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What is Good Oral Hygiene? Let's go over the basics:
Brushing and flossingOral Hygiene Juno Beach FL. The staple of good oral hygiene. Everyone should brush at least twice a day, and preferably after every meal. You should floss at least twice a day. These activities remove plaque, which is a mass of bacteria that is constantly forming on the surface of your teeth which eventually leads to cavities and tooth decay. Bacterial plaque can cause gingivitis and other periodontal diseases. These activities should include fluoride and mouthwash.
Commit to a daily oral-health regimen.
As an experienced dental hygienist, Dr. Weinberg will recommend an effective oral health routine based specifically to your needs (see next section). It will be outlined clearly and easy to follow. People with underlying conditions and pregnant women, people will need to follow an especially rigid daily routine.
Understand your own oral-health needs.
Your oral health depends on many factors, including your diet, whether you take medications that may limit the amount of saliva in your mouth, daily health habits, your overall health and your daily oral hygiene routine. Change in your health status can and will affect your oral health. Women who are pregnant and those who take certain medications experience oral changes. For example, pregnancy can cause inflammation of the gums, which is called pregnancy gingivitis. Patients with asthma, who breathe through their mouths, particularly when sleeping, can develop dry mouth, increased plaque formation and gingivitis."
Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks high in simple sugars.
When you eat, particles of food can become lodged in and around your teeth, which fuel bacteria. The bacteria in the plaque produces acid every time you eat. This results in bacteria breaking down sugars and producing acids that begin the decay process. Foods containing sugars or starches (complex sugars), expose your teeth to bacterial acids for 20 minutes or more. Eventually the acids can break down the enamel surface of your teeth, leading to a cavity. When you snack, brush your teeth or chew sugarless gum afterward. A balanced diet being important goes without saying. Supplement your diet with all the necessary vitamin and minerals. Avoid tobacco in any form. This includes smoking cigarettes or using smokeless tobacco which increases your risk of oral cancer, gingivitis, periodontitis, stains on the teeth and tooth decay.
Visit the dental office regularly.
Examine your mouth daily and when you notice changes in your mouth visit your dentist. Although you may only see your dentist only a few times a year any time you notice changes that might be of concern make an appointment immediately. These changes could include swollen gums, chipped teeth, discolored teeth or sores or lesions on your gums, cheeks or tongue. This is especially important for tobacco users, who are at increased risk of developing oral cancer. Dr. Weinberg will discuss with you the recommended frequency of your visits as some people need to visit their dentist more frequently than others.
Remember, we at the Center for Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry are committed to you having the perfect smile!
Dr. Brion Weinberg, D.D.S, PA.,Oral Hygiene Juno Beach FL |