Maintaining good oral hygiene is a significant contributory factor in having a healthy smile, and also for overall health and wellbeing. One of the main reasons why maintaining good oral hygiene is important is to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque and bacteria can build up in the mouth over time, and if left untreated, can lead to cavities, tooth decay and inflammation of the gums. Brushing and flossing regularly can help to remove this plaque and bacteria, thus helping to prevent these conditions from developing.
Another important aspect of maintaining good oral hygiene is to have regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. During these appointments, a dentist or dental hygienist Richmond can identify any oral health issues and suggest a course of action to address these problems before they become more serious. They can also provide professional cleaning (called scaling and polishing) to remove any residual plaque or tartar that may have built up. It is possible for this build-up to occur even when good oral hygiene routines are in place, so it is always recommended keeping up with regular dental check-ups.
In addition to practising good dental hygiene at home, making healthy dietary and lifestyle choices can promote good oral health. This includes eating a balanced diet and avoiding smoking.
What should I do if my teeth are crooked?
We all know that having crooked teeth can make it more difficult to adequately clean them at home. Hygienists are able to offer advice as to how to maintain the best oral hygiene routine possible in many circumstances. Not only those with crooked or overcrowded teeth, but also those with fixtures such as braces can benefit from using different implements when cleaning their teeth. Interdental brushes may be recommended to you by a dental professional as tools which could help you to improve your brushing routines. This is just one example of adaptations which can be made depending on your needs. Of course the most suitable techniques for the individual are case dependent, and so an appointment with a hygienist or dentist is paramount to find out what might work most beneficially for your needs.
Can straighter teeth help to improve oral hygiene?
In short, yes! Straight teeth are often easier to clean and maintain than crooked or overcrowded teeth. This can lead to a reduction in the build-up of plaque and tartar, which are known causes of tooth decay and gum disease. If you have crooked or overcrowded teeth and wish to improve how thoroughly you can clean them then pursuing straighter teeth might be a route to go down.
There are several different ways to straighten teeth, such as traditional metal braces (with visible brackets and wires), clear aligners (Invisalign) and lingual braces (hidden braces). Each method has its own set of benefits. Your dentist can help you to decide which method is best for you based on your specific needs and goals and after conducting a full examination.
It’s important to note that straightening your teeth can take some time and effort, but improved oral hygiene is not the sole benefit of going down this route.
