Bacterial plaque control methods are those procedures aimed at the elimination of deposits that accumulate on dental surfaces. The elimination and control of bacterial plaque is essential to achieve dental and periodontal health. This can be achieved by mechanical and chemical techniques. Mechanical procedures are performed using tools that drag the dental surface plate. Chemists are intended to interfere with all chemical reactions of growth and bacterial metabolism.

TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROPER ORAL HYGIENE

The mechanical removal of plaque is based on the mechanical cleaning of the teeth, by the individual. Tooth brushing is a type of mechanical removal which is necessary for the prevention of caries and periodontal diseases in most individuals. Its purpose is the elimination of the bacterial plaque adhered to the surface of the teeth, food waste and also stains.

The design of the brush is important to be able to have proper oral hygiene. The mango must be in accordance with the age and skill of the individual. The head of this has to be according to the size of the patient’s mouth, always recommending a small round head to reach all dental surfaces. Nylon or polyester toothbrushes with a rounded tip are recommended. This should be changed approximately every 3 months.

The recommended brushing technique is according to the age and skill of each one. For children, the best technique is horizontal, while for adults the Bass technique is recommended, in order to achieve gingival groove hygiene. This technique consists of performing systemic rotational movements from the gingival groove. In the child Oral hygiene should be performed three times a day, an average of 3 minutes each time you brush your teeth. The use of a fluoridated toothpaste, that is to say with fluoride ion, is essential to prevent tooth decay. The electric brushes can be useful for patients who are unmotivated the with little manual dexterity or especially high risk groups in plaque formation, such as children, orthodontic carriers or disabled patients. This type of toothbrushes began to be useful when the rotational movements were introduced in these. Manual brushes outperform manual brushing in the most difficult areas.

The interdental or interproximal hygiene is essential in order to achieve adequate oral hygiene. Flossing is used in interproximal spaces where there is no loss of support and the space is closed. In cases where there is a loss of support or periodontitis, the use of interproximal brushes is recommended. If tooth brushing is not adequate or the technique is too aggressive, side effects may occur. These effects may be cervical abrasions of enamel, dentin or cement or lesions in the gingival tissues (such as recessions). The chemical methods of plaque control are advised in those patients with limitations of mechanical plaque control, as long as there is a motivation and manual ability on the part of the patient, patients who by pathological processes have limited access to tooth brushing, patients at high risk to suffer the main oral diseases. Antiplate agents are those that favor the prevention of tooth decay or gingivitis that is to say that the chemical agent has an effect on the bacterial plaque to reduce its pathogenicity. The basic requirements of antiplaque or chemical agents is that they be effective (that there is one or more active ingredients that have been clinically proven to be able to reduce plaque levels) and safe (with no side effects).

It is also advised to carry out periodic check with the dentist to be able to check the oral cavity and other systemic pathologies and, in addition, if necessary, perform a professional prophylaxis preventing and maintaining oral health. This professional prophylaxis consists in the control of plaque by the patient, by means of an adequate medical history, a prayer exam, the registration of the plaque index, thus assessing the level of risk of oral diseases. In addition, the patient is instructed and motivated for oral hygiene and health. In this prophylaxis or professional hygiene the plaque, calculus or tartar and the stains that may exist are eliminated, as well as a polishing of the dental surfaces and the overflowing restorations and of the interproximal spaces. Depending on the risk,

In addition to good tooth brushing, interproximal hygiene and regular review with the trusted dentist for proper oral hygiene, the elimination of toxicological habits, such as tobacco, is recommended, avoiding worsening health status. Also, a healthy lifestyle with a reduction of processed foods and an increase in the consumption of fruits and vegetables, as well as doing sports daily, make it possible to obtain adequate oral hygiene with all this.