Why is it so important that we all practice good oral hygiene? As mentioned above, it keeps our teeth clean and our breath fresh. Everyone should know that it certainly does not stop there! While it is true that brushing removes plaque, prevents tooth decay, and also prevents gum disease, it plays an important role in the discovery of other issues, such as diabetes, osteoporosis, heart problems, oral cancer, dementia, tooth grinding, and vitamin deficiencies. By examining a swab of saliva, a dental professional can also check for other important health issues such as cirrhosis of the liver and Parkinson’s disease. While you may have initially thought that oral hygiene had to do with the health of the teeth and gums only, you should be aware that there are many conditions that have oral symptoms. A good oral hygiene routine can be beneficial to the entire body!

Every day, it is imperative to brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride-containing toothpaste that is approved by the American Dental Association. This should ideally be done in the morning and at night. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every two to three months. Rinse the mouth out with water after meals to get rid of food particles that can get stuck in between the teeth. Once per day, it is important to floss using the proper technique.

Take approximately 18 inches of floss and wrap it around both of your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches in the middle.

Move the 2-inch section in an up-and-down motion between each tooth.

Using a clean portion of floss with each tooth, make sure you gently clean beneath the gum line of each tooth.

Do not force the floss or cut away at the gums.

After brushing and flossing, be sure to use a mouth rinse in order to completely freshen the mouth and protect against tooth decay and gum disease. Choose an appropriate rinse that is approved by the American Dental Association, and be sure to gargle for at least 30 seconds for maximum results. By following these three steps each day, you will be removing bacteria and plaque buildup and preventing cavities. You will also be preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease, and many more serious health issues. What great reasons to practice good oral hygiene!

Unfortunately, many people do not realize the long-term effects of poor oral hygiene. It goes way beyond unpleasant breath and a bad taste in your mouth! Poor oral hygiene can be devastating to your entire body. By constantly neglecting your teeth and gums, you put yourself at risk for:

Complications with pregnancy, such as pre-term birth or low birth weight

Increased risk of heart attack or stroke

Poor oral hygiene leads to sensitive gums that bleed easily, as well as tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. This leads to more serious issues that have a negative impact on your overall health.

It is important to visit the dentist for a routine checkup every 6 months. For those who may be wondering what to expect at a dental visit, it is quite simple. A visit to a new dentist usually starts with an evaluation of health history. The patient will then receive a thorough cleaning of the teeth when the dental hygienist scrapes below the gum line to remove any buildup. Your cleaning will also include polishing and flossing. If necessary, a patient will also have x-rays taken. This allows the dental professional to check for impacted teeth, abscesses, tumors, and other issues that they may not otherwise see. The dentist will also perform a visual examination of the mouth, to check for any problems that may need to be addressed. The patient should take this opportunity to tell the dental professional if they are experiencing any unusual issues or problems, discomfort, or anything that needs to be further examined.

While the cost may vary depending upon factors such as location and whether the patient has dental insurance coverage, typically, you can expect to pay an average of $75-$150 for a routine dental visit. Keep in mind that this may only cover the cost of the cleaning. If additional dental work is needed, such as a root canal or filling a cavity, the cost will almost certainly increase. Although a routine teeth cleaning appointment is needed twice a year, it is a small price to pay for the many advantages that it offers.

At Rosy Dental, we understand the importance of good oral hygiene. That is why we strive to exceed all patient expectations with our high standards and excellent quality of service. Our dental spa is comforting and relaxing and helps relieve any anxiety that patients may have. It actually helps many people look forward to their routine visit! Our services help to ensure preventative care that is tailored to the individual needs of each patient. We make everyone feel comfortable and at ease during their visit. Our teeth cleaning techniques and special ultrasonic machine are highly effective in removing plaque and tartar buildup, leaving each person with a clean, fresh mouth. Our staff is caring and professional, making you feel welcome every time you come into our office. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.