348. oral hygiene

Oral hygiene is a very old practice and is part of building and strengthening positive self-image. The main oral diseases and changes caused by a poor oral hygiene are: dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis and halitosis.

The plaque, responsible for the onset of the diseases mentioned above, consists of microbes (bacteria) and components of saliva that strongly adhere to teeth, a condition that allows it to withstand the forces of self-cleaning physiological, related to the movements of the tongue and cheeks.

Dental caries is a localized disease and with origin in bacteria. These bacteria, from the sugars of foods, produce acids that cause a loss of minerals from the tooth, forming a cavity with time on it.

Gums that are red, swollen and bleed easily, are signs of gingivitis.

Periodontitis is inflammation and destruction of tissues supporting the teeth in the mouth, or there is bone loss and alteration of the gums, making teeth with mobility and "emaciated."

These diseases can cause an entry of bacteria into the blood threatening the entire body (eye disorders, heart, bone, gut, kidneys, lungs, glands, joints).

Halitosis, or bad breath, derives from the Latin halitus which means breath and the Greek suffix osis meaning condition. Halitosis can become a serious problem because of the difficult interpersonal relationships or decrease self-esteem.

The first step to eliminate or alleviate halitosis, is thought to have good oral hygiene, cleaning the tongue with a brush or own cleaners and before bedtime gargle with mouthwash.

Holders of dental prosthesis, should always wash it and after meals and dip once a week in disinfectant solutions.

They should drink plenty of water during the day, especially if you feel dry mouth and particularly in this case, one should stimulate the salivary glands with chewing gum and sugar free candy, because saliva has a cleaning function and protection of mouth.

It is important to make a diet rich in fiber foods, avoiding spicy and with a strong odor (onion and garlic) and being a long time without eating, because food is the best way to stimulate the salivary glands. Tobacco and alcohol are agents to prevent, as well as dry mouth, are great promoters of halitosis.

If you have good oral hygiene and halitosis persists, consult your dentist or dental hygienist, because only they can tell if you have other factors that cause halitosis, such as dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, low salivary flow and excess plaque and tartar.

Preventing oral disease:

1. Brush your teeth after the main meals and at bedtime, with a brush or soft and medium hardness with a fluoride toothpaste and keep it in your mouth for at least two minutes;

2. Pass the floss once a day;

3. Use mouthwash as they have an important role in preventing tooth decay and tooth sensitivity;

4. Making a healthy diet (avoiding sweets between meals and consuming foods with fiber);

5. Consult the dentist or dental hygienist twice a year.

Sofia Machado
Médicos de Portugal