Dental Hygiene

Why is good oral hygiene important?

As it is said ‘prevention is better than cure’ and here Novel Dental Group in Gravesend, we aim to provide our patients with full care in the fight against dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Good oral health begins at home and diligent brushing with a suited toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste and along with flossing, will get you off to a great start. Unfortunately, the bacteria that lead to both tooth decay and gum disease have a habit of finding their way into places that simply can’t be reached without periodic professional care to support your efforts at home.

This is where our dentists are on hand to help. They will remove the tartar (hardened bacteria) that has built up in difficult to reach places. Not only will this thorough cleaning help in the fight against gum disease, but will also leave your teeth looking and feeling cleaner too.

What will I achieve from hygiene appointment?

1. A ‘Scale and Polish’ to remove tartar, plaque and staining
2. A fresher and cleaner mouth
3. to use at home
4. Checks for gum disease and other oral problems
5. Personalised advice on the best ongoing oral health care by demonstrating the correct flossing and brushing techniques as well provide dietary advice and other information such as how to give up smoking.
6. With gum disease increasingly being linked to many medical problems such as heart diseases, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s, ensuring that you take good care of your gums may even result in better overall health.

Looking after your gums?

Your gums are like cushions for your teeth; they surround the teeth in the jaws and help to support them. Looking after your gums is just as important as looking after your teeth. Red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush them could be a sign of gum disease, also known as gingivitis.

Untreated gingivitis?

If gingivitis is left untreated it can develop further into an infection known as periodontitis, which affects the entire area surrounding the tooth. This as a result could lead to tooth loss.

Are you brushing correctly?

Following these simple steps will help you keep a healthy mouth:

1. Use small circular movements with the brush held at 45 degrees to the tooth
2. Use a fluoride toothpaste
3. Move systematically around the mouth
4. Remember to clean the inside surfaces and the biting surfaces
5. Don’t forget behind the top and bottom teeth
6. A good technique will take 2 minutes
7. Remember: spit but DO NOT rinse

To keep your mouth in tip-top shape we recommend you come in for regular hygiene appointments and dental check-ups.