The maintenance of oral cleanliness. Removal of microbial plaque with brushes, dental floss, and other devices, with the possible adjunctive use of antiplaque agents. Also known as oral physiotherapy and plaque control.
The practice of personal hygiene of the mouth. It includes the maintenance of oral cleanliness, tissue tone, and general preservation of oral health.
The practice of keeping the mouth clean by gargling and mouthwashes.
A group of procedures necessary for keeping the mouth and teeth clean and healthy. The primary aim of oral hygiene is to remove food particles and plaque from the teeth daily to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The bacteria in the plaque can create acid and other substances that can cause cavities, damage the gums, and harm the bone surrounding the teeth. Brushing the teeth thoroughly at least twice daily and using dental floss every day are the only ways to get rid of plaque. Generally, the brush should be moved from the gum area to the teeth, cleaning the teeth from the roots out to the tips of the teeth, and gently massaging the gums to stimulate circulation. The toothbrush should be replaced every 3 months.
Preventive measures to avoid pathological conditions of the teeth and oral cavity. These include discontinuing the use of tobacco products, including “smokeless tobacco” (snuff); brushing the teeth and using dental floss daily; and removal of impacted food debris. Oral hygiene may be performed with manual or mechanical devices such as toothbrushes, floss, and mechanical toothbrushes. Edentulous people with partial restorations or false teeth should be sure that their appliances fit properly and are kept clean. Removal of plaque by a dental hygienist at least twice each year is also important for prevention of periodontal disease.
Practices employed to maintain oral health and minimize the chances of tooth decay, gum issues like gingivitis, and unpleasant breath are referred to as oral hygiene. This encompasses consistent and meticulous brushing and flossing to eliminate plaque—a tacky layer composed of saliva, bacteria, and food particles that forms on teeth. Agents that disclose plaque accumulation can be utilized to expose problematic areas. Dentures, on all sides, are brushed and soaked in cleansing solutions.
Skilled intervention for the removal of calculus (a mineral buildup on teeth) and stubborn plaque through scaling and polishing is typically performed by a dentist or dental hygienist as part of a regular examination. In cases of periodontal disease, more frequent treatment may be necessary.