Dental Hygiene by Sebastian Archer (Learner 340682)

Toothbrush

3406822 — 2024-05-01 13:50:59 UTC

A toothbrush is an oral hygiene tool used to clean the teeth, gums, and tongue. It consists of a head of tightly clustered bristles, atop of which toothpaste can be applied, mounted on a handle which facilitates the cleaning of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. They should be used in conjunction with something to clean between the teeth where the bristles of the toothbrush cannot reach - for example floss, tape or interdental brushes.

Dental Floss

3406822 — 2024-05-01 13:52:04 UTC

Dental floss is a cord of thin filaments used in interdental cleaning to remove food and dental plaque from between teeth or places a toothbrush has difficulty reaching or is unable to reach.[1] Its regular use as part of oral cleaning is intended to maintain oral health.

Why is Dental Hygiene Important?

3406822 — 2024-05-01 13:53:42 UTC

Without good oral hygiene, germs can reach levels that might lead to infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Also, certain medicines can lower the flow of spit, called saliva. Those medicines include decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, water pills and antidepressants.

Plaque

3406822 — 2024-05-01 13:55:07 UTC

Dental plaque is a biofilm of microorganisms that grows on surfaces within the mouth. It is a sticky colourless deposit at first, but when it forms tartar, it is often brown or pale yellow. It is commonly found between the teeth, on the front of teeth, behind teeth, on chewing surfaces, along the gumline (supragingival), or below the gumline cervical margins. Dental plaque is also known as microbial plaque, oral biofilm, dental biofilm, dental plaque biofilm or bacterial plaque biofilm. Bacterial plaque is one of the major causes for dental decay and gum disease.

The Effects of Food on your Dental Hygiene

3406822 — 2024-05-01 13:58:12 UTC

Consuming sugary and acidic foods and drinks can lead to dental decay and gum disease, while a lack of essential nutrients can weaken our teeth and gums. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of healthy foods and to practice good oral hygiene habits to maintain a healthy mouth.