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Oral hygiene … dentists constantly remind us not only of its great importance, but also of the massive, negative impact on the health of the oral cavity, if this vital issue is neglected.
Millions of bacteria find a comfortable home in the oral cavity, because it provides all the conditions they require to live well and thrive. Warmth, humidity and food are in ample supply. The metabolic activities of bacteria produces acids which de-mineralize the substances which make up our teeth.
So the goal of a good oral hygiene regime is to reduce the quantity of bacteria as much as possible, thereby reducing the acids produced by those bacteria.
The destructive action of bacteria is usually rapid and they also generate swiftly. Because of the speed of action and their ability to multiply at an enormous rate, we need to brush at least twice daily to reduce their number. Brushing alone however, is unlikely to be sufficient. If we rely solely on brushing we are apt to miss the proximal surfaces and the contact areas and points which also require cleaning. These uncleaned surfaces provide a prime area for plaque generation and a basis for the development of gingivitis and periodontitis. In order to achieve our goal of good oral hygiene, it is essential that these proximal surfaces are also cleaned by using dental floss and inter-dental aids and devices.
Primarily, plaque consists of bacteria in a matrix of protein. However, when it is combined with the minerals produced by saliva, food, or toothpastes, it calcifies to form calculus or tartar. Calculus along with gingivitis and periodontitis plays a major role in the production of bad breath (halitosis). If decayed teeth are present this makes the condition even worse, and eventually this combination may make people lose their smile and end up with a grim face.
The key to success in eliminating this grim face and substituting it with a wide smile is to jump up on the dental chair!
Visit your dentist and discuss your oral health and hygiene needs. Your dentist will help you to identify any problems and will assist you in managing or eliminating their causes. Working together with you, your dentist will help you to develop the tools to maintain good oral hygiene at home, between your regularly scheduled dental health checks.
Here are some tips to maintain good oral hygiene:
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- Brush your teeth at least twice daily
- Floss once daily
- Avoid eating in-between meals
- Avoid sticky foods or sweets and try to consume healthy non-acidic beverages
- Try to chew sugar-free gum after meals
- Visit your dentist each 6 months to assess your oral hygiene and dental health
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Modern dentistry is very different from the dentistry of your childhood. You may be pleasantly surprised by the options which are now available to you. Your dentist will be utilising the latest technology and techniques, in conjunction with ‘state of the art’ dental materials. Restorative dentistry in particular, has derived great benefit from these developments, starting from composite fillings, right through to Ceramic inlays or veneer ‘onlays’.
In many cases currently, even destroyed teeth can be reconstructed by the use of endo-dontic treatment (Root Canal Therapy) and aesthetic posts. The reconstructed teeth are covered by a crown, which nowadays is often made of metal-free ceramics. When completed, the teeth have a high degree of strength and aesthetic qualities which are truly remarkable. In addition, today’s high-tech dental materials and techniques may also be used with confidence in the construction of bridges, to restore a missing tooth or teeth.
Alternatively, if they are indicated, implants may be an excellent option to restore a missing tooth or teeth. Basically, an implant is a Titanium screw which is fixed in the jaw and acts as an abutment, to hold a crown or bridge. Implants are 100% safe and are associated with very high success rates - up to 95-100% in some cases. However, the success rates of the implants will be jeopardized if oral hygiene measures are inadequate. Poor oral hygiene may result in a peri-implantitis, and eventually, failure of the implant.
I do hope that I have given you a little insight into the wonderful possibilities available to you. Aesthetic dentistry is now so advanced, and it really is all about giving you a great confident smile.
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