Importance of Good Dental Hygiene

Practicing good dental hygiene is easy. You must do three things. They are brushing your teeth, flossing and tongue cleaning. But many people don't make it a habit. Why can't they see the importance of mouth hygiene and realize the consequences of poor oral hygiene?

Ken Waddell D.M.D has the answer. He stated that brushing and flossing are the two most boring activities on earth. Because of that, people don't dedicate enough time to them.

Here are some of the reasons why practicing good oral hygiene and caring for your teeth and gums are important.

1. Neglecting to practice good dental hygiene is one of the major reasons for dental problems such as cavities and dental plaque. After you've eaten, some food particles will remain in your mouth. If they aren't removed, dental plaque will form and bacteria will start to breed and form acid. The acid will then damage the enamel protecting the teeth and cause cavities. One of the benefits of regular teeth brushing and flossing is that it will remove the leftover food particles in between or on the teeth and prevent plaque and tooth decay.
   
   
   
2. Certain beverages such as coffee, red wine and tea will stain teeth. Tobacco is another culprit that causes yellow teeth. If you don't brush your teeth regularly with stain removal or whitening toothpaste, the stains will build up. Having yellow teeth isn't a pleasant sight. If you can't quit smoking and give up coffee, brushing alone won't prevent stained teeth. You need to go for regular scaling for deep cleaning.
   
   
   
3. Gingivitis is a mild gum disease. Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that will destroy the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth and can lead to tooth loss. Both of these gum diseases are caused by poor dental hygiene. It starts with the formation of dental plaque, followed by gingivitis which will cause your gum to become inflamed. As the bacteria go deeper, your gum will develop periodontitis.
   
   
   
4. One of the possible causes of bad breath or halitosis is poor oral hygiene. Having bad breath affects your relationships with others and also your confidence and self esteem. Besides brushing and flossing, tongue cleaning is one of the ways to remove bacteria in your mouth. If these bacteria remain in your mouth, they will emit sulfur compounds and cause bad breath.
   
   
   
5. As a result of neglecting your oral health and taking preventive care, you'll have to spend more on gum disease treatment and also dental treatments which aren't cheap. And you'll also have to bear the pain and discomfort which can cause sleepless nights.

Here is a list of good dental hygiene habits to develop and maintain for healthy gums and teeth.

1. Brush your teeth a minimum of two times a day. It is really necessary to brush them when you wake up and before bedtime.
   
   
   
2. Make sure to clean your tongue and remember to floss.
   
   
   
3. If it is possible, brush your teeth after each meal. If it's inconvenient to do so, rinse your mouth thoroughly to remove food particles.
   
   
   
4. Certain foods and drink contribute to tooth decay. Try to eat less of foods that contain too much sugar and reduce coffee and tea because they are acidic.
   
   
   
5. If you wear a denture, remove it at bedtime and wash it with antimicrobial solution. It may also prevent oral thrush.
   
   
   
6. Visit your dentist regularly.

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