Oral Hygiene Oral hygiene refers to the practice of keeping the mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy to prevent dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath from developing. It involves regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene habits play a key role in maintaining oral health. It is important because it helps maintain strong teeth, prevents infections, and supports overall health as well; poor oral care has been linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes.How to Maintain Good Oral HygieneThe key to maintaining your oral hygiene is consistency. The following steps are required to keep your gums and teeth in good health: Brush Your TeethTo keep up with your oral hygiene, it's essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Most people know they should brush their teeth, but may not think it's a big deal if they miss a brushing here or there. If you don't brush regularly, plaque and bacteria can build up on your teeth. It is important to brush at least twice daily, especially before bed, to remove any food particles from the day from your mouth. FlossBe sure to floss daily to remove plaque between teeth, (preferably before bed). There are various types of dental floss and flossers available nowadays. If you need instructions on how to properly floss your teeth, do not hesitate to ask. MouthwashUsing mouthwash daily can help to kill bacteria. It also provides fresh breath. DietA healthy diet low in sugar and acidic foods also helps prevent cavities. Sugar on the teeth eats away at the enamel, causing a breeding ground for cavities to develop. Vegetables help your teeth by providing essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium for strong enamel and vitamin C for healthy gums. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery act as natural toothbrushes, helping to clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes harmful acids. Leafy greens, rich in fiber and folic acid, support gum health and reduce the risk of gum disease. Eating a diet rich in vegetables contributes to overall oral health and helps prevent cavities. Drinking plenty of water also helps wash away any food particles from the teeth and gums, and helps keep your mouth moist. Regular Dental AppointmentsRegular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Wildhorse Dental are important for detecting and treating any issues early. We recommend you come in and see us every six months for a dental cleaning and exam. We will also take X-rays to get a more detailed look into your teeth, gums, and jawbone. What Happens if You Don't Take Care of Your Oral Hygiene?If you don't have good oral hygiene, plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth, leading to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Over time, untreated dental issues can result in tooth loss, painful infections, and even more serious health problems. Poor oral hygiene can also affect self-confidence and overall well-being. Regular dental care is essential to prevent these complications. Our team here at Wildhorse Dental is here to help. Contact us at 636-537-0447 today with any questions you may have about your oral hygiene. |
Office HoursMonday: 8:00am-5:00pm Tuesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Wednesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Thursday: 7:30am-3:00pm Fri‑Sun: Closed |
