The mouth, as the starting point of the digestive system, is highly susceptible to the growth of microorganisms due to its exposure to external environments and contact with food. Consequently, neglecting regular, proper, and effective oral and dental care can lead to diseases in the tissues and teeth within the mouth, causing significant health problems. Besides health issues, poorly maintained oral hygiene can create an unappealing appearance, negatively impacting one’s quality of life socially, psychologically, and physiologically.
Oral and Dental Care During Childhood
To ensure healthy teeth in adulthood, it is essential to begin regular oral and dental care from the eruption of a child’s first teeth. Baby teeth, which begin to emerge during infancy and complete their development between ages 2 to 3, eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. There is a common misconception that baby teeth do not require much care since they will eventually be lost. However, neglecting oral and dental care during childhood can lead to early decay and loss of baby teeth, which can negatively affect the health of future permanent teeth.
Educating children on proper oral and dental care and instilling these habits are crucial for ensuring healthy teeth in adulthood. Parents, who serve as role models for their children, should also maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine alongside their children. Choosing toothbrushes and toothpaste that appeal to children’s preferences can make dental care more enjoyable, helping establish a lasting habit of brushing.
Oral and Dental Care in Adulthood
In adulthood, particularly around the age of 25 when bone development slows compared to bone breakdown, the importance of oral care increases. Greater attention to oral and dental care is necessary to prevent weakening of the teeth and tooth loss. It’s also essential to consume adequate amounts of nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, commonly found in dairy products, which play a role in dental health.
Alongside tooth decay, adults are also prone to gum disease. To prevent gum recession and inflammation, plaque covering the tooth surface and hiding beneath the gums should be regularly cleaned. If tartar has formed, a dental professional should be consulted to remove these deposits. There are also misconceptions that tooth decay and loss are normal during pregnancy and that pregnant women should avoid dental treatments. However, it is important to note that pregnant women can prevent decay and loss with proper nutrition and oral care. Furthermore, dental treatment can be administered during pregnancy if deemed necessary by a dentist.
How to Perform Effective Oral and Dental Care?
For effective oral and dental care for both children and adults, consider the following:
- To maintain healthy teeth and gums, use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, brushing at least twice a day at a 45-degree angle with up-and-down strokes.
- Ensure that all surfaces of each tooth, including front, back, and chewing surfaces, are adequately brushed.
- Clean the tongue using a toothbrush or tongue cleaner to remove bacteria.
- Use dental floss after brushing to remove debris between the teeth, which helps prevent plaque and tartar formation.
- After brushing, use mouthwash for a more thorough oral cleaning.
- Minimize the consumption of sugary foods, which increase acidity in the mouth and contribute to plaque and tooth decay.
- Avoid excessive tea, coffee, and tobacco, as these contribute to tooth staining.
- Ensure the fluoride content of drinking water is adequate, especially for children. In areas with low fluoride levels in water, consider fluoride supplementation as advised by a dentist.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups at least every six months.
Applying proper oral and dental care principles from childhood can help preserve dental health and prevent tooth loss throughout life. Therefore, if you want to maintain healthy teeth, take the necessary steps for oral hygiene and regularly visit a dentist for check-ups.