The importance of dental hygiene: a guide for maintaining a healthy smile
As a local dental clinic, we at Old Windsor understand the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene Berkshire. One of the best strategies is preventive dental care, and here, we will discuss its importance and provide you with the knowledge to keep your smile healthy and bright. 
What is preventive dental care?
Preventive dental care is a type of routine care that can prevent oral health issues from developing in the first place. It involves regular checkups and cleanings, as well as several other practices that can help you maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Why is preventive dental care important?
Preventive dental care is important because it can prevent a wide range of oral health issues. By catching these issues early, we can provide you with the care and treatment you need to address them before they become more serious. Additionally, regular checkups and cleanings can help you to maintain good oral hygiene and a healthy smile.
How often should you visit?
The NHS recommends that most people visit their dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. During these visits, we will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, take x-rays if necessary, and perform a cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. We will also discuss any potential oral health issues or concerns you may have, providing you with personalised advice and recommendations for maintaining good oral health.
At-home care
In addition to visiting the dentist regularly, it is also important that you maintain good dental hygiene Berkshire at home; this includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. It is also important to limit your consumption of sugar and how often you snack between meal times. Furthermore, quitting smoking can have a major impact on the long-term health of your gums and teeth and help you reduce your risk of developing oral health issues.
Preventing oral cancer
Another important aspect of preventive dental care involves screening for oral cancer. Oral cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening if not caught early. During your regular checkups, our dentist will perform an oral cancer screening, which involves a visual examination of your mouth, tongue, and throat for signs of cancer or precancerous cells. If any suspicious areas are found, our dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon or a maxillofacial surgeon for further evaluation.
It is good to be aware of the risk factors for oral cancer, such as smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, or exposure to the HPV virus. If you are at a higher risk of oral cancer, it is important to have regular screenings and discuss any concerns with our dentist.
Conclusion
At our local dental clinic, we understand the importance of preventive dental care and are committed to providing the best care to our patients. By visiting our dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings and maintaining good oral hygiene at home, you can keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come. If you have any further questions about your oral health, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile with dental hygiene Berkshire.
