Dental hygiene

Dental hygiene refers to the practice of maintaining the mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy to prevent dental disease. It involves regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Overview

Dental hygiene is an essential part of overall health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a variety of dental and medical problems such as gum disease, infection, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Importance

Maintaining good dental hygiene is important for several reasons. It helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It also contributes to a healthy-looking, bright smile, which can boost self-confidence and self-esteem.

Practices

The primary practices of dental hygiene include:

• Tooth brushing: This is the most common method of cleaning the teeth. It is recommended to brush at least twice a day, in the morning and before bed.

• Flossing: This helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line where a toothbrush cannot reach.

• Dental check-ups: Regular visits to a dentist or dental hygienist for a check-up and professional cleaning are essential.

• Diet: Eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental Hygiene Profession

The dental hygiene profession involves the licensed dental hygienist performing procedures such as patient screening, oral health education, cleaning, and preventive services.

See Also

• Oral hygiene
• Tooth brushing
• Flossing
• Dentist
• Dental disease
• Gum disease