Oral Hygiene
Good Oral Health requires good oral hygiene.
Our Dental Hygienists have 3 main roles
1. The treatment of periodontal disease and the preventable “gingivitis” which leads to early tooth loss. This is caused by plaque, the sticky film composed of harmful bacteria which adheres to teeth. If left untreated the gums swell, begin to bleed and the teeth will eventually loosen.
2. The removal of calculus (tartar) and staining from the teeth by the process of scaling and polishing.
3. The instruction of our patients in good oral hygiene techniques and dietary habits, vital to preserving Dental health.
Our Dental hygienists work under the prescription and instruction of our Dental surgeons so please speak to your Dentist to make an appointment.
Early signs of gum disease:
- Red, swollen gums.
- Bleeding gums, especially when cleaning.
- Bad breath.
Gum disease can often go unnoticed until it is quite advanced.
Gum disease, ‘gingivitis’, is a treatable and most importantly preventable with good oral hygiene measures and regular dental check ups.
Left untreated gingivitis will worsen and lead to more advanced gum disease known as periodontitis. This can lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
If you have any of these early signs of gum disease see your dentist or hygienist.
Steps to good oral hygiene
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque deposits. This will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
- Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gums and brush with small circular movements. Make sure you brush all of the surfaces of the teeth including the biting surfaces.
- To help freshen your mouth and remove further bacteria brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper.
- Clean the spaces between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach daily. This can be done with dental floss, interdental brushes or flossing devices such as an Air flosser.
- Mouthwashes can be useful to provide extra fluoride or antibacterial agents but do not replace the need for good tooth brushing and interdental cleaning. Mouthwashes should be Alcohol free where possible.
- See your dentist or hygienist regularly.
