Winter is a busy time for most; with all of the parties,
dinners, shopping, celebrations, and altered schedules, it's difficult to
remember all of the tasks that are routine in the "off months."
That's no reason to forget to practice good oral hygiene, however, especially
with all of the starchy, sugary treats present that could wreak havoc on dental
health.
A comprehensive oral
health care plan is the best way to fight chances of periodontal disease,
according to an article in the November 2007 issue of AGD Impact, the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD)
monthly news magazine. Dentists recommend that patients brush thoroughly twice a
day, floss once a day and rinse with mouthwash when necessary to remove plaque
and keep the mouth free from bacteria.
Regular care is recommended
because of the small amount of time it takes for bacteria to invade the mouth,
even if it's clean. Studies have shown that plaque will regrow on teeth that
are completely clean within three to four hours of brushing.
The most common habit her
patients ignore is flossing. Although flossing requires patience and dexterity,
with time and experience, a person can learn to floss more quickly and still be
effective. Our fast-paced world, many
people don't have the patience to give flossing a chance to become
second-nature, but it can tremendously improve their oral health.
Hygiene tips for a
stellar smile:
• Brush with the radio on - dentists recommend
brushing for the entire length of a song.
• Use fluoridated, antimicrobial toothpastes and
mouth rinses. They help to make the
tooth structure resistant to decay.
• Keep oral hygiene products at work. Studies show that the chance of a person using
them during the day will increase 65 percent.
• Talk to your dentist about new products you're
using, as all products are not suited for all people.