dentures and natural teeth may supplement their cleaning with a denture cleaner.
Good oral hygiene keeps teeth free from dental plaque build-up, staves off cavities and fights bad breath.
You’re at-home oral hygiene routine should consist of regular brushing and flossing.
Warm saline gargles or rinses with a appropriate medicated mouthwash after every meal is also a good practice. Ask your dentist for a mouth wash suitable for you.
A healthy diet that’s low in sugary foods and soft junk food is also an essential part of good oral hygiene.
Regular dental visits every six months allow your dentist or dental hygienist to provide oral hygiene instructions.
Your dentist may recommend oral hygiene products that cater to your mouth’s unique needs. And don’t forget our oral hygiene index — an excellent resource when you’re looking for information on good oral hygiene.
