Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene or oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your teeth and mouth clean. It can be maintained by brushing your teeth twice daily, regular flossing and visit to a dentist once in six months. Some of the symptoms of bad dental health include bleeding gums, bad breath and pain in the teeth.

Benefits of Dental Hygiene:

Proper dental hygiene prevents one from getting mouth-related diseases like cavities, gingivitis and periodontitis. A cavity is an infectious disease which damages the entire structure of teeth while gingivitis is a gum-related disease which is caused by development of plaque in the gums due to exposure to bacteria.

It also prevents erosion of teeth which can be caused by consumption of acidic foods and drinks. It also prevents bad breath which can create embarrassing situation for you in front of your friends, family and colleagues.

Maintenance of Dental Hygiene:

Foods that help maintain Oral or Dental Hygiene:

Foods to be avoided to maintain hygiene:

Excessive consumption of sugar -– be it directly or indirectly in the form of sweets, cold drinks or chocolates -- is one of the major causes of dental cavities and erosion. Limiting your sugar intake may decrease your chances of getting oral disorders.

Foods that stick to the teeth should also be avoided as they decrease the level of Ph in teeth which is necessary to prevent development of plaque or cavities.

Consumption of tobacco, which is considered to be one of the major causes of oral cancer, should be avoided. Alcohol too should be consumed in limited manner as acid in them encourages development of plaque.

Prevention is the best policy in the case of maintaining your dental hygiene. Maintain your dental hygiene and smile to your heart's content and let everybody around envy you.