Why is oral hygiene important?
The main purpose of brushing your teeth is to remove the plaque formed on teeth. Dental plaque is a bacterial film on the teeth. If not regularly removed, it begins to accumulate, and can lead to tooth decay and gum diseases. If aggravated, this can also result in tooth loss, bone degeneration & spread of infection to other parts of the mouth.
Some shocking facts about oral hygiene:
- 72% of kids, 86% adults & 95% senior citizens suffer from tooth cavities & tooth decay*
- ~80% of the Indian population suffer from gum diseases
- More than 50% of Indians opt for self-medication for their dental treatment or prefer taking advice from someone other than a dentist (e.g. chemists)
- Only 51% of Indians use a toothbrush & toothpaste to brush their teeth
- Only 28% Indians brush their teeth twice a day
These statistics not just prove that oral hygiene may not be a priority for most Indians, but also emphasise on the fact that most Indians are not concerned about their oral hygiene, until they face dental issues. There is a lack of awareness on the importance of oral health. At the same time, a large section of the population doesn’t have enough access to information on dental health. We at Spicta, believe that if we can bridge this information gap, a lot of dental problems could be nipped in the bud.
Why is Dental Hygiene Important to your overall Health?
Studies have shown a direct correlation between oral health & other medical conditions. While the research in this field is still under progress, current studies have shown that poor oral health can contribute to the below:
- Diabetes
- Endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart's chambers and valves)
- Pneumonia and other respiratory diseases triggered when oral bacteria reach the lungs
- Pregnancy Complications
- Cardiovascular Diseases, including clogged arteries and stroke
Why are regular dental check-ups important?
Regular visits to a dentist would help to detect any oral conditions or health complications caused by oral diseases before they aggravate. Timely check-ups, examinations and cleaning would help to maintain a good level of oral hygiene throughout the year. It would also prevent tooth loss; Now, nobody would like to smile with a lost tooth, would they? While the ideal interval for getting these check-ups done is 6 months, we would recommend at least annual check-ups to start with. After all, something is better than nothing!
How to Take Care of Your Oral Health
Everybody should make it a habit to practice good oral hygiene every day. Maintaining good oral hygiene not only helps in maintaining a clean and healthy mouth, but it also stops harmful bacteria from leading to multiple problems in your body.
Here are some basic tips for good oral hygiene
- At least twice a day, morning and night, brush your teeth with a toothbrush with soft bristles and reliable, Organic toothpaste. Set a time limit of two minutes for each brushing session. If you're a visual person, setting a timer may be useful.
- After brushing your teeth at night, floss between your teeth to get rid of any plaque or food that remains. Additionally, flossing helps to strengthen the gums, which is important for good oral health.
- Use alcohol-free mouthwash to refresh breath and remove any residual debris after brushing and flossing.
- Change your toothbrush every 3 months. If you have experienced any illness, then you need to change your toothbrush too.
- For routine dental cleanings and preventive oral care, visit your dentist. On average, this should be done twice a year or every six months unless more regular visits are advised.
- Avoid smoking and using tobacco.
- Eat a balanced meal with less added sugar and avoid drinking sugary beverages.
Preventing health problems through oral hygiene
The key to overall good health is maintaining a healthy and happy oral microbiome. Fortunately, you can significantly change the balance of microorganisms in your mouth and begin your journey to achieving overall body health with only a few basic daily oral hygiene habits.
Spicta can help you out if you’re just getting started, with an overall plan of action to get that confident smile and treasure it with time too. Visit us today to explore what we have to offer!
FAQs:
What is the importance of oral hygiene?
Normally the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
What is the most important oral health?
Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque. Visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures. Do not use any tobacco products. If you smoke, quit.
What are the types of oral hygiene?
In addition to brushing and flossing, your daily routine can include mouthwash, oral rinses, and possibly other tools, such as a water flosser.
What should be an oral hygiene routine?
Brush and floss your teeth and gums twice daily. Use a mouthwash. See your dentist every 6 months. Drink plain water throughout the day and avoid soft drinks, energy drinks and fruit juice.
Report source:
*As per multi-centric oral health survey conducted by Ministry of Health -WHO India collaborative bi annum program 2007-08 (figures are approximate)
https://www.nhp.gov.in/national-oral-health-programme_pg
Additional references
https://www.viome.com/blog/how-your-overall-health-starts-in-your-mouth
