There are some oral health and hygiene questions that are more important than others. Not to mention, some that are voiced on a more regular basis.
So for this post, we thought we’d provide answers to 12 of the most common everyday oral health and hygiene questions. If you’ve been curious about a basic everyday issue, you’ll probably find the information you need outlined below:
1. Is Alcoholic Mouthwash Dangerous?
Contrary to popular belief, there’s no scientific evidence whatsoever to suggest that alcoholic mouthwash is dangerous. While some have irresponsibly claimed that alcoholic mouthwash can cause everything from gum disease to mouth cancer, this simply isn’t the case. For the time-being, therefore, a dentist-recommended mouthwashthat contains alcohol as an active ingredient can be used confidently and is no cause for concern.
2. How Often Should I Use Mouthwash?
It depends on your requirements and the type of mouthwash you use. If you’re using a particularly powerful and alcohol-laden mouthwash, it’s better to stick to the usual 2 to 3 times per day. If you choose a much gentler mouthwash that contains no alcohol at all, you can probably use it as often as you like. It all depends on the products you choose and your oral health – be sure to ask your dentist for guidance if necessary.
3. Are Electric Toothbrushes Worth the Money?
In a word, yes. Having plummeted in price over recent years, some of the most incredible electric toothbrushes ever to hit the market are comprehensively affordable. Worldwide, dentists universally recommend switching to a high-quality electric toothbrush, with the capacity to clean up to 100% more plaque than a manual brush. Clinical trials have shown time and time again that electric toothbrushes are superior to traditional brushes in every way.
4. What About Water-Flossers?
The same also applies to powered water-flossers, which get to work at a much deeper level than conventional dental floss. Not only this, but they’re also exponentially easier to use and get the entire job done in as little as 60 seconds. A quicker and easier alternative, which guarantees a significantly better results with every use.
5. Which is the Best Whitening Toothpaste?
A tricky question to answer, given that almost everywhitening toothpaste available is marketed in a misleading manner. Realistically, there isn’t a single whitening toothpaste on the market that’s going to make a huge difference to the whiteness of your teeth. For health and safety reasons, everyday toothpaste simply cannot contain the kinds of chemicals and active agents needed to effectively remove deep-set stains. Instead, whitening pastes are best viewed as preventativepastes to minimise surface stains in the first place. Don’t be misled and expect miracles.
6. Do Sensitive Toothpastes Really Work?
Yes, but only if they’re used continuously. Not to mention, manufactured by a dentist-recommended brand. The better sensitive toothpastes on the market these days get to work straight away, building towards a cumulative effect that can significantly reduce pain and discomfort. Used continuously, sensitive toothpaste and mouthwash can ensure excessive discomfort is eliminated from the equation indefinitely. Nevertheless, withdraw such products from use and chances are the problem will return. If concerned about the sensitivity of your teeth, speak to your dentist.
7. How Often Should I See My Dentist?
At least once each year, ideally every six months or so. Only your dentist can recommend how often you return for a checkup, in accordance with your oral health and your requirements in general.
8. What’s the Best Way to Beat Bad Breath?
Likewise, if you’re worried about bad breath, the first thing to do is speak to your dentist. The reason being that there may be an underlying cause, which once identified can be effectively addressed. Otherwise, it’s simply a case of following a few simple yet effective lifestyle rules. Drink plenty of water and remain hydrated, avoid alcohol, stop smoking, maintain immaculate oral hygiene standards, chew gum throughout the day and watch what you eat. Simple measures that can effectively combat bad breath for the vast majority of people.
9. How Does Chewing Gum Keep My Teeth Clean?
Your mouth relies on a continuous supply of saliva to keep it clean. Saliva gets to work on the germs, bacteria and food particles that would otherwise stick around and wreak havoc on your oral health. Not only does the minty-fresh flavour of sugar free gum generate a torrent of saliva, but so too does the chewing action. Hence, sugar-free chewing gum mounts a two-way assault on all the nasties that pose a threat to your oral health and hygiene. Just be sure to read the label first and ensure it doesn’t have any sugar in it!
10. Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum disease. A problem which if left untreated can lead to bad breath, receding gums and tooth loss. On the plus side, most cases of gum disease caught early can be treated by simply stepping up your everyday oral health and hygiene habits. It’s simply a case of ensuring you don’t ignore blood on your toothbrush, instead bringing the matter to the attention of your dentist for professional advice.
11. Should I Brush My Teeth More Often?
If you already brush your teeth twice a day, probably not. Incorporating a third brushing in the middle of the day is fine, but take things to extremes and you could end up doing more harm than good. Brushing your teeth too often or too aggressively can result in their protective enamel coating being worn away, increasing the risk of tooth decay and cavities.
12. Are DIY Teeth Whitening Kits Safe?
Yes, but under two very important conditions. First of all, it’s essential that when you buy a home teeth-whitening kit, you choose an approved and recommended product. Quality differences vary enormously from one manufacturer to the next. In addition, it’s up to you to ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter. If it says to leave the gel on your teeth for no longer than 30 minutes and notto repeat the treatment more than three times a months, it’s up to you to comply!
