Proper oral care includes care of teeth, gums, jaw bone,tongue and other soft tissues. A well maintained oral hygiene should comprise of-
Brushing twice daily: in the morning and before bed time at night
Flossing regularly
Rinsing by mouthwash to clean the areas not accessible to brush
Clean your tongue with a tongue cleaner
Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Always use a soft bristle brush and along with cleaning the front side of the teeth, focus on brushing the inner parts as well.
Bleeding gums while brushing could be a sign of gingivitis. Do not ignore it.One must get scaling and deep cleaning done at least once in a year.
Sugary foods contain carbohydrates, the main culprit for causing cavities. They breakdown into starch and sugars, which stick to the teeth and cause bacterial degradation of the teeth. Avoid refined and starchy food as much as possible. Whenever taken,it should be follwed by thorough rinsing with water.
Age diminishes one’s smile due to wear, chipping and discolouration. It can be restored by a well executed smile design.
Clicking of jaws, even if not painful, is not normal. It is an indication of improper functioning of Temporomandibular joint, or TMJ; the joint which guides the movement of lower jaw. One must get it assessed.
Recurrent headaches, neck and jaw pain, could be due to improper occlusion or bite of teeth. Get a dental check up done in such conditions.
It is a general notion that well aligned teeth has a role in enhancing the appearance aesthetically only. But the fact is, they serve a larger purpose -they help in maintaining a good oral hygiene; prevent food lodgement which may lead to caries and bad breath; ensures proper distribution of biting forces and reduces risk of trauma to teeth.
A healthy, well balanced diet and plenty of water intake is a must for a healthy oral cavity and overall well being.
Missing teeth should be replaced immediately, to restore normal function and occlusion. Empty spaces will eventually lead to disruption of proper alignment and transfer of biting forces over other teeth, leading to serious problems.
