Oral hygiene essentials
By Panos Perperidis
Oral hygiene is a cornerstone of overall human health. Beyond its contribution to aesthetic appearance, good oral hygiene is directly linked to the prevention of various diseases and the maintenance of general health. When analyzing the importance of oral care, its multifaceted impact on an individual's life becomes evident.
Oral hygiene is defined as the daily and effective removal of dental plaque using primarily mechanical and, to a lesser extent, chemical means, with the goal of ensuring prevention, treatment, and maintenance of therapeutic results. The patient must understand that they are the key to the success of their treatment and must not only actively participate but also dedicate sufficient time.
The first step toward effective oral care is regular and proper tooth brushing. It must be done at least twice a day—morning and night—using an appropriate soft or medium toothbrush and a fluoride-containing toothpaste. This practice removes bacteria that can cause cavities and helps prevent the buildup of plaque that may lead to periodontal disease. Fluoride also strengthens the surface of the teeth. Detailed instructions for proper oral hygiene through brushing include:
Position the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle to the gums and apply gentle, vibratory back-and-forth motions without moving the brush from the targeted area.
Brush all tooth surfaces, including the buccal (outer), lingual (inner), and occlusal (chewing) surfaces.
Avoid applying too much pressure while brushing. Excessive force is not needed to remove microbial plaque, as it is only loosely attached to the dental tissues. On the contrary, aggressive brushing may damage the gums. The secret lies not in pressure, but in correct technique.
Don't forget to gently brush the tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath. Special tongue-cleaning tools are also available on the market.
In addition to tooth brushing, interdental cleaning is equally essential and can be performed using dental floss or interdental brushes. This process removes food debris trapped between the teeth and below the gumline, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. Although often overlooked, interdental cleaning is a vital component of oral hygiene and should be done daily.
Following that, using an appropriate mouthwash can complement your daily oral care routine. Mouth rinses may help reduce plaque, cavities, and gingivitis, providing an extra layer of protection for teeth and gums. However, it’s important to emphasize that mouthwash serves as an adjunct and does not replace brushing and flossing—it merely supplements them. For the proper choice of mouthwash, always consult your dentist.
Beyond daily care, regular dental visits are a critical part of oral hygiene. A dentist can assess the condition of your teeth and gums, perform a more thorough cleaning, and offer personalized advice for improving your routine.
In addition to preserving oral health, proper mouth care has beneficial effects on general health. Numerous studies have linked dental care with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even arthritis.
In Conclusion:
Mouth care should not be seen merely as a duty, but as an investment in our health and well-being. By consistently applying the basic and correct practices—such as brushing, interdental cleaning, and regular dental checkups—we can maintain high levels of oral health. This positively impacts not only the condition of our teeth but also our overall health.
References:
A.K. Tsamis, I.K. Karousis: Periodontology in 100 Steps, ISBN: 978-960-452-258-3
Tsami-Pandi A., Panis V.: Periodontology Lab Exercises, 6th Semester, Dental School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 2008
Oulis K.: Caries Prevention, Pediatric Dentistry I, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 2005
Apostolopoulos A.: Preventive Dentistry, Symmetria Publications, Athens, 2003