A thorough dental hygiene routine is vital for your overall health and wellbeing, not just that of your teeth and gums.
Studies show a link between poor oral health and heart disease and high cholesterol levels, though the connection is not yet fully understood.
There’s a psychological aspect too – having a smile you feel happy to show creates a feeling of warmth and wellbeing, through the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Smiling also eases relationship and when others see your genuine smile, they are more likely to view you as trustworthy and friendly.
There are certain groups that good dental hygiene is even more crucial for: pregnant women are more likely to develop gum disease because of hormone changes and may also experience small, harmless growths on their gums. Frequent morning sickness can also cause tooth enamel to erode.
Smokers need to pay particular attention to oral health as tobacco stains the teeth, can cause bad breath and makes it more likely that you will develop gum disease.
Those with uncontrolled diabetes are also more likely to develop gum disease.
Here at Wimbledon Dental Care, we recommend all our patients have regular hygiene appointments. You should have a scale and polish cleaning with our hygienist every six months, and if you are in one of the high-risk groups indicated above, you may need to come in more often.
We also check for the early signs of oral cancer at our dental check-ups. Detected early, oral cancer can be treated successfully in most cases.
We see our patients’ dental hygiene as a team effort. We do our part with check-ups and cleanings, and you need to play your part with diligent mouth maintenance. After all, you are with your teeth every day; we only see them every few months.
At your hygiene appointment we can advise you on the best oral care routine for you, including:
- What brush to use
- Brushing technique
- Flossing and interdental brushes
- How to care for implants, crowns, dentures and other restorations
- Mouth wash
- Nutrition for healthy teeth
- Fresh breath tips
- Children’s oral care.