Oral hygiene – basics and common mistakes

Last updated on: 5 Aug, 2026

Daily oral care reduces the risk of dental problems and helps prevent certain health complications. However, many people make mistakes when maintaining oral hygiene, which can lead to tooth decay, periodontal problems and other complications. 

Being well-informed is the first step towards healthy teeth and proper oral care.

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Basics of oral hygiene

Oral hygiene is a set of daily practices and procedures aimed at keeping the mouth clean and preventing the development of gum and tooth diseases. 

It involves the mechanical removal of dental plaque, food debris and bacteria that accumulate on the surface of the teeth, gums, tongue and other soft tissues in the mouth. Proper oral hygiene is essential for the prevention of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Key practices for maintaining oral hygiene

The main practice for maintaining oral health is daily tooth brushing. This should be done at least twice a day – in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before bed, for at least two minutes. 

Using the correct technique is essential – the brush should be held at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and circular movements should be made, covering all surfaces of the teeth.

The use of dental floss is recommended for cleaning the spaces between the teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach. Using it at least once a day removes plaque between the teeth and helps prevent the development of interdental caries. 

An alternative is interdental brushes of various sizes, which are particularly effective for larger spaces between the teeth.

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Using mouthwash complements daily care by helping to reach hard-to-reach areas and freshening breath. For gum inflammation, mouthwash or toothpaste containing chlorhexidine is recommended, but it should be used with care, as prolonged use can lead to tooth discolouration.

The choice of suitable oral hygiene products is individual. People with increased plaque build-up can use anti-plaque toothpaste, whilst a whitening toothpaste helps remove surface stains. 

For people with sensitive teeth, a toothpaste for sensitive teeth is suitable, as it contains ingredients to strengthen tooth enamel.

Recommendations for children’s oral hygiene require special attention from parents. Cleaning children’s teeth should begin as soon as the first tooth appears, using specialised children’s products and soft-bristled brushes. Optimal gum care begins in early childhood and includes proper tooth cleaning.

The importance of regular dental check-ups

During a dental check-up, a comprehensive assessment of the oral cavity is carried out. This includes a visual examination of the teeth, gums and soft tissues, checking for cavities, inflammation, bite abnormalities and other problems.

Professional teeth cleaning is an integral part of professional care and includes ultrasonic removal of tartar, polishing of the teeth to remove surface stains, and fluoride treatment to strengthen the enamel.

If necessary, the dentist performs X-ray diagnostics to detect hidden cavities or bone resorption, checks the condition of any dental prostheses fitted, and carries out periodontal treatment if periodontal pockets are present. A gingival gel may be applied in cases of gum inflammation.

Frequency of check-ups

For people with healthy teeth and gums, preventive check-ups are recommended every six months, although this is not a mandatory schedule for all patients. The interval can range from 3 to 24 months. 

For patients at increased risk of periodontitis (gum disease), as well as those with dental implants or prosthetic restorations, check-ups should be more frequent or tailored to the individual circumstances of each case. 

Children should visit the dentist at least two to three times a year, as milk teeth are more susceptible to decay. The number of visits depends on the child’s risk status – more frequently for high risk, less frequently for low risk.

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The dentist’s role in maintaining oral health

The dentist not only treats existing problems but plays a key role in preventing them. They recommend suitable products according to individual needs and develop personalised programmes for maintaining oral health. 

The dentist is a partner in long-term oral care. They monitor changes in oral health over the years, recognise early signs of problems and take preventive measures. Regular check-ups detect early forms of tooth decay, which can be treated without the need for fillings. 

Professional cleaning not only removes plaque but also polishes the tooth surfaces, which can make it harder for bacteria to adhere later on. For patients with dental implants or prosthetic restorations, the dentist monitors their proper function and hygiene around them, preventing complications such as peri-implantitis. 

Common problems related to oral hygiene

Inadequate or improper oral hygiene leads to the development of problems that affect not only the oral cavity but also the body’s general health.

The most common problems are:

• Tooth decay – dental caries is the most common dental disease, caused by bacterial destruction of hard dental tissues. 
• Periodontitis – a progressive inflammatory disease of the tissues surrounding the tooth, which, if left untreated, leads to bone destruction and tooth loss. 
• Bad breath – a common problem usually associated with poor oral hygiene, existing tooth decay, gum inflammation or reduced saliva production. 
• Tooth sensitivity – increased sensitivity of the teeth to hot, cold, sweet or acidic stimuli is often due to thinning of the enamel or exposed tooth necks resulting from aggressive brushing, gum recession or erosion.
• Gum inflammation – gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease, characterised by redness, swelling and bleeding. If left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, a chronic condition involving irreversible tissue destruction.

Preventing these problems requires a comprehensive approach. Daily home care should be supplemented by professional procedures such as ultrasonic cleaning and fluoride treatment. A healthy diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, further supports the health of teeth and gums. 

At the first signs of inflammation, treatment should be started immediately, as advised by your dentist. It is important to know that most oral diseases are preventable and reversible in their early stages, but require a timely response and consistent care.

Conclusion

Oral hygiene is an important part of healthcare that requires daily attention and regular professional support. Regular use of high-quality oral hygiene products, correct cleaning techniques and regular check-ups are the key to healthy teeth and a beautiful smile.

The impact of oral hygiene on general health should not be underestimated. A number of scientific studies show a link between periodontal disease and the risks of cardiovascular problems, diabetes, respiratory infections and complications during pregnancy. A healthy mouth is a reflection of a healthy body and contributes to a higher quality of life.

At Dentatime Clinic, our team of specialists with extensive experience in implantology, periodontology and cosmetic dentistry looks after our patients’ overall oral health, offering a personalised approach and professional treatment.

Frequently asked questions

When should dental floss be used?

Dental floss should be used at least once a day, preferably in the evening before or after brushing your teeth, to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth.

Why is professional teeth cleaning important?

Professional cleaning removes tartar and plaque from hard-to-reach areas that cannot be accessed during home hygiene, and prevents the development of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

What should I do if my gums are bleeding?

Bleeding gums is a problem that requires consultation with a dentist. In the meantime, improve your oral hygiene, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an antiseptic mouthwash.