Dental Hygiene

We understand dental hygiene as the set of measures carried out to remove bacterial plaque, a whitish film that accumulates in the groove of the occlusal surfaces (chewing area) and in the gingival groove or the area that joins the gum with the tooth.

This gap always exists and measures between 1 and 3 mm. If it measures more, it would likely indicate Periodontitis.

• Dental Brushing: The basic tool for maintaining oral hygiene is the toothbrush, whether it's manual or electric. It should be used twice or three times a day.
• Dental Floss is also very important and must be used correctly, so a proper explanation about its use is necessary.
• An Interdental Brush is indicated when spaces appear between the teeth (when the gingival papilla, the triangular gum area, is lost).
• Mouthwashes: They have two main purposes. The first is to provide fluoride to help prevent cavities, recommended at early ages. The second is to eliminate bacteria present in dental plaque. However, there aren't only fluoride mouthwashes, there are also ones that contain chlorhexidine, specifically for sensitivity or anti-plaque effect, for example.

However, mouthwashes should be considered a supplement to the other measures as their effectiveness is much lower than the rest. Adverts about mouthwashes claim they are a cure-all, but this is not true.

Prevention: Periodontal Revisions

Even if we perfect the brushing technique, it is possible for some bacteria to return and build up in the interior of the gum and therefore the disease will re-appear.

We have to bear in mind that bacteria is always in the mouth and it tends to stick to the surface of the tooth, especially in the gap between the gum and the tooth.

Periodontal check-ups, also known as maintenance or periodontal support therapy, consists of regular check-ups, normally every three to six months depending on each case, to avoid the reappearance of the disease.

In each check-up we evaluate the possible pockets and other parameters such as inflammation and bacteria deposits. We use these results as a guide to establish a precise and exact plan to clean the affected areas.

In conclusion, the success of the treatment depends on controlling all risk factors, proper brushing techniques and completion of the check-ups. It has been proven that by following all of the above, we can stabilise the disease and maintain the situation including the teeth that have previously suffered from severe Periodontitis.