Oral hygiene, why it is important and how you can maintain it in London SE1

Oral hygiene, why it is important and how you can maintain it in London SE1

22 / 02 / 2012

Oral hygiene is the overall well-being of your mouth, including your teeth, tongue and gums. In order to maintain good oral hygiene, there are several steps you must follow and a dental routine you must create. Bad oral hygiene can lead to bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay and abscessed teeth. These are all painful or embarrassing conditions that can be amplified if your teeth are lost or require extraction due to the problems they have faced.

Bacteria, found in plaque, is the main reason behind all of these conditions. Bacteria can accumulate in the mouth and either infect the gum tissue, produce acids that decay the teeth or even just produce foul-smelling gases that contribute to bad breath.

In order to remove bacteria from the mouth, it is essential that one brushes their teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and a clean toothbrush. When cleaning your teeth, use small, circular motions on either surface, and be sure not to scrub too aggressively as this can damage enamel. Also, it is very important to clean your tongue, as this is way many bacteria grow and multiply. Your tongue can be cleaned using the other side of your toothbrush and should be done twice a day. Flossing should be completed once a day, as this will remove any plaque and bacteria from between the teeth.

A diet low in sugar and starchy carbohydrates should be followed in order to look after oral hygiene. Your dentist in London SE1 will tell you that bacteria feed on sugar and starch, and when they do, they produce acids that slowly decay the tooth. Tooth decay can lead to an abscessed tooth and the need for root canal surgery.

Finally, regular dental check-ups are one of the most important aspects of a good dental routine. Every six months you should visit your local dentist, unless of course you have been experiencing problems and then you should arrange an appointment immediately. Your dentist is trained to spot, diagnose and treat any problems you may have. Your oral health lies in their hands.