The most important factor in managing good oral hygiene is brushing and flossing daily. One should brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Plaque forms on teeth every twenty four hours, which …show more content…
Good oral hygiene should start at a very young age and continue throughout one’s lifetime. There are many options when choosing a toothbrush. They come in different sizes and shapes with hard, medium, or soft bristles. Soft bristled and a small head are the preferred, however everyone is unique and different and may require a specific type. Powered toothbrushes are also an option depending on personal preference and needs. One should also decide on a toothpaste that best fits them. Some toothpastes are very basic and simple, while others may have added benefits such as, whitening, mouthwash strips, flavorings, different textures, to name a few. Along with brushing, daily flossing is equally important. Flossing removes plaque and debris from in between the teeth where …show more content…
The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist regularly. Visits should be at least once a year depending on insurance, dental office, and patient’s needs. Usually, once established with a dentist, lower risk patients visit annually and higher risk for dental problems patients visit more frequently. It is important to start bringing children to the dentist at an early age. This allows the child to become comfortable, and begin good oral habits early on. Teenagers should also visit the dentist regularly as their teeth and mouths continually grow and change. It is important to be able to detect a problem early and possibly prevent it. Continuous preventive care can help aging adults keep their real teeth longer. Pregnant women are also advised to visit the dentist regularly for exams because pregnancy can sometimes take a toll on a woman’s mouth. Exams and radiographs are performed on patients to detect any unusual abnormalities such as tumors, sores, impacted teeth, cavities between the teeth, swollen lymph nodes, etc. Seeing a dentist does not only benefit ones oral health, but could potentially save someone’s life by detecting early signs of disease. Choosing a dentist may be difficult but that should not deter someone from managing their dental health. There are many choices and options that go along with taking care of the mouth and it can be overwhelming. A dentist will be able to help you