When it comes to oral hygiene, Pakistanis are probably the most ignorant people. Many small things that can be easily corrected in childhood are allowed to grow into major problems by parents who are not aware of the importance of oral health and hygiene.
HEALTHWISE
When it comes to oral hygiene, Pakistanis are probably the most ignorant people. Many small things that can be easily corrected in childhood are allowed to grow into major problems by parents who are not aware of the importance of oral health and hygiene. As a result, a majority of young people suffer from common ailments that can be easily fixed. How many of you, readers, know of someone afraid to laugh for the fear of showing yellow teeth or exude bad breath. Us caught up with Dr Madiha Sohail and asked her about some basic things.
Developing habits
Ideally, one should brush twice a day. People generally brush their teeth before breakfast here, but they should brush in the morning after breakfast. Not many people bother to brush before going to bed, but it’s very important to clean teeth before going to sleep. If, however, one finds the need to brush at any other time during the day, they should do so to avoid bad breath or to find relief from food impaction.
2-3 minutes, one technique
Your tooth brushing session should last two to three minutes. The brush strokes should be in a circular manner while brushing. The angulation of the tooth brush should be at 45 degrees towards the gum line in order to ensure efficient brushing at the tooth and gum interface. All sides of the tooth should be brushed. This process should be followed by cleaning the tongue surface with either the tongue cleaner at the back of the toothbrush or with the brush itself. The procedure should be terminated with two to three good rinses with water. We can always spare some time consulting our dentists for a demo of the brushing technique. Youtube videos are a handy way to make children - or even older people - learn proper brushing technique.
Changing toothbrush...again :(
A regular toothbrush should be replaced every three months. But, it is not a hard and fast rule. In case one finds the bristles of the toothbrush distorted or missing, it is time you change your toothbrush. Also, keep your toothbrush clean and dry. Try getting a toothbrush with soft bristles and a good grip for better use and gentle brushing.
Red flag: stains
It is pertinent to distinguish between teeth stains and pigmentation. The dentist will analyze this as per his/her expertise and the history of the patient. There are multiple causes for stained teeth. Sometimes stains are caused due to pre-natal drug reactions, deficiencies, maternal drug abuse or pigmentation due to intake of well water used for drinking, which is very commonly known as dental fluorosis. The other causes include smoking and in-efficient brushing. Increased tea and coffee intake can also lead to stained teeth. The treatment would, therefore, depend upon the cause. The general way out is efficient brushing and regular check-up to your dentist for consultation pertaining to professional stain removing methods as per the diagnosis of your dentist.
Teeth whitening procedures are very common nowadays. Always remember whiter teeth do not necessarily mean healthy teeth. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure. You can always ask your dentist for it to be done professionally. Many home teeth whitening kits are also available in the market. But, I recommend a dental consult to be done with your dentist prior to making a decision to undergo teeth whitening.
You lost me to bad breath
Bad breath or halitosis is caused mainly due to plaque accumulation and deposition of calculus on teeth. Other systemic causes also exist, but mainly bad breath is associated with poor oral hygiene. The best way to avoid it is brushing regularly, use of prescribed mouthwash from the dentist, proper flossing when necessary and a regular dental visit for removal of plaque and calculus professionally.
Check your fluoride
Toothpastes that are approved by the FDA are highly recommended, as they contain the standard amount of fluoride necessary to protect teeth from sensitivity and decay. Always remember that toothpastes can differ in mineral content and hence in their function in the maintenance of oral hygiene. Don’t fall for the advertisements or word of mouth only as one brand of toothpaste doesn’t cure all dental issues or doesn’t fit the dental conditions of all individuals. Make sure your dentist recommends you a fluoride containing toothpaste for general or specific use.
Mouthwash or no mouthwash
Mouthwashes come in various concentrations. In my opinion, a mouthwash should only be used if prescribed by the dentist in order to avoid staining of teeth caused by the excessive usage of mouthwash. It is recommended that mouthwash be used if your dentist prescribes you one.
Dentist is watching
A regular dental consult should be done once every six months. If you have prior fillings or an excessive plaque accumulation issue, it is advisable to see your dentist once every three months to keep a check on the prognosis of your treated teeth.
When you visit your doctor always make sure to provide him/ her with true and complete medical and dental history. Any particular history of facial trauma, tumor of oral cavity, any impending dental treatments appointments, etc. must be provided to your doctor. There are certain drug- induced dental conditions, therefore, always provide your doctor with details of previous dental experience/complications or presence of any metal fillings or crowns prior to MRI scans.
The inevitable toothaches
Toothache stands out as the most critical of all pains experienced by an individual. The oral cavity is richly supplied with blood vessels and nerves. Therefore, even the slightest pain or sensitivity is transmitted with immediate effect to the brain. The intake of a regular pain killer that suits the individual can reduce timely discomfort or pain. But, upon recovery from pain, one should always seek help from the dentist for finding out the cause of toothache and get it treated accordingly. It is highly recommended that teeth sensitivity or pain must not be taken lightly by anyone; always seek help from your dentist as soon as possible in order to avoid spread of tooth decay.
Causes of a dry mouth
Dry mouth is caused due to multiple reasons. Most of the causes are systemic in nature and the issue is most commonly seen in patients suffering from diabetes. Radiotherapy and use of certain medications can also reduce the salivary flow. It is mandatory to consult with your dentist in order to root out the cause at an early stage with your detailed medical history so that treatment can be done and solutions be advised accordingly.
- Dr.Madiha Sohail is a Dental Surgeon at Cantonment General Hospital, Karachi Cantonment Board.
