Oral hygiene – why is it so important?

More than half of adults have some form of periodontal disease, and for three-quarters of people over the age of 35, periodontitis is the main cause of tooth loss, followed by cavities. The best way to prevent both of these diseases is proper oral hygiene, which includes daily use of a toothbrush and dental floss with the correct technique, along with regular check-ups at your dentist.

How does oral hygiene prevent dental diseases?

Periodontitis and cavities are diseases caused by bacteria from plaque. Plaque is a soft deposit that forms daily on the surface of the teeth along the gum line. It can only be removed through mechanical cleaning.

Bacteria in plaque produce toxins that irritate the gums, making them sensitive—leading to bleeding, redness, and swelling. If this irritation becomes chronic, the gums begin to detach from the teeth, creating periodontal pockets. As the condition progresses, the tissue and bone that support the teeth are increasingly damaged, eventually resulting in tooth loss.

If you plan to keep your teeth for a lifetime, it is crucial to understand the causes, symptoms, and best ways to prevent these diseases.

Daily oral hygiene minimizes the risk of disease, but there are areas that a toothbrush and floss cannot easily reach. In these spots, plaque remains longer, and through mineralization, it turns into tartar. These deposits can only be removed by your dentist. That is why visiting your dentist is an essential part of oral health prevention.

At our dental clinic, you can schedule a check-up where you will receive professional advice on how to maintain the health of your teeth.