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Good oral hygiene practices involve measures that we follow to keep our teeth and mouth fresh, clean, and healthy. It involves at-home dental care practices and visiting the dentist every six months for dental checkups. 

What do good oral hygiene habits include?

• Brushing the teeth using fluoride toothpaste twice a day
• Flossing the teeth 
• Use of an ADA-approved mouthwash
• Limiting the sugar intake
• Intake of healthy and nutritious food
• Professional dental cleanings

Oral hygiene habits - Benefits

Did you know that brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day can prevent periodontal disease, bad breath, and tooth decay? You can also use a mouthwash to freshen your breath and remove food particles and plaque from your mouth.

Here are the major benefits of good oral hygiene habits:

• Good oral hygiene helps prevent cavities.

Cavities are one of the most common oral health issues, and the only way to prevent them is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing regularly, and using a mouthwash, helps remove plaque buildup and bacteria.

• Good oral hygiene helps prevent gum disease.

Gum disease is not usually painful at first, so you may not realize you have it until your gums start bleeding. Once the gum disease is advanced, you may experience sensitive teeth, bad breath, and loose teeth. In addition, gum disease has also been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and other serious health issues.

Fortunately, you can prevent gum disease with good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time and floss daily. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to avoid damaging your gums. Also, visit your dentist regularly for routine cleanings, exams, and x-rays.

• Good oral hygiene helps prevent bad breath.

Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath. When food particles and bacteria are not cleaned from the mouth, they can accumulate in the throat, causing a persistent odor. Additionally, the smell of some foods, such as garlic and onion, can linger in the mouth.

• Good oral hygiene helps keep your teeth white and bright.

White teeth are associated with good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth removes food particles and plaque that causes tooth discoloration. 

• Good oral hygiene helps you keep your teeth as you age.

Unfortunately, tooth loss is common as people age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 22% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have lost all of their permanent teeth.

While tooth loss is common, it’s usually preventable. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing your teeth once a day goes a long way toward preventing tooth loss.

If you have already lost your teeth, you can still keep your mouth healthy. Partial dentures, full dentures, and fixed bridges help replace missing teeth.

Oral hygiene is important for a healthy smile. To know more about how to maintain good oral hygiene, contact Dr. Ronald F. Jacob, DMD, at (386) 445-6111 or visit our office located at 17 Old King’s Road N, Palm Coast, FL 32137.