The importance of Dental Hygiene

March 20, 2018, saw us celebrating World Oral Health Day, an important day in the calendar of any dental clinic. It’s a day to celebrate mouth health and highlight how vital oral hygiene is. While the official day has been and gone, we figured any time is a good time to discuss the importance of looking after your teeth and gums.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row]

By A Better Smile

Good oral health is more than having a smile worthy of being in a Colgate commercial. Neglecting your teeth leads to leads to oral diseases which can infiltrate every aspect of your life, such as being able to enjoy crunchy foods and cold treats without pain, smiling without embarrassment, and your health. It also may affect your ability to be able to speak, taste and swallow. Some studies have even discovered a close correlation between poor oral hygiene and oral cancers. (By now you’re likely to be mentally calculating how long it’s been since you last brushed your teeth). We’re not trying to scare you, simply trying to educate you on the importance of flossing, brushing and regular dental check-ups.

Saliva plays an important part in the health of your mouth. It rinses away food particles and neutralises acids, which destroy tooth enamel. Traditional over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, painkillers and antihistamines can affect the amount of saliva your mouth produces. This can also play a part in the deterioration of your teeth. So if you regularly take medications, it’s imperative you make oral hygiene a priority.

So what does good oral hygiene consist of?

1. Brushing a minimum of twice a day
2. Replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or as soon as it starts to look shaggy
3. Avoiding sugary drinks and lollies (and if you do indulge, rinse your mouth out afterwards)
4. Using sugarless gum after meals if you don’t have access to a toothbrush
5. Avoiding cigarettes
6. Booking regular dental check-ups with A Better Smile Dental Centre

If it’s been awhile since your last dental check-up, book a consultation with the friendly team at A Better Smile Dentist, located in two convenient Sydney locations. From the time you walk through our front doors at reception, during and after your treatment, you’ll be made to feel at home. There’s no judgement, interest-free payment plans and we provide sedation options for nervous patients.

Book a consultation with A Better Smile Dental Centre and receive expert advice from our dentists. We will help you choose the best treatment or suggest an alternative option that will suit your smile.