A day of good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth at least twice and flossing at least once. Additionally, you may use an anti-bacterial mouth rinse after brushing, rinse your mouth with water between meals, and chew sugarless gum throughout the day.

For some people, keeping their mouth clean may seem time-consuming and laborious. However, the advantages of good oral care outweigh any inconveniences. Here are a few benefits of good oral hygiene.

Less Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs when acids inside the mouth demineralize the tooth enamel. As the enamel is dissolved, holes form in the tooth, resulting in cavities. If a cavity is large or deep, a dental infection may develop as oral microbes invade the innermost layer of the tooth. The infection may even spread to the jawbone, causing further complications.

Good dental hygiene helps remove the bacteria that produce oral acids. Dental plaque is mixture of bacteria and food particles. As the plaque is brushed or flossed from the teeth, bacteria that release acid as a digestive product, such as Streptococcus mutans, are removed. The number of harmful bacteria in the mouth may also be reduced by rinsing with a mouthwash that contains an antimicrobial agent, such as chlorhexidine. Additionally, rinsing the mouth with water throughout the day can flush away bacteria and food particles, while diluting bacterial acids.

Minimal Dental Sensitivity

Dental sensitivity may result as the enamel of the teeth is dissolved or wears away. Once a significant amount of enamel is removed, the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed, allowing greater access to the sensitive dental nerves. Dental sensitivity may be minimized by brushing with a toothpaste that contains desensitizing agents, such as potassium nitrate. The toothpaste should also contain fluoride, which can remineralize the teeth to preserve the tooth enamel.

Better Breath

By regularly removing the bacteria and leftover particles of food from the mouth, you can enjoy fresher breath. Anaerobic oral bacteria release volatile sulfur compounds that cause halitosis. Also, particles of food that are allowed to remain trapped between the teeth can rot, emitting a foul odor.

Lowered Risk of Disease

Good oral hygiene lowers your risk of gum disease, but it may also reduce your chance of a systemic condition. Proper oral care is associated with a lower incidence of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and dementia. If you have concerns about the health of your teeth or gums, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your local area.

For more information, contact a dentist like Pavlakos Vasilios Bill J DDS PC Dentist today.