Kirby dentists play a large part in keeping their patient’s teeth clean and healthy. At regular check up appointments they can conduct checks for gum disease and tooth decay and address any problems that may arise. They can also carry out deep cleans to offer further protection against any dental conditions. They are also trained to look for the signs of oral cancer as early detection of the disease could make the difference between life and death. These are just some of the reasons why it is important to see your dentist on a regular six-monthly basis. However, your dentist can only help you so much, and a large part of effective oral hygiene is left for you to carry out at home. Daily oral hygiene is perhaps the most important aspect of keeping your teeth healthy.
A good daily hygiene routine should ideally involve brushing at least twice a day for three minutes. Try to use a soft-bristled brush with a small head. This has been proven to remove more bacteria and plaque, which are responsible for tooth and gum disease. Ideally you should be brushing after meal times, as this is when plaque is at its most damaging. This may not always be practical so try to drink water after meals to rinse your mouth of any remaining food particles.
It is also recommended that you floss at least once a day. This will help to remove plaque and trapped food from between the teeth which can often be missed by tooth brushing. It is often the small areas between the teeth that are the starting point of a lot of decay so it is very important you keep these as clean as possible. Good daily oral hygiene can include far more than just brushing and flossing. Ask your dentist to find out more about how to look after your teeth.
Tags: gum disease, oral hygiene