What is mouth care and why is it important?
Mouth care encompasses all practices aimed at maintaining optimal oral hygiene. This includes brushing, flossing, mouthwash and regular visits to the dentist. Good oral hygiene prevents dental diseases such as cavities and gingivitis, and also contributes to better overall health. Oral bacteria can affect other parts of the body, including the heart and lungs.
How often should I brush my teeth?
We recommend brushing at least twice a day, in the morning and evening, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Effective brushing takes about two minutes. Brushing removes plaque, a film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth and can cause cavities and gum disease.
What type of toothbrush is best for mouth care?
Dentists generally recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging gums and tooth enamel. Electric toothbrushes are also effective, as they can remove more plaque than manual brushes. It's important to replace your toothbrush every three months, or as soon as the bristles become worn.
Is dental floss really necessary?
Yes, flossing is essential for complete mouth care. Floss helps clean the spaces between teeth and below the gum line, where the toothbrush can't reach. Daily flossing helps prevent interdental cavities and gum disease.
Are mouthwashes effective?
Mouthwashes can be a useful complement to mouth care, but they are no substitute for brushing and flossing. They can help reduce plaque, fight bad breath and prevent gum disease. It's best to choose a mouthwash containing fluoride to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
What kind of diet promotes good oral hygiene?
A balanced diet is crucial to good oral care. Limit consumption of sugars and acidic foods, which can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities. Choose crunchy fruits and vegetables, dairy products, lean proteins and high-fiber foods. Drinking plenty of water also helps maintain good oral hygiene by stimulating the production of saliva, which neutralizes acids and helps eliminate food debris.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gum disease, or gingivitis, is often painless in its early stages, but there are warning signs to watch out for. These include red, swollen or bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. Persistent bad breath and loose teeth are also signs of advanced gum disease. If you notice these symptoms, consult a dentist as soon as possible.
How can bad breath be prevented?
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, certain foods, or underlying health problems. To prevent it, brush your teeth and tongue regularly, floss daily and drink plenty of water. Antibacterial mouthwashes can also be effective. If bad breath persists, consult your dentist to identify and treat the underlying cause.
Are whitening toothpastes safe?
Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives and chemical agents to help remove surface stains from teeth. They are generally safe for everyday use, but excessive use can damage tooth enamel and cause tooth sensitivity. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not overuse these products.
How often should I see my dentist?
For optimum mouth care, we recommend that you see a dentist at least once a year for a thorough examination and professional cleaning. Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up, detect dental problems at an early stage and provide personalized advice on maintaining good oral hygiene. For people at high risk of dental disease, more frequent visits may be necessary.
What is tooth decay and how can it be prevented?
Tooth decay is a progressive breakdown of tooth enamel caused by acids produced by bacteria in plaque. These acids attack the enamel and can lead to cavities. To prevent cavities, adopt a rigorous oral care routine that includes regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing and regular visits to the dentist. Reduce your intake of sugar and acidic foods, and opt for a balanced diet.
What role does fluoride play in mouth care?
Fluoride is an essential mineral for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities. It helps remineralize demineralized areas of enamel and inhibits the production of acids by plaque bacteria. Fluoride can be found in toothpastes, mouthwashes and fluoridated drinking water. To maximize the benefits of fluoride, use dental products containing fluoride and consult your dentist for professional fluoride applications if necessary.
What impact does smoking have on oral health?
Smoking has adverse effects on oral health, including an increased risk of gum disease, cavities and oral cancer. It also contributes to bad breath, stained teeth and slower healing after dental procedures. To maintain good oral hygiene, we strongly recommend you stop smoking and consult a dentist for advice and treatment.
How to manage tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity manifests itself as pain or discomfort in response to stimuli such as hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods. To manage sensitivity, use a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth, adopt a gentle brushing technique with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoid highly acidic foods. Consult your dentist to identify the cause of sensitivity and receive appropriate treatment, such as fluoride varnishes or desensitizing agents.
What are the benefits of dental sealants?
Dental sealants are resin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to prevent cavities. They form a protective barrier that prevents food and bacteria from accumulating in the grooves and crevices of the teeth. Sealants are particularly beneficial for children and adolescents, but can also be used in adults at high risk of cavities. Sealants are a quick, painless procedure performed by a dentist.
