Oral hygiene, the care of the mouth and teeth, is critical to preventing dental cavities and other teeth conditions. Our dentists teach our patients about oral hygiene and proper care for their mouth, teeth and tongue.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Instructions for good oral hygiene will include:

• Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, two times a day
• Floss once a day
• Brush your tongue once a day
• Rinse with over-the-counter mouthwash, twice a day
• Dental checkups usually twice a year or more often, as recommended by your dentist

Oral Hygiene Conditions

Some gum and mouth conditions occur because of lack of oral hygiene, but genetics and other health conditions can cause them. These include:

• Gingivitis/periodontal (gum disease) can occur because of poor oral hygiene. Some patients also have a family history of periodontal disease. One of our general dentists will check your teeth for signs of periodontal disease. He or she will evaluate any current bone loss and periodontal pockets. If you need further treatment, our dentists will refer you to a periodontist, a gum specialist.
• Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by a variety of things, including poor oral hygiene, other health conditions and even something simple, like what you just ate. For patients with chronic halitosis, our dentists will recommend a variety of treatments, such as brushing your tongue, rinsing with mouthwash, periodontal treatment, smoking cessation and elimination of acute oral infections.

Learn more about treatment for oral hygiene conditions by visiting our General Dentistry page.

To make an appointment, call us at 410-955-6663.