The most widespread tooth diseases, caries and periodontitis, are directly related to inadequate oral hygiene. Food residues which are not removed by brushing are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, and are the main causes of caries and inflammation of the gums and bones around the teeth. As the saying goes: “Prevention is better than cure”, so oral hygiene is the main argument for preserving and maintaining oral health.
The most common instruction that is repeated when it comes to oral hygiene is “circular brushing”, but what does it really mean? Is it enough just to brush with a toothbrush? What is the function of dental floss? How often should floss be used?
1. Cleaning the spaces between the teeth is just as important for oral health as cleaning all your teeth with a classic, “big” brush. The interdental space can be cleaned with various oral hygiene aids – floss, interdental brushes, interdental rubber sticks or toothpicks. As much as 40% of the tooth surface is inaccessible to cleaning simply by a toothbrush alone, which is why it is absolutely essential to use one of the tools for interdental space hygiene. The interdental space should be cleaned at least once a day, preferably in the evening and before brushing all the teeth with a toothbrush – in this way, all the deposits are “pushed” out of the interdental spaces and furthermore, the toothpaste foam cleanses them with its detergent properties.
2. After cleaning the interdental space, all external and internal surfaces of the teeth should be cleaned with a toothbrush. It is generally not recommended to use hard a toothbrush so not to mechanically irritate and damage the gums. Medium-hard and soft toothbrushes are a good choice, but the brushing technique itself and the pressure applied are equally important. Horizontal (“left-right”) and vertical movements (“up and down”) with a brush should be avoided, as this type of action may cause the gums to recede. A proper brushing technique involves brushing the teeth of each jaw separately, so that the brush hairs are bevelled towards the edge of the gums and then making small, circular movements with the brush. Therefore, you should clean both the external and internal surfaces of the teeth with minimal pressure! Watch the demonstration video for the correct brushing technique on YouTube, at the following link:
3. Although they are not a common and established part of the oral hygiene regime, dental fluids play a very important role in keeping the oral cavity clean. The use of mouthwashes, as mentioned above, allows for additional hygiene of the interdental space, reaches other corners which are more difficult to clean and even the tongue. Depending on the composition, they may contain compounds that prevent plaque, cavities, reduce tooth hypersensitivity or act antiseptically (antibacterial). They are recommended, without exception, for all age groups.
What is your oral hygiene regime? Are you unsure about some of the steps described? When visiting our clinic, feel free to talk to one of our dentists if you have any questions or for any recommendations regarding oral hygiene – we are sure to have an answer to any question you may have!
