1. What are the best daily practices for maintaining oral hygiene?
· Brush twice a day, use a soft brushed tooth brush and fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes, once in the morning and once before bed.
· Floss daily, helps in remove plaque and food particles between teeth where brushes cannot reach.
· Use mouthwash, especially mouthwash helps reduce plaque, bad breath and gum diseases.
· To remove thrush which is present on the tongue with the help of tongue scraper which helps in removing bacteria and prevent bad breath.
· Change your toothbrush every 3 months
· Get a dental check-up every 6 months, even if there’s no pain.
2. What causes bad breath and how can it be prevented?
· Food items like onion, garlic
· Tobacco products which cause unpleasant mouth odour.
· Maintaining poor hygienic condition in mouth and teeth.
· Dry mouth
· Infections in the mouth like gum disease, mouth sores, tooth decay.
These are the major causes for bad breath also called as halitosis and it can be prevented by following the above measures.
3. How often should I visit the dentist for a routine check-up?
It is necessary to visit the dentist every 6 months for a routine check-up. These regular visits are essential for maintaining good oral health and catching any potential problems early. During a check-up, your dentist can identify issues like cavities, gum disease, or even signs of oral cancer before they become serious. Additionally, your dentist can offer personalized advice on brushing techniques, flossing, and dietary habits that support strong teeth and healthy gums. Even if you feel fine, these check-ups play a vital role in keeping your smile healthy and long-lasting.
4. How does oral health affect overall body health?
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, which allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation elsewhere. This chronic inflammation has been linked to serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even respiratory infections. For example, people with uncontrolled gum disease are more likely to develop cardiovascular problems, and those with diabetes may find it harder to control blood sugar if their oral health is poor. In summary, taking care of your teeth and gums doesn’t just protect your smile, it’s a key step toward maintaining your entire body’s health and well-being.
Overview:
Maintaining good oral hygiene involves brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, using mouthwash, tongue scraping, and regular dental check-ups. Bad breath can result from poor hygiene, dry mouth, tobacco use, or infections, but can be prevented with consistent care. Visiting a dentist every 6 months helps detect issues early. Oral health is closely linked to overall health, with gum disease contributing to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections—making daily dental care a critical part of total body wellness.