ORAL HYGIENE

Oral Hygiene and it’s Advancements

Abubakar Osman

Michigan Islamic Academy

ORAL HYGIENE

Abstract

Oral hygiene is brushing and flossing one's teeth regularly to maintain a healthy mouth free of

infection and other problems such as bad breath. Regular oral hygiene is necessary to avoid tooth

decay and bad breath. Dentists and hygienists, for example, are well aware of the critical role

dental and oral health play in overall health and wellness. Besides poor oral health, gum disease

and tooth decay are also linked to other ailments such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular

disease. Thus, keeping healthy gums and teeth is a lifetime duty. The sooner a person begins

practicing healthy dental habits like flossing, brushing, flossing, and use of toothpaste, the more

likely they are to avoid costly dental procedures and long-term health concerns.
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Miswak's Origins and Effectiveness

Miswak is a twig traditionally used to brush one's teeth and clean one's mouth. Thousands of

years ago, ancient empires allegedly employed this method from the Babylonians to the Greeks,

Romans, and Egyptian culture (Bailey, 2021). This twig has antimicrobial qualities that help

prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Miswak, on the other hand, is most commonly made from

the bitter branches of palm and olive trees, as well as the roots and branches of desert plants such

as Arak trees (Arak is Arabic for Salvadora persica). Miswak twigs can be obtained from a broad

range of trees, save poisonous or harmful to people, such as pomegranate or myrtle.

It is effective similarly to toothpaste and includes natural antibacterial characteristics that

help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. When the twig is used, gum bleeding and the chance

of developing oral cancer are considerably decreased. Apart from fluoride, which is necessary

for dental health, Miswak contains additional components that aid in protecting the tooth enamel

layer, removing and combating plaque and preserving the tooth enamel layer's color. According

to Bairwa et al. (2020), Miswak contains the ingredient silica,' which is well-known for its ability

to whiten teeth. Miswak cleanses the mouth, prevents dry mouth, and increases salivation; it also

promotes oral tissue regeneration, eliminates accumulated bacteria in the mouth, and clears the

throat while preserving teeth from germs and strengthening the gums. Miswak is available in a

range of concentrations. When properly used, the miswak is claimed to cure existing decay while

promoting gum health, avoiding tooth decay, and alleviating toothaches. Additionally, it should

provide a pleasant scent to the mouth, minimize bad breath, enhance taste sensitivity, and help

tooth and mouth cleansing.

Tooth Attrition
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Attrition can occur on two surfaces of the tooth: the occlusal surface and the proximal end.

According to the research findings, prehistoric humans were more susceptible to these two types

of attrition than modern humans (Handelman, 2018). Periodontitis was shown to be the primary

cause of most severely damaged teeth. A high rate of tooth attrition exposed the pulp cavity,

resulting in the development of periodontitis. According to Skoglund et al. (2013), the peculiar

pattern of tooth attrition during this period was the result of using fibrous debris as "toothpicks"

or the continuous crushing of abrasive meals. Additional evidence of significant occlusal surface

tooth attrition was discovered in around 50,000-year-old prehistoric human skulls (Skoglund et

al., 2013). Besides, numerous severely damaged teeth had pulpitis, indicating periapical

periodontitis. The experts made the following suggestions as a result of their examination:

Extreme attrition disturbs the homeostasis of the periodontal tissue, resulting in occlusive

traumatism (tissue destruction). Additionally, the bacteria pierced the dental crown. They

invaded the pulp cavity, resulting in pathological anomalies in the periapical tissue due to the

tooth structure's high attrition rate. When D'incau et al. (2012) analyzed the teeth of four

Japanese Neolithic Age specimens, he detected significant occlusal surface attrition and a flat

plane morphology dated to around 3000 years B.C. The study's findings indicate that grinding

complex meals and using teeth as tools may cause considerable tooth loss. About 80% of cases

were caused by attrition, defined as the enamel on the occlusal surface completely disintegrating

and exposing the dentin beneath. Erosive teeth decay is inextricably linked to the coarseness of

one's diet and might worsen with age. Anthropologists commonly make inferences about

people's eating patterns and chewing activities during this period based on the degree of tooth

attrition seen in their specimens.

