Dental Care – What is an Optimal Oral Hygiene Routine?

Dental care is very important because the gums and teeth are directly connected to the blood stream and your teeth should be your first line of protection for good health. Researchers have found what appears to be a connection between gum disease, heart disease, stroke and even premature births.

Normally, in the case of gum disease is the body’s inflammatory response to the presence of bacteria associated with dental plaque. The theory suggests that inflammation in the gums become inflamed and unchecked, the infection of the gums is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the infection may have an impact on other inflammatory diseases that occur in the body.

While this relationship may exist, studies have not positively identified the reason for how or why it occurs. The practice of oral hygiene is important because it prevents the accumulation of dental plaque. It makes the point for two of the most common diseases found in the mouth, tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental plaque is a soft whitish deposit that forms on the tooth surface that is formed when bacteria (germs) combines with food and saliva. Plaque contains many types of bacteria and can only be removed by practicing good oral hygiene.

Regular oral hygiene visits to the dentist are vital to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy, and to prevent potentially serious problems. This article will help you learn how to keep your smile looking its best using the best oral hygiene practices.

• Visit the dentist twice a year. If you smoke, have gum disease or diabetes, consider more frequent visits.
• Brush your teeth after meals and snacks with an electric toothbrush if possible because it aids in removing plaque and massages the gums.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and reduce bacteria.
• Talk to with your dental hygienist at your next cleaning to learn where you had the most build-up of plaque so you can focus more on those areas.
• Brush your tongue. It is highly recommended by dentists because bacteria hides in the bumpy surface of the tongue. The bacteria feeds on the remnants of food which is the main cause of bad breath or halitosis.
• Stay away from sugary drinks and treats. Sugar promotes the growth of plaque. Eat foods high in calcium and Vitamins C and D.
• Use mouth rinses that  contain chlorhexidine, an anti-microbial agent, which aids in the removal of excess bacteria.

The control of plaque is the key to maintaining healthy gums and also overall good health. It is up to you to follow the golden rules of good oral care: regular visits to the dentist, reduce the amount of sugary foods you eat, brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily.