Oral hygiene simply refers to the practices that keep the mouth clean and healthy and so prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The main aim of good oral hygiene is to prevent plaque. Plaque actually consists of food and bacteria, which forms a sticky film on teeth. When plaque is not removed, it creates acids that decay the tooth and cause cavities and gum disease. When plaque hardens, it becomes tartar, which needs to be removed by a dentist.

 

There are many ways to remove plaque. Toothbrushing and flossing daily remove plaque. Antiseptic mouthwashes can also help kill some of the bacteria. Fluoride does not remove plaque but is important in making tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to decay. Fluoride is found in toothpaste, some drinking water, and in some dental treatments. One of the most important ways to maintain good oral hygiene is to visit a dentist at least twice a year. Your dentist can tell you whether you are brushing and flossing effectively and can recommend treatments such as fluoride treatments or sealant application which can help prevent decay.

 

Everyone needs to practice good oral hygiene. Infants’ gums and first teeth should be kept clean with a damp cloth or very soft toothbrush. Once teeth emerge, only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be used, since fluoride is not safe for infants. The elderly also need to maintain excellent oral hygiene, even if their teeth have been replaced with dentures. Dentures need to adjusted by a dentist regularly to help prevent gum problems.

 

Brushing is basic part of oral hygiene. You should brush at least twice a day with a toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. It is even better to brush after every meal and snack. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle against the gums and brush back and forth, using short strokes, taking care to clean every tooth. Clean the inside surfaces of teeth by holding the brush vertically. Move the brush up and down against each tooth. Clean the chewing surfaces of the teeth by holding the brush flat and moving it back and forth. Finish off your brushing by brushing the tongue in a back-to-front sweeping motion.

Flossing is also an essential component of oral hygiene. For best results, floss one a day. Simple gently ease the floss between two teeth and rub it gently up and down several times. You will need to floss between every tooth, using a new section of floss for each tooth.