Proper oral hygiene is the basis of healthy teeth and gums and an essential part of overall health. There is a lot of advice related to dental care: what toothbrushes to use, how often to brush teeth, what products to avoid, etc. But how do you know what's really important? In this article, we have gathered the six most frequently asked questions about oral hygiene.
1. How do you choose the right toothbrush?
One of the most important tools for maintaining oral hygiene is a toothbrush. Choosing the right toothbrush is the first step to effective hygiene. Three main parameters should be considered when choosing a toothbrush: the stiffness of the bristles, the size of the head, and the type of handle.
A soft toothbrush is recommended for most people because it removes dental plaque and food debris without damaging the enamel and gums. The head should easily reach all parts of the mouth, including the back teeth. The handle should be comfortable and provide a secure grip.
2. Do I have to floss every day?
Many people know about dental floss, but not everyone understands its importance for daily use. Dental floss is an accessory for cleaning teeth and an essential element of hygiene. It helps remove food debris and plaque between teeth that a regular toothbrush can't reach. Failure to floss daily can cause bacteria to build up and eventually lead to gum disease and cavities.
3. How often should you visit the dentist for preventive treatment?
Regular visits to the dentist are one of the main factors in maintaining oral health. But how often should you book an appointment? On average, it is recommended to visit the dentist twice a year. However, the frequency of visits may vary depending on the condition of the teeth and gums. For example, people prone to gum disease or tooth decay may need more frequent visits. Your dentist will help you determine the optimal visit schedule.
4. What is more critical: brushing your teeth in the morning or in the evening?
Many people are confused about when it is best to brush their teeth: in the morning, in the evening, or after every meal. Brushing your teeth in the morning and in the evening is important in its own way.
Brushing in the morning helps get rid of bacteria that has accumulated overnight, while brushing in the evening helps remove plaque and food residue that has accumulated during the day. The greatest attention should be paid to brushing the teeth in the evening because saliva is secreted more slowly during sleep, and bacteria multiply more actively if food particles and debris remain on the teeth.
5. Does diet affect dental health?
Dental health depends not only on proper hygiene but also on what we eat and drink. How does diet affect the condition of the teeth? Diet plays an important role in the health of teeth and gums. Foods rich in sugar and acids can erode enamel, contribute to tooth decay, and cause gum damage.
At the same time, foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins D and C help strengthen enamel and maintain gum health. It is recommended to limit the consumption of sugary drinks, snacks, and acidic foods and include more fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
6. Should I brush my tongue, and how should I do it correctly?
The tongue is a part of the oral cavity that is often overlooked during hygiene procedures. But does it need to be cleaned, and how do you do it properly? Tongue cleaning is an important part of oral care that helps reduce bacteria, prevent bad breath, and maintain overall oral health.
To do this, you can use a special tongue scraper or the back of a toothbrush if it has a grooved surface. Tongue cleaning should be done daily after brushing your teeth with gentle movements from bottom to top.