Oral Hygiene in Indianapolis, IN

Brushing and flossing are routine oral hygiene habits that can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing helps clean away food particles and plaque from tooth surfaces. Flossing helps clean between teeth and along the gum line, where decay and gum disease tends to start.

Why Are Good Oral Hygiene Habits Important?

By brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist every six months, you can prevent serious oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay. Cavities and gum disease are major risk factors for tooth loss. Good oral hygiene habits are important not only for your oral health but also for your overall health and well-being. 

What Causes Tooth Decay and Gum Disease?

Cavities are caused by bacteria that produce a sticky film called plaque on the surface of your teeth. The bacteria feed on the sugar and starches in your diet and produce an acid that attacks tooth enamel. Enamel erodes when acid is present, causing cavities to develop over time.

Plaque contains bacteria that can also irritate your gums. Brushing regularly is the best way to remove plaque, while flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.

How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease?

You can maintain your oral hygiene and health and prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease by brushing and flossing your teeth daily and by visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and dental cleaning. 

Brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings help remove plaque, the sticky substance that builds up on your teeth and regular checkups help the dentist identify and address dental issues early on. 

Here’s how you can maintain your oral hygiene and health: 

• Brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time
• Floss your teeth once a day
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Visit the dentist every six months
• Avoid tobacco products

What Are the Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene?

Good oral hygiene habits promote a healthy, beautiful smile, as well as overall health. Here are a few benefits of good oral hygiene habits:

1. Fresher Breath

Bad breath or halitosis is caused by food particles in the mouth, as well as bacteria that build up on the teeth and tongue. By brushing and flossing your teeth every day, you can prevent food particles from sticking to your teeth and tongue and decrease your risk of halitosis.

2. Lower Risk of Cavities

Brushing and flossing your teeth every day prevents plaque buildup, which can easily lead to cavities. Plaque buildup occurs when food particles and bacteria become trapped on and between the teeth. Brushing and flossing your teeth every day is the best way to prevent the accumulation of plaque.

How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?

You should visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and examinations. This ensures you get professional cleanings to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, as well as dental exams that can detect tooth decay and gum disease in their earliest stages when they are easiest to treat.

To find out more about the dental services we offer at Allisonville Dental Centre, call (317) 547-5766 or schedule a consultation online. You can also visit us at 2811 E 46th St, Indianapolis 46205.