Health gums, beautiful smile
Dental Hygiene
Importance of Healthy Gums
Our gums are the foundations and support for our teeth and having healthy gums stems from having good oral hygiene. Several studies have shown that poor gum health has been linked to other conditions like heart problems, diabetes and even alzheimers! We understand how important prevention of disease is to improving your dental health and overall health.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
To maintain good oral health, it is recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth using interdental brushes or floss to remove bacteria.
Good dental hygiene begins at home and is one of the most important aspects of maintaining oral health. It helps prevent problems like gum disease, tooth decay, and reduces the risk of complications around crowns, bridges, and dentures. Simply put, it ensures everything lasts longer.
Professional Dental Cleaning
The second most important thing is having a regular clean by a professional like a dentist, hygienist or therapist. Most patients visit a hygienist or therapist every 6 months, but you should see them more frequently if you have gum disease (usually 3 or 4 monthly). Our dental hygiene visits start with a gum health check and review of your oral hygiene routine.
The whole mouth is cleaned using ultrasonic technology and an advanced polishing Airflow technology (a comfortable, less sensitive, gentle clean using enhanced flavoured polishing powder and warm water). This is a leading technology in dental hygiene and as well as removing stains more effectively, it leaves the teeth feeling clean, whiter and brighter. It’s also safe to use on crowns, veneers, fillings, braces and implants.
Dental Hygiene FAQs
It’s recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste for optimal protection.
To floss effectively, use a clean section of floss for each tooth, gently sliding it up and down between the teeth and under the gumline. Be careful not to snap the floss as this can damage your gums.
Interdental brushes have been shown to be the most effective way to clean between your teeth, and is more effective than flossing. The general principle is, use an interdental brush where it fits, and floss where a brush does not fit. The interdental brush should feel ‘snug’ and not loose when it goes between the teeth.
Most people should visit a dentist or hygienist every six months for a professional cleaning. However, if you have gum disease or other dental issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits (every 3-4 months).
Early signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and gum sensitivity. If left untreated, it can lead to more serious conditions like receding gums and tooth loss.