Oral Hygiene

Self-care methods for maintaining health of the TEETH, gums, and MOUTH. Oral healthcare providers recommend brushing the teeth at least twice daily and flossing or using an interdental device to clean between the teeth once daily. People who snack throughout the day should brush more frequently to clear away food debris and BACTERIA that accumulate after eating. Appropriate oral hygiene helps maintain the health of the teeth, gums, and other structures of the mouth and also reduces the risk of INFECTION in people who have tongue, lip, or other oral PIERCINGS. Tooth decay and gum disease develop more rapidly in people who have diminished saliva production, have DIABETES, or who smoke. Further
preventive care measures include regular visits to the dentist and dental hygienist for cleaning and examination to detect oral health problems such as GINGIVITIS, PERIODONTAL DISEASE, and oral CANCER.