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  • Writer's pictureSheen Dental

How does a hygienist support my dental hygiene?

Dental hygiene is extremely important when it comes to your oral health, as many issues can be avoided simply by maintaining a good dental hygiene routine. The importance of a routine can sometimes be lost, or not clearly understood, so it is important to have information on the benefits of maintaining one. If you are looking for a hygienist in Richmond who can give you some advice, then we recommend visiting us at Sheen Dental, and we will be able to give you some excellent advice on how to best maintain your dental hygiene.


What is good dental hygiene?


As a good rule of thumb, you should be brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. You should also try to avoid highly sugary foods and drinks, as these can make brushing a lot less effective, and give you more work. Sugar is one of the main causes of cavities, and in fact a zero-sugar diet can be extremely healthy, not just for your teeth.


What are interdental brushes?


Interdental brushes are small brushes that are used to brush in places where a regular toothbrush cannot go. This is crucial, as it can attack build-ups of plaque and bacteria that have previously been left. Bacteria in the mouth is harmless, however it is the acids, produced in the process of them decomposing the food in your teeth, that causes decay. This is what will eventually rot your teeth. If you are looking for a hygienist in Richmond for some special equipment, then speak to us, and we will be able to help.


Scale and Polish


We understand that brushing and flossing can be a tedious task, and many people may forget if they are on a busy schedule. This is why we, along with many other dental practices, will offer a scale and polish service, which is essentially a professional cleaning of your teeth. This will reach areas, and attack build-ups of plaque, that you may not have normally been able to reach, so you will leave with your mouth feeling fresh and clean.


What is the danger of a cavity?


Initially, there is no danger in a cavity, as it will erode the enamel, which has no nerves in it. However, this means that the cavity will go unnoticed, and many people will discover the cavity when it begins to hurt. This is usually when the cavity has reached the dentine and exposed nerves. Often the tooth will become sensitive first, before it becomes painful.


Once the cavity has reached the dentine, it is dangerously close to the pulp chamber. This is the core of the tooth, and is where the pulp resides, which is what supplies the tooth with nutrients. Once the pulp chamber has been breached by the cavity, the pulp will become infected, which puts the entire health of your tooth on the line. In this case, you will need a root canal, or for the tooth to be removed.


To avoid this, a dental hygiene routine should be maintained. If you would like any tips, and would like to see a hygienist in Richmond for more dental advice, then Sheen Dental is here to help.

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