What is oral hygiene?

Article written by Elite Dental Group

Oral hygiene involves maintaining healthy teeth and reducing the chances of infection and decay. This process involves brushing and flossing daily and maintaining at least two dental visits annually. Oral hygiene is key to overall health as bacteria in the mouth can cause adverse health conditions such as heart disease and infections.

Here are some of the main reasons why oral hygiene is important.

It affects overall health – A person’s mouth is an easy way for bacteria to enter the body. Often chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease start with mouth lesions or dental problems like gum disease. Additionally, conditions such as periodontitis a severe form of gum disease have been shown to cause other health conditions as it increases the body’s level of inflammation.

Earlier detection – Bi-annual dental visits can help identify dental conditions early and control chronic conditions.

Prevent tooth loss – Tooth loss is a common problem for both adults and children. However, it can be easily prevented by following good dental habits. Regular, correct brushing and flossing techniques can help to reduce plaque build-up and help maintain strong, white teeth. Additionally, it is best to schedule professional cleanings which can remove plaque and tartar from teeth and the gum line.

Create a dental plan – Dental conditions and mouth structures vary from person to person. Regular visits can help a dentist detect problems and devise a plan that can effectively manage and in some cases eradicate an oral condition.

Dr. Andre Eliasian is one of the leading dentists in cosmetic dentistry in Glendale CA. His clinic offers several services using modern dentistry procedures which are non-invasive. If you are looking for tooth whitening in Glendale or oral surgery in Glendale call for an appointment.

Why Retainers Are Not as Effective as Dental Braces

Article by Remarkable Smiles

Some people may think the terms retainer and dental braces are interchangeable, but any experienced dentist or orthodontist can tell you why these two terms don’t mean the same thing. Retainers may look similar to dental braces, but they are not designed for the same purpose. This is why retainers cannot solve the most severe dental problems, such as malocclusion (misaligned bite), dental overcrowding, overbites, and underbites.

Retainers have several key differences from dental braces. Unlike dental braces, they are not designed to be worn 24/7. They are designed for easy removal during tasks such as eating and brushing teeth. Because they are made from less sturdy materials and not attached to patients’ teeth using tight wires and/or glue, retainers do not exert as much pressure on your teeth.

For this reason, retainers are inadequate for fixing severe tooth misalignment. They may be capable of fixing one or two misaligned teeth, but retainers are most effective as a post-dental brace treatment. Orthodontists often prescribe retainers to keep patients’ teeth aligned as their gums and teeth recover after years of using dental braces. Retainers may not be the best for moving teeth, but they are effective at preventing teeth from moving.

Dental patients will likely need the counsel of an experienced dentist or orthodontist before choosing the right treatment for their dental issues. Be sure to consult with a dental professional to find out if a retainer or dental braces are adequate to treat your misalignment.

About Remarkable Smiles

Remarkable Smiles is the orthodontic practice of Dr. Mark Rashidi, a Mission Viejo orthodontist who specializes both in orthodontics and orthopedic facial surgery. If you have been looking for an orthodontist in Lake Forest, Irvine, or Laguna Hills, make the short drive to Mission Viejo for expert orthodontic services delivered with care and proficiency.