Say cheese! The benefits of good oral hygiene

Are you sure you are practicing good oral hygiene? Do you have bleeding gum? Bad breath? Or are you just interested in what oral hygiene entails? Then this blog is for you. Go through it and decide if you practice good oral hygiene or bad oral hygiene.

What is Oral Hygiene?

Maintaining a clean, healthy mouth is referred to as practicing oral hygiene. This entails using mouthwash, brushing and flossing your teeth frequently, going to the dentist for regular checkups, and avoiding foods that may cause tooth decay and gum disease.

 It also includes going to the dentist for regular checkups. Preserving good dental hygiene is crucial for keeping teeth and gums healthy as well as for keeping your smile radiant and preserving fresh breath. It can also help you avoid significant health issues like tooth loss and periodontal disease.

And mind you, not only children or teenagers loss their teeth, adult also lose their teeth as a result of bad oral hygiene, continue with me and let me enlighten you on what good and bad oral hygiene are.

What conditions are linked to oral health?

Both inside the mouth and across the body, oral health is connected to a variety of disorders and diseases. Oral health is associated with several conditions, such as:

•   Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. It is associated with poor oral hygiene and, if ignored, can result in tooth loss.
•   Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the breakdown of the enamel, the outer coating of the tooth, as a result of plaque and bacterial buildup. If neglected, it may result in tooth loss and cavities.
•    Bad breath: Poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath or halitosis. This can be a social problem and can also be a sign of underlying oral health problems.
•     Oral cancer: Oral cancer, which can affect the lips, tongue, gums, and other areas of the mouth, is associated with an increased risk of dental caries.
•     Cardiovascular disease: Studies have shown a correlation between poor dental health and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
•    Respiratory infections: Poor oral hygiene can contribute to respiratory infections such as pneumonia, particularly in people who are hospitalized or have weakened immune systems.

I know someone of us may be wondering what does have good oral hygiene has to do with some of these diseases, while some of us may be scared or have not even heard of all these diseases before. But I can tell you that they are all preventable, you don't have to wait till you have one of these diseases before you can believe that they are real. Just like the saying "Prevention is better than cure."  

How do I know that I have poor oral hygiene? Am I practicing the right oral hygiene? What is poor oral hygiene? If you are asking yourself that question, then the next sub-topic is for you.

What are the signs of poor oral hygiene?

Many dental and oral health issues can result from poor oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene may exhibit any of the following symptoms:

• Bad breath: Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be a sign of poor oral hygiene. It is caused by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth.

• Tooth decay: Tooth decay is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. It can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity, and tooth loss if left untreated.

• Gum disease: Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the gums. It can lead to bleeding gums, swollen or tender gums, receding gums, and tooth loss if left untreated.

• Discolored teeth: Poor oral hygiene can cause teeth to become discolored, yellow, or brown due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria.

• Pain or sensitivity in the teeth: Poor oral hygiene can cause tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to pain or sensitivity in the teeth.

• Dry mouth: Poor oral hygiene can cause dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

• Mouth sores: Poor oral hygiene can lead to the development of mouth sores, which can be painful and uncomfortable.

How can I improve my oral hygiene?

There are several things you can do to improve your oral hygiene and maintain healthy teeth and gums:

•   Brush your teeth regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces.
•   Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. Floss at least once a day.
•   Use mouthwash: Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Use an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing.
•   Limit sugary and acidic foods: Sugary and acidic foods can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
•   Drink plenty of water: Drinking water can help wash away food particles and bacteria in your mouth. It can also help keep your mouth hydrated, which is important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
•   Visit your dentist regularly: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can help identify and treat any dental problems early on before they become more serious.
•   Quit smoking: Smoking can cause a range of dental and oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. If you smoke, consider quitting.

What are the advantages of good oral hygiene?

There are several advantages to maintaining good oral hygiene and taking care of your teeth and gums:

   ▪Prevention of tooth decay and gum disease: Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. This can help avoid painful and costly dental procedures in the future.
▪Fresh breath: Good oral hygiene can help prevent bad breath or halitosis. This can lead to greater confidence and social comfort.
▪Healthier overall body: Studies have shown that poor oral health can be linked to other health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Good oral hygiene can help prevent these and other systemic health problems.
▪Stronger teeth: Good oral hygiene practices, such as using fluoride toothpaste and getting regular dental check-ups, can help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
▪Improved appearance: Good oral hygiene practices can help keep your teeth clean, white, and bright, which can lead to a more attractive smile.
▪Saves money: By preventing dental problems through good oral hygiene practices, you can avoid costly dental treatments in the future.

I know we all want this for our oral hygiene, and I tell you again it is achievable as long as you practice what is written you are going to go.

How often should I see my dentist for exams and cleanings?

It is advised that you visit your dentist for routine examinations and cleanings at least twice a year, or every six months. Regular dental examinations can help detect any dental issues early on, before they worsen and necessitate more involved treatment. 

It is not until you have an issue with your oral health that you visit a dentist, the number of times you visit the dentist, however, may vary depending on your specific oral health requirements. 

Your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you have a history of dental issues like gum disease or a lot of cavities. On the other hand, if your oral health is outstanding, your dentist might advise fewer visits.

It's crucial to talk to your dentist about your oral health requirements and adhere to their advised plan for examinations and cleanings. Regular dental cleanings and examinations can keep your teeth and gums in good condition and help you avoid future dental issues.

When should I see my healthcare provider? 

You should see your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

    ▪Toothache or pain in your mouth: If you have persistent pain in your teeth or gums, you should see your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems.
▪Bleeding or swollen gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, or if they are red, swollen, or tender, you should see your healthcare provider. These could be signs of gum disease.
▪Loose or missing teeth: If you have loose or missing teeth, you should see your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of advanced gum disease or other dental problems.
▪Persistent bad breath: If you have persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing, you should see your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of gum disease or other oral health problems.
▪Mouth sores or lesions: If you have any sores or lesions in your mouth that do not heal within two weeks, you should see your healthcare provider. These could be signs of oral cancer or other serious conditions.
▪Difficulty chewing or swallowing: If you have difficulty chewing or swallowing, you should see your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of a dental or medical problem.
▪Jaw pain or clicking: If you have pain in your jaw or clicking when you open and close your mouth, you should see your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or other dental problems

It's important to see your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms. Early detection and treatment of dental problems can help prevent more serious complications in the future.

Conclusion

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for preventing dental and oral health problems. Regular brushing and flossing, using mouthwash, and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, good oral hygiene can also lead to a healthier and more confident life. It's important to develop good oral hygiene habits early on in life and to continue them throughout your lifetime.