Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean, and is means of prevention from dental caries, gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath, and other dental disorders. It consists of both professional and personal care. Regular cleanings, usually done by dentists and dental hygienists, are recommended to remove tartar  that may develop even with careful brushing and flossing. Professional cleaning includes tooth scaling, using various instruments or devices to loosen and remove deposits from the teeth.

Regular brushing is recommended by healthcare professionals twice a day (rather in the morning and in the evening, or after meal) in order to prevent formation of plaque and tartar. A toothbrush is able to remove plaque on most surfaces of the teeth except for areas between teeth.

As a result, flossing is also considered a necessity to maintain oral hygiene. When used correctly, dental floss removes plaque from between teeth and at the gum line, where periodontal disease often begins and could develop caries. The purpose of cleaning teeth is to remove plaque, which consists mostly of bacteria.

Regular visits to your dentist can prevent you from serious oral and dental diseases. Most popular among them are:

• Caries
• Pulpitis
• Gingivitis
• Halitosis
• Periodontitis