Good oral hygiene is vital for healthy gums and teeth. Preventive dentistry, such as regular visits to Bondi Family Dentist and proper at-home care, gives you the best chance for long-lasting oral
health and a beautiful smile.
What is Oral Hygiene?
Oral hygiene is the practice of maintaining a clean and disease-free mouth. It includes brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dental professional.
Why is Oral Hygiene Important?
Good oral hygiene leads to preventive care, helping to reduce the incidence of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
By taking care of your oral hygiene, you are also caring for your entire body. Poor oral hygiene can lead to infections in the mouth that may travel to other parts of the body. Infections in the mouth can enter your bloodstream and carry bacteria to other areas. Research demonstrates a link between gum disease and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for long-lasting overall health.
What Other Health Conditions are Linked to Poor Oral Health?
Research shows that gum disease can contribute to:
- Stroke
- Cardiovascular disease
- Pneumonia
- Endocarditis
- Pregnancy complications
Additionally, some health conditions can increase the risk of developing gum disease, including:
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- HIV/AIDS
- Parkinson’s disease
If you or a family member has any of the conditions listed above, please book an appointment with us at Bondi Family Dentist so we can help promote and support overall health by introducing an appropriate oral hygiene routine.
What are the Signs of Poor Oral Hygiene?
Your body will give you warning signs when your oral hygiene has been affected. Keep an eye out for:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Tooth decay
- Gum recession
- Toothache
- Ulcers
- Swelling
How Can I Improve My Oral Hygiene?
There are many ways you can improve your oral hygiene. The following general oral hygiene instructions can provide a good baseline. However, we always recommend booking an appointment with us at Bondi Family Dentist, as our dental professionals can create a personalized routine for you.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoridated toothpaste (with a minimum of 1200 ppm of fluoride for adults and 600 ppm for kids). Additionally, replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or when the bristles become frayed.
- Floss once a day at night before brushing. Gently curve the floss around each tooth, going slightly beneath the gum line.
- Brush your tongue with your toothbrush or use a tongue scraper.
- Avoid smoking and other tobacco products. Smoking is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease (irreversible gum disease) and oral cancer. If you would like to quit, please ask us for treatment options that can help.
- Visit us regularly at Bondi Family Dentist. Regular dental exams and cleanings are crucial for maintaining good oral health. While most people can manage with visits every six months, those who are more susceptible to cavities, gum disease, or other dental issues may require more frequent appointments.
Keep in mind that the most effective oral hygiene routine is one you can maintain consistently. Discuss your needs with us at Bondi Family Dentist, and we can help create a personalized oral care plan tailored to you.
What are the Advantages of Good Oral Hygiene?
While we can repair decayed teeth or stabilize gum disease, it’s always better to prevent problems before they arise. This is where good oral hygiene becomes invaluable. It offers a range of benefits, such as:
- A beautiful smile
- Healthier teeth and gums
- Fresher breath
- Lower risk of heart disease and other health concerns
- Reduced need for dental work
- Lower risk of oral cancer
Therefore, preventive dental care is often more affordable than restorative and emergency dental care. Good oral hygiene will save you time and money in the long run.
Give us a call at 0293695647 to schedule your check-up and hygiene appointment.
