Tips for effective oral hygiene maintenance

Why is oral hygiene important?

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health of the entire mouth and preventing many dental problems.

By brushing regularly and using dental floss, we remove plaque - a sticky layer of bacteria that forms daily on tooth surfaces and around the gums. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which is harder to clean and can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis). In more advanced cases, this may progress to periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss.

In addition to protecting against cavities, proper oral hygiene helps prevent bad breath and supports the natural whiteness of the teeth. Inconsistent hygiene can also lead to mouth ulcers and discomfort.

Cleaning the tongue is equally important, as it helps prevent buildup and the appearance of a white-coated tongue.

Consistent oral care, combined with regular dental checkups, is key to long-term oral health and preserving your smile.

What is used to maintain oral hygiene?

To help our patients maintain proper oral hygiene, we recommend the use of:

Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Dental floss or interdental brushes
Oral irrigator
Mouthwash

Using an oral irrigator is especially important because a standard toothbrush cannot effectively clean between the teeth. The oral irrigator uses a stream of water to reach and remove debris between teeth, helping to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, essential for keeping gums healthy.

We particularly recommend the use of an oral irrigator for patients with dental crowns and dental implants, as the water jet can clean hard-to-reach areas around these restorations, prevent plaque buildup, and support the longevity of crowns, implants, and prosthetic work.

An oral irrigator is a great addition to your hygiene routine because it reaches areas that brushes and floss can’t. It effectively removes food particles and plaque between teeth and around crowns and implants, where thorough cleaning is vital for gum health. Regular use reduces plaque buildup and helps prevent gum inflammation and periodontal disease.

Additionally, the oral irrigator contributes to fresher breath and a lasting feeling of cleanliness throughout the day.

Oral hygiene procedure

To maintain proper oral hygiene, we recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed, using all the necessary tools for thorough cleaning of the oral cavity.

Start by brushing your teeth - using a toothbrush and toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle towards the gums and use gentle circular motions to clean all surfaces of the teeth - outer, inner and chewing. Brushing should last at least two minutes.
Use dental floss - to remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth. Gently guide the floss between each tooth and below the gum line, curving it into a “C” shape for a more thorough clean.
Interdental brushes - ideal for cleaning wider spaces between the teeth, especially if you have crowns or implants. Insert the brush between the teeth and gently move it back and forth.
Oral irrigator - use it after brushing and flossing. Its stream of water reaches areas that a toothbrush can't clean, especially around crowns, implants and deeper interdental spaces, helping to rinse thoroughly.
Finish with mouthwash - to further reduce bacteria, refresh your breath and protect your gums.

This thorough approach to oral hygiene helps prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar, contributing to the long-term health of your teeth and gums.