Allsmiles

Dental hygiene is the proper care and maintenance of the mouth and teeth so that cavities, gum disease and similar conditions are avoided. The result is a mouth free of food particles and unhealthy levels of bacteria. Added benefits include fresh breath and clean-looking teeth.

Regular brushing and flossing – at least twice a day – will go a long way in promoting overall oral health. But proper maintenance should also include regular visits to the dentist for check ups and professional cleanings. Fluoride that is administered in a dentist’s office is extremely successful at promoting cavity-free mouths.

Without proper dental hygiene, plague accumulates on the surface of teeth and, if left, can promote the emergence of other conditions like tartar, gingivitis (swollen or bleeding gums), tooth decay and gum disease. Symptoms include cavities and teeth stained yellow or brown, bad breath and swollen, bleeding gums. In addition, teeth can become ultra-sensitive or loose. Eventually, teeth can become dislodged and fall out altogether. Not only is the resulting gap unsightly, but missing teeth can lead to even more dental conditions that may require extremely evasive procedures to correct.

Healthy eating is another critical component of a well-planned dental hygiene regimen. Dairy, meat and vegetables all contribute greatly to strong teeth and healthy gums. Foods that are high in fiber are also useful in that they promote the body’s production of saliva that acts as an anti-bacterial wash for the mouth. It can also help flush tiny food particles that have become lodged against teeth or gums.

Problems arise when a person’s regular daily diet consists of high concentrations of foods that are high in sugar or acidic. Sweets, sodas and other sugar-heavy foods and drinks can cause tooth decay. Acidic foods can have a similar effect on the enamel. People with dentures or bridges are especially susceptible to dental hygiene problems and should take extra care to maintain proper health.

Dental hygienists perform much of the professional cleaning work that can be undertaken at most dentists’ offices. A slew of services are frequently offered and many are covered by typical insurance policies which removes a great deal of the burden associated with adequate dental care. Without insurance, most standard dental hygiene procedures will range from about $50 to more than $1,000 depending on the level of care involved.

Thorough oral evaluations can uncover undiagnosed conditions and lead to an actionable treatment plan that will address root causes and include sufficient restoration procedures if required. Dental hygienists can also remove tartar and stains and apply preventative treatments such as fluoride and sealant. Dental hygienists are prohibited from conducting surgery but they can perform root planning and scaling procedures.

Dental hygienists must comply with varying rules and guidelines in the individual states where they practice. However, in general, dental hygienists much earn a diploma from a dental hygiene educational program such as ones often offered at community colleges and technical schools that are properly accredited. Most of these programs will take at least two years of study to complete. In conjunction with graduation, students will be required to receive a license in the particular state where they plan to practice.