Dental care encompasses a wide range of procedures aimed at ensuring that the mouth remains free from disease, infection and other gum disorders. Oral hygiene is essentially the process of maintaining one’s mouth free from infection and disease by regularly brushing and scraping between the teeth for prevention of tooth decay and bad breath. It is also important that daily oral hygiene be done on a routine basis to allow prevention of serious dental diseases and bad breath. In addition to regular dental care, certain circumstances such as pregnancy and diabetes may necessitate special care in the dental field.
A good dental health initiative starts with the basic needs of the individual. For example, poor oral health leads to cavities, gum disease, tooth loss and bad breath and these all adversely affect the recipients’ self-image. Therefore, a good oral health initiative begins from birth and continues throughout life. It requires that pregnant women take care of oral hygiene during pregnancy and during the first 6 months after birth. Pregnant women should brush their teeth twice daily before going to bed and then again after taking a meal. They should also floss daily and refrain from biting their tongues or fingernails.
For people who are suffering from periodontal disease, brushing and flossing everyday are insufficient as untreated gingivitis can lead to complications. Therefore, it is advisable for people who have gingivitis to visit their dentist at least once every 3 months for professional cleaning, fluoride treatment and Periodontal Treatment. People who suffer from halitosis should brush their teeth twice daily and floss daily. The dental hygienist will also teach them proper plaque removal techniques and how to maintain a healthy gums and tongue.
Those suffering from diabetes should visit their dentist every six months for professional cleanings and checkups. Diabetics need to have cleanings twice a year, preferably in the early spring and late fall, while those with plaque should have their teeth professionally cleaned every six months. Plaque and tartar accumulation on the teeth hinders dental health. Regular professional cleanings and checkups ensure that plaque does not become a serious health risk.
Maintaining a healthy mouth is one of the best ways to ensure overall health as the mouth plays a vital role in absorption of nutrients from the food we eat. However, in some cases, it can be difficult to keep a clean mouth especially when there is a lot of activity going on in the mouth. Therefore, it is important for everyone to brush and floss regularly to ensure that their teeth and mouth remains clean.
Although it is always better to see your dentist for routine dental care, it is advisable for everyone over the age of sixty to get a checkup at least once every six months to be on the safe side. In addition, seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning is a great way to prevent cavities. By following these preventive dentistry practices, you can ensure that you maintain good oral health. In the long run, you will be happy that you took the steps to keep your oral and dental care practices in good shape.
