Why is Dental Hygiene Important?

Proper dental hygiene is crucial for achieving a radiant smile and ensuring long-term oral health. Adopting a proactive approach and implementing effective strategies can take your dental hygiene routine to the next level. In this article, we will explore five proven techniques recommended by experts to help you elevate your dental hygiene routine and achieve a dazzling smile that lasts.

1. Brushing Techniques That Make a Difference: 

Learn the art of effective brushing by using the correct technique. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions. Pay special attention to each tooth’s surface, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Remember to brush your tongue to eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath.

2. Master the Flossing Game: 

Flossing is a vital step that should not be overlooked. Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Make it a habit to floss at least once daily, gently gliding the floss between your teeth and the gum line. Regular flossing helps prevent gum disease and promotes healthier teeth and gums.

3. The Power of Mouthwash: 

Incorporating mouthwash into your dental hygiene routine can provide extra protection against bacteria and plaque. Look for an antiseptic mouthwash that fights germs and freshens your breath. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for the recommended duration before spitting it out. Remember, mouthwash should never replace brushing or flossing but complement them.

4. Don’t Skip Regular Dental Check-ups: 

Visiting your dentist every three to six months is vital for maintaining optimal dental health. Schedule biannual or quarterly check-ups to have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined. These visits help detect early signs of dental issues and allow for timely intervention. Your dentist can also provide personalised recommendations based on your unique dental needs.

5. Embrace a Tooth-Friendly Diet: 

Your diet plays a significant role in dental health. Opt for tooth-friendly foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. Drinking water throughout the day helps flush debris and maintain oral hydration.

Prevention is the cure!

Together our practitioners will develop a prevention plan for you. Ultimately, we want you to have the healthiest smile possible and avoid the dental work that inevitably comes from poor dental hygiene.

Common Dental Problems

Tooth decay and gum disease are the most common problems when our patients first come to us, so our prevention plans focus on improving dental health. Here’s how we help you to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

Dental hygiene advice

When you first come to see us, and throughout your treatment, we will guide you on dental care, including cleaning the mouth. We understand how busy people are these days, so we’ll give you a practical hygiene routine that is simple, realistic, and easy to fit into your day.

For more info on Dental Hygiene, read this article on Oral Hygiene Tips

Scaling and polishing

No matter how well you brush your teeth, there will always be tricky areas to clean, meaning plaque bacteria can accumulate and become impossible to remove through brushing alone.

We use scaling and polishing frequently in our dental treatment plans to remove tartar and the deposits that build up on teeth over time.
Why do you need to remove plaque? Plaque is mainly made up of bacteria, which feed on sugary food and drinks. Plaque bacteria produce acid as a waste product. This acid attacks the teeth, causing various teeth and gum problems, including bad breath and discolouration.

Scaling and polishing remove the hardened calculus, preventing plaque build-up and associated teeth and gum problems.

Fluoride applications and sealants

Fluoride applications and sealants are two effective treatments in the fight against dental decay. Our fluoride treatments provide extra protection against tooth decay.

We also use sealants where appropriate. Sealants are plastic coatings commonly used on the deep pits and grooves of the back teeth, which are more susceptible to decay. We’ll only use these treatments where appropriate to strengthen teeth and improve resistance to decay.

Dietary advice

The type of food and drink we consume can cause dental problems. Hidden sugars in so-called “healthy” drinks are one example of what we consume that can contribute to decay and excessive tooth wear.

We give sensible, realistic advice to enable you to avoid and reduce the problems certain foods can cause. It’s not just what you eat but when you eat it. We’ll help you better understand how to minimise any damage caused by the food you eat.

Conclusion: 

Elevating your dental hygiene routine is an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. By following these five proven strategies, you can enhance your dental hygiene practices and achieve a dazzling smile that lasts a lifetime. Remember, consistency and commitment are essential. Start implementing these techniques today and reap the rewards of improved dental health and confidence in your smile.

We believe in using a team approach to minimise the possibility of any invasive dental treatment. Our dentists and dental hygienists work together to get your teeth and gums in the best possible shape.

If you are looking for experienced dental hygienists and advice for dental care in Horsham, Southwater or other parts of Sussex, call us today to book an appointment. We are passionate about healthy mouths and teeth and want our patients to enjoy the best oral health possible. Our ethos is to prevent the problems that cause lengthy and expensive dental treatment.