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Oral Hygiene

The concept of oral hygiene had its roots thousands of years ago. Ancient cultures mashed or chewed small twigs and tree roots until the fibers loosened up at one end to create a jagged brush. These “chewsticks” were not the best method for proper oral hygiene, since the result was comparable to what you would get, if you chewed a toothpick. The early Romans had their own version of adequate oral hygiene. Pliny the Younger of Rome (61-113 A.D) said using a porcupine quill would “make the teeth firm”. This was considered a more effective treatment over the vulture quill, which he said would cause halitosis.

The Ancient Greeks (3rd century B.C.) were a little more advanced in the concept of oral hygiene. Aristotle told Alexander the Great to rub his teeth each day with “a thin linen towel”. This rough material was commonly used by many cultures to keep teeth clean. In 1780, the English developed a rudimentary toothbrush. The handle was comprised of bone, and the bristles were attached to bored holes by wires. The toothbrush eventually migrated to the United States, where people would enhance its development with new technology.

The modern toothbrush is still one of the most effective methods in maintaining proper oral hygiene. Individuals, who brush and floss on a regular basis, are more likely to benefit from their routine habits than those, who do not engage in such activities. Besides implementing good habits at home, people need to have regular checkups with a dentist. Medical Center Dental Group has a staff of experienced professionals, who want to assist you with your oral hygiene maintenance.

Our “Evolutionary Hygiene” concept helps individual’s battle periodontal disease at any stage. Patients will receive specific treatment plans to maintain optimum oral hygiene, which leads to healthy gums and teeth. “Evolutionary Hygiene” involves a systematic and non-surgical approach to treating gum disease at any stage of the infection. A typical dental visit involves much more than just a regular tooth cleaning. We take the necessary steps to treat your periodontal disease so that it does not advance.

On your first visit, our dental hygienists will examine your gums and give you a full periodontal evaluation. We will then use x-rays to screen for signs of tooth decay and clean your teeth using microsonic scaling instruments. To further enhance your oral health, we will polish, stain, and then floss tooth enamel, while providing a fluoride treatment for extra protection. Patients will receive detailed instructions on how to maintain superior oral hygiene, when they get home. Our professionals will let you know, if any follow up visits are needed to treat your condition.

The best way to fight periodontal infection is to use efficient oral hygiene products on a regular basis. Prevention is the most effective treatment for periodontal disease, but unfortunately, many individuals do not realize this until it is too late. Medical Center Dental Group professionals want to give you a few tips on maintaining a superior smile, which will reduce the chances of periodontal disease. Patients should brush at least twice a day, in order to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Soft, medium head toothbrushes work best, but electric toothbrushes are even better. Individuals should also floss, as much as possible to maintain their oral health.

Patients should use mouthwash from time to time. Use for 20-30 seconds at full strength to achieve adequate results. Medical Center Dental Group also encourages all patients to use fluoride toothpaste. Our professionals can tell you, which toothpaste is best for your oral hygiene needs. Bring on that gorgeous smile with the assistance of Medical Center Dental Group’s services.      

For any other dentistry related questions or to make an appointment, please contact us at 888.790.0309 or feel free to Ask the Dentist.