Dental Hygiene

At-home oral care tips

• Cleanse your entire mouth: Brushing your teeth is crucial but insufficient to maintain optimal oral health. Bacteria thrive in various areas of your mouth, including your gums, tongue, and roof. To effectively combat these oral bacteria, cleaning your entire mouth at least twice daily is essential. This comprehensive approach helps prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, reducing your risk of gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems.
• The importance of flossing: While brushing removes surface plaque, it can’t reach between teeth. Flossing removes food particles and plaque buildup in these hard-to-reach areas. Even if your teeth look clean, a buildup of harmful substances could lead to serious oral health problems. This is why flossing is so important. Regular flossing prevents tartar buildup and reduces the risk of gum disease.
• Regular dental checkups: Professional cleanings and examinations are essential for optimal oral health. Regular visits to your dentist and hygienist help remove stubborn plaque, detect early signs of problems, and provide expert guidance on oral care.
• Protect your teeth from harmful substances: Acidic drinks like coffee, soda, and alcohol can erode tooth enamel over time. To minimize damage, consider using a straw and limiting your consumption of these beverages. Smoking is another major culprit, staining teeth, weakening the immune system, and increasing the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why should I inform my dentist about my medications before a dental treatment?

   

You should inform your dentist about the medications you are taking. This is because many medicines have oral side effects, such as dry mouth, enlargement of gums, and inflammation of tissues in the mouth. Also, many dentists prescribe antibiotics and other medications that can interact with the ones you are already taking.

• At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?

   

Most children have their teeth emerging after six months of age. We advise taking your child to the dentist by the time they are one year old. This will help them get acquainted with dental treatments, reduce anxiety, and lead to lifelong good oral health.

• How often should I go for a dental cleaning?

   

This depends on your lifestyle, oral hygiene routine, and history of cavities or gum disease. Most people find that visiting the dentist for a routine dental checkup twice yearly works well.

• Does dental cleaning lead to teeth sensitivity?

   

It is normal to experience teeth sensitivity after a dental cleaning. You might experience gum bleeding and teeth sensitivity for up to a week after the treatment. If it persists longer, contact your dentist.