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What is oral hygiene?

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your mouth Visit Official siteclean and disease-free. It involves brushing and flossing your teeth as well as visiting your dentist regularly for dental X-rays, exams and cleanings.

Why is oral hygiene important?

Oral hygiene is preventative care. This means you can stop oral health problems — such as cavities, gum disease, bad breath (halitosis) and other issues — before they start by taking good care of your teeth and gums.

Oral health is also linked to whole-body health. For example, if an infection is present in your mouth, your bloodstream can carry the bacteria to other areas of your body, leading to other health concerns like heart disease and stroke. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is an important part of long-lasting overall health.

What conditions are linked to oral health?

Research shows that gingivitis and periodontitis can contribute to certain health conditions, including:

• Cardiovascular disease.

• Stroke.

• Endocarditis (infection of your heart’s inner lining).

• Pneumonia.

• Pregnancy complications, such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Conversely, there are certain health conditions that can have a negative impact on your teeth and gums, including:

• Diabetes.

• Osteoporosis.

• HIV/AIDS.

• Alzheimer’s disease.

If you or a loved one has any of the conditions listed above, ask your dentist how to promote and support overall health through proper oral hygiene.

1 Buying the right toothbrush

The first step is to buy a toothbrush that's right for you. adapted to your needs. Some are designed for adults, others for children. Generally speaking, we recommend using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. This way, you'll be able to to clean all the nooks and crannies of your mouth, as well as the interdental spaces. Remember to change your toothbrush every three months for optimum efficiency. This is a strictly personal accessory.

#2 Prefer fluoridated toothpaste

A good oral hygienetary also requires the use of a fluoride-enriched toothpaste (between 1000 and 1500 ppm), except for children and adults with contraindications. This trace element strengthens the crystalline structure of enamel and helps prevent the onset of plaque or cavities. Manufacturers offer a range of toothpastes for every need: whitening, anti-tartar, for sensitive teeth or fragile gums, for example.

#3 Performing the correct brushing movements

We advise you to brush your teeth in front of a mirror to help you master your brushing technique. Follow the same order to make sure you don't forget any part of your mouth. your mouth. Brush the upper and lower jaws separately. Brush in circular, rolling movements from gum to tooth. Brush at a 45-degree angle. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, as you risk irritating your gums. Electric toothbrushes are a good alternative to manual toothbrushes for achieving the ideal rotation.

#4 Respect brushing time

To allow the active ingredients in the toothpaste to work, you need to brush your teeth for 2 to 3 minutes. To make this time time seem shorter, don't hesitate to listen to music. The ideal brushing time is that of a song.

#5 Brush teeth 2 times a day

In theory, it's advisable to brush your teeth after every meal to remove plaque. Over time, this plaque develops into tartar, which requires scaling by a dentist. In practice, however, it's very difficult to brush 3 times a day. The World Health Organization recommends brushing your teeth in the morning after breakfast and in the evening after dinner. Be careful, as certain acidic foods can weaken enamel. It's best to wait 30 minutes after eating before brushing.

#6 Using dental floss

Flossing is an effective way of removing food residues between teeth. This is because the bristles of a toothbrush are generally unable to reach these interstices. Simply cut 30 to 40 centimetres of dental floss and pass it gently between each of your teeth to avoid injuring the gums. You can do this at least once a day. day. Dental floss holders are also available for easy handling.