Seeing a dentist or oral health therapist regularly will help keep your mouth in top shape; this will also allow for the professional to watch for developments that may point to other health issues. A dental exam can also detect poor nutrition and hygiene, growth and development problems and improper jaw alignment.
It is important to remember that your oral hygiene plays a major role in the maintenance and promotion of your oral health. Regular checkups and cleans can be effective in the removal of dental plaque, which can result in the prevention or reduction of dental caries and gingivitis. Our current oral hygiene measures—appropriately used in conjunction with regular professional care—are capable of virtually preventing caries and, in most cases, periodontal disease.
The challenge that dentists, hygienists and therapists face is the effective delivery of oral hygiene promotion. At The Dentist Cairns Dental Group, our delivery of these measures, combined with your motivation as the patient, will promote good oral health.
At home, you can practice good oral hygiene:
Taking care of your teeth and gums is a lifelong commitment. Starting early and instilling good oral hygiene practices can help ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. The Dentist Cairns Dental Group is here to partner with you in promoting and maintaining your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Brushing your teeth at least twice daily helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
You should floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and help prevent gum disease.
The best way to brush your teeth is to use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush and brush your teeth in a circular motion. Be sure to brush the front, back, and top of each tooth. You should also brush your tongue to help remove bacteria that can cause bad breath.
In addition to brushing and flossing, you can also help keep your mouth healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks. You should also visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
Good oral hygiene is vital to preventive care. By removing plaque, you can prevent the development of cavities and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which brushing and flossing cannot remove. Once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
Your home care routine of brushing and flossing is important, but it is not enough to remove all the plaque from your teeth. You also need to have regular professional cleanings. During a professional cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to remove the tartar from above and below the gum line.
To learn more about oral hygiene and preventive care, reach out to The Dentist Cairns Dental Group. We would be happy to answer your questions and help you develop a plan for maintaining good oral health.
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