Where can I access oral health education?
When it comes to oral health education Bournemouth, we find that some of our community are not aware of its importance. If you are an adult, you may be under the impression that oral health education Bournemouth is important for children, or for those from a particular background. Here at Dorset Orthodontics, we recognise that oral health education Bournemouth is for everyone, young and not so young! We are delighted to be advocates for oral health education alongside our orthodontic treatments.
Why is oral health education important?
Oral health is an essential part of overall health, and therefore we understand that it is crucial to educate people about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a range of dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath (halitosis), which can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and possibly their self confidence.
Educating our community about oral health can help people understand the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and help them develop healthy habits which can be continued at home that can prevent dental problems. Oral health education should begin in childhood as well as continuing throughout our lives.
What kinds of healthy habits can be developed in relation to this?
One of the most important aspects of educating our community in this area is helping people to understand how to brush and floss correctly. Brushing and flossing are often considered to be the two most important things you can do to maintain good oral hygiene. It is recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, using a fluoride based toothpaste. Flossing should be done at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth. The floss can access areas which regular brushing cannot, helping to make sure there is no debris left behind.
In relation to orthodontics, we know that it can be difficult to achieve the same level of cleanliness when brushing and flossing if you have fixed dental implements in place. For advice regarding your personal needs, please do ask us when you next come in for an appointment.
Another key aspect of creating good oral health practices is teaching people about the importance of a healthy diet. A diet that is high in sugar and carbohydrates can contribute to tooth decay and other dental problems. Eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help you to maintain good oral health, as well as promoting good overall health. Alongside this, it’s important to emphasise the dangers of tobacco and alcohol use. Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of oral cancer, and alcohol can contribute to gum disease and other dental problems. Educating people about the risks of tobacco and alcohol use can help them maintain good oral health.
Regular dental check-ups are also an important part of promoting good oral hygiene routines. Many dental problems such as decay and gum disease can be prevented or treated if they are caught early.
If you have questions about how you personally can improve your oral health practices, or how you can create good routines around your braces, please do discuss this with us at your next appointment.