Visit dentist twice a year for oral hygiene, say experts

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 4

Everyone wants to have a great smile and good oral hygiene plays a very important role in it. Poor oral hygiene can lead to variety of dental andmedical problems such as gum disease, infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes and more. Regular checkups and cleanings can prevent these problems as well as provide good oral hygiene.

Dr Namita Budhiraja, professor and head of Dentistry at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital said proper brushing is required to keep teeth clean. She further advised to brush teeth at least twice a day to keep teeth clean and mouth should be properly rinsed with water after having a meal.

“Flossing your teeth at least once a day also helps in removing food particles that regular brushing cannot,” she said.

Dr Rita Rai, Professor of Dentistry, Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, said it is very important to avoid using tobacco to save oneself from oral cancer and periodontal complications. “One should also limit usage of sodas, coffee and alcohol because using such beverages causes dental hygiene problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. It is best to choose beverages like milk, which helps strengthen teeth and build stronger enamel, giving you a healthy, beautiful smile, said,” Dr Rita Rai.

Dr Vineet Galhotra, associate professor, Dentistry, Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, further said a person should visit a dentist at least twice a year. He further elaborated that today market is flooded with lots of mouthwash products but not all mouthwashes are useful. Rinsing mouth with warm saline water is very much beneficial and it does not have any side effects. It can help maintain good breath as well as help maintain strong teeth.

City-based dentist, Dr RP Khanna said a mouth rinse, in addition to daily brushing and flossing, can increase the cleanliness of your mouth. Antimicrobial mouth rinses reduce bacteria and plaque activity, which cause gingivitis and gum disease. Fluoride mouth rinses also help reduce and preventtooth decay.

“Not everyone should use a fluoride mouth rinse. For instance, fluoride rinses are notrecommended for children age 6 or younger because they may swallow them. Always check the manufacturer’s label for precautions and age recommendations and talk with your dentist about the use of fluoride mouth rinse,” he cautioned.