Importance of Oral hygiene

You would be surprised at the number of people who have confessed to not brushing regularly. This might shock some of us, while others might stare away guiltily, but many people do not realize the importance of brushing and flossing regularly. For them, it is a nuisance or a tiresome chore that is to be done as quickly as possible. This attitude can lead to some serious consequences.

Dental floss and brushing

Eating is what sustains us from day to day, keeping us healthy and providing our body with raw material for growth and repair. However, eating can take a serious toll on our teeth and gums, not only through the act of chewing but also because leftover food between the teeth and the warm, wet conditions in the mouth make it a great breeding ground for germs. Once these bacteria find a food source, they start to eat and breed, producing large quantities of acid in the process. The result is dental plaque, which is characterized by the yellow coloring you see on teeth. Initially, the plaque is quite soft, but it starts to harden within 48 hours, eventually forming rock hard tartar which is very difficult to remove. Tartar provides a base for bacteria colonies leading to gum diseases and accelerated tooth decay.

The only sure cure to this condition is regular brushing, at least twice a day. The act of brushing our teeth helps to remove any food particles caught between the teeth. It also helps to remove the plaque while it is still soft and easy to wipe off, leading to whiter teeth free from tooth decay. Chemical such as fluorides within the tooth paste also help to strengthen the teeth further, protecting them from bacterial attacks leading to cavities. Furthermore, brushing also helps to stimulate the gums, keeping them healthy by increasing the blood flow in them, thereby providing a firm and strong base for the teeth.

However, the brush is limited to only cleaning the surfaces. The bristles can not clean effectively in the cavities between the teeth, making them breeding grounds for bacteria. This is where flossing comes into play. By using dental floss, you can remove any stray pieces of food between the teeth or lying in accessible areas near the base of the teeth. The act of flossing not only removes food, but also helps to keep the gums healthy. In fact, medical scientists have noticed a direct relationship between flossing and prevention of diseases like gingivitis. By flossing once a day, you can ensure that your mouth is clean of unwanted bacteria which can lead to painful gum disease and bad breath.

Brushing and flossing is quite serious business that is required to be done with precision and punctuality. The technique you use to floss and brush is also very important, so contact your dentist to learn how to brush correctly to ensure that there is no build up of bacteria in your mouth. By brushing and flossing regularly, you can ensure that your teeth will last you a lifetime.