Oral hygiene is one of the only aspects of our health over which we have almost total control. No matter how fit and healthy we are we are always at risk of any number of internal or external health conditions. But when it comes to our teeth it is our own actions that determine how healthy they are.
The two main threats to the health of our teeth are tooth decay and gum disease. Both of these conditions can be particularly nasty and incredibly painful, as anyone who has suffered a toothache can tell you. Yet they are both completely preventable by sticking to a disciplined oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft bristled brush will remove plaque, the substance responsible for much of the inflammation in gum disease and for the erosion of tooth enamel that causes tooth decay. Backing up this brushing with flossing will remove the plaque, bacteria and trapped food particles that may be lodged or hiding in the difficult spaces in between the teeth. These spots are especially important to clean, as they are often the place where decay or disease first starts.
Cleaning and brushing effectively will also prevent bad breath, of which nine out of ten cases are caused by poor standards of oral hygiene. Dentists also recommend that some patients can benefit from a special tongue cleaner to remove bacteria from the warm and moist groves of the tongue.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, always remember to make a regular six-month visit to a Leeds dentist. Even the healthiest teeth still need to be checked regularly for signs of decay and infection. This will back up all the good work you do at home and help to keep your smile looking beautiful for years to come.
Tags: gum disease, oral hygeine, tooth decay, toothache
