There are many perceptions of what the most crucial prerequisite to a first date is. However, most would argue that it is dental hygiene. Dental hygiene refers to the maintenance of an individual’s teeth, gums and mouth. It is one of the most accepted norms in most societies, be it using the bark of the neem tree in pre-modern civilisations or the electronic toothbrushes and colourful mouthwashes available in most supermarkets.
A dentist in Ryde and other regions of Victoria offer several services, ranging from routine checkups to complex cosmetic dentistry. While the importance of dental hygiene is generally not questioned, it has a broader scope than just cavities and bad breath.
Poor dental hygiene affects the exterior of the oral cavity, thereby negatively affecting one’s overall well-being. Evidence suggests that bacterial infections in the gums can spread to the heart and cause arteries to clog, making dental hygiene imperative.
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Tips to ensure the cleanliness of teeth
The first step to improving oral hygiene is by choosing the right toothbrush. This step is crucial because a soft-bristled toothbrush gently exfoliates the build-up in the oral cavity while being gentle on sensitive gums. It plays a pivotal role in protecting the enamel, whereas medium and hard-bristle brushes help your morning routine feel cleaner but are ultimately more abrasive.
A toothpaste with at least 1,000 parts per million fluorides and an antibacterial mouthwash are essential for good oral hygiene. According to doctors, the correct routine is brushing your teeth twice a day at a 45-degree angle against the gum line in short circular motions and flossing after to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay and cavities.
For the best results, one should start brushing from the back of the mouth. This practice prevents gum disease and the development of cavities in the molars.
The effect of dietary decisions
It might be common knowledge, but avoiding sugary sweets is critical in maintaining the cleanliness of teeth. However, if soda or treats have been consumed, studies have found that waiting 30-60 minutes before brushing causes less wear on the teeth.
Additionally, coarse and fibrous fruits and vegetables (apples, pears, lettuce and celery) scrub the surface of the teeth and remove plaque build-up and lead to whiter looking teeth. These fruits and vegetables also take a longer time to chew. The built-up saliva helps neutralise acids that are corrosive to the teeth.
The government of Queensland has made a questionable decision by limiting the fluoride content in water. Citizens of Ryde and other parts of Victoria have since seen an increase in oral health issues up to 46% in the past years. As a result, one should consult a dentist in Ryde as a precautionary measure.
Dangers of ignoring dental hygiene
Oral hygiene is not just about having white teeth and good breath but is about taking care of the longevity of your teeth and stopping heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other conditions linked to gum disease. In addition to a daily cleaning routine and healthy eating habits, regularly cleaning and replacing your toothbrushes and throwing out frayed or expired products is of paramount importance.
Need for regular checkups
Regular dentist appointments for deep cleanings and checkups (including x-ray examinations) are critical to lifelong healthy dental hygiene. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) publication records that approximately 72,000 Australians were hospitalised for dental ailments that earlier treatment could have prevented. Early detection and treatment always lead to the best outcome.
For further details on dental hygiene and oral health in Australia, click here. In this article, we discussed the best methods to take care of dental hygiene.