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Periodontal

Periodontitis is a disease that affects individuals worldwide and is particularly prevalent in the

elderly. It has impacted people from all walks of life and nations throughout history. When

archaeologists studied ancient people's jawbones and teeth, they discovered they suffered

periodontitis, a more severe form of dental caries (Kinane et al., 2017). According to recent

research, periodontitis was one of the most prevalent diseases discovered in

5,000–4,000-year-old Egyptian mummies (Arming &Wilson, 2020). The study also examined

four jaw bone specimens found in the Nagoya area between 3000 B.C. and the Japanese

Neolithic Period. According to his results, the alveolar bone resorbs horizontally, particularly in

the front parts. Arming & Wilson also discovered that ancient southwest Asians had a

periodontitis attack rate of 42 percent, much higher than the overall population (about 2000

B.C.). Between 3000 B.C. and 1500 A.D and determined that tooth specimens from individuals

who resided in the Arabian Gulf had a substantial quantity of dental calculus.

Dental Caries

Tooth decay or dental caries is the gradual deterioration of teeth caused by bacteria in the

mouth producing acid. Cavities are available in various colors, including yellow, brown, and

black. Symptoms like discomfort and difficulty eating are possible. There is a possibility that no

symptoms are present. Untreated cavities can result in pain, infection, and tooth loss. Fluoride,

fillings, and crowns are all methods of dental decay treatment. A root canal or tooth extraction

may be necessary in more severe cases. Primary tooth decay affects around 530 million children

globally and will impact 3.5 billion people by 2050 (WHO, 2020). Oral problems are becoming

more prevalent in most low- and middle-income countries, mainly due to urbanization and

changing living conditions.

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This is primarily due to inadequate fluoride exposure and poor community access to oral

health care services. Consumption of commodities associated with oral health problems and

other non-communicable diseases has increased in recent years, owing to the promotion of

sugar-sweetened foods and beverages and cigarettes and alcoholic beverages (PA Media, 2020).

Free sugars in foods and drinks are transformed into acids that erode the tooth's surface in the

presence of plaque. Caries, pain, and, in rare cases, tooth loss and infection, can occur due to the

regular consumption of free sugars, insufficient fluoride exposure, and an inability to remove

plaque adequately with a toothbrush.

Oral Cancer

The most frequent sign of oral cancer is continued growth or sores in the mouth. According to

ACS (2021), around 50,000 people in the US have the disease annually, with males accounting

for 70% of all cases. Oral cancers can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, palate, sinuses, and neck.

Men have a lifetime risk of around 1 in 60 of developing oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer,

whereas women have a lifetime risk of approximately 1 in 140. Additional risk factors

significantly enhance one’s risk of developing mouth or throat cancer (ACS, 2021). Oral cancer

is a relatively common kind of cancer. It is curable in its early stages if diagnosed and treated

correctly when the tumor is tiny and has not spread. Because oral cancer is easily discovered

during a routine examination of the mouth and lips by a healthcare expert or dentist, it is

commonly detected in its early stages.

Toothbrush
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Generally, a soft-bristled toothbrush is the most comfortable and safest option for most

people. Brushes with medium- or hard-bristled bristles may do more harm than good to the

gums, root surface, and protective tooth enamel, depending on the brushing technique used and

the tooth strength of the individual (Capritto, 2021). While brushing, a toothbrush with rounded

tips will provide additional protection to the teeth. According to Capritto (2021), the Oral-B

Genius X 10000 Electric Toothbrush and the Waterpik Complete Care Water Flosser are two of

the best gum health toothbrushes available. These toothbrushes are designed to gently clean the

surface of the teeth, limiting plaque accumulation without causing discomfort, and some may

have a special message or a model designed exclusively for gum care.

On the other side, brushing may increase tooth sensitivity and increase the risk of acquiring

cavities. Excessive brushing may result in gum tissue receding from the teeth. While this may

affect a smile's looks, if the downturn is extreme enough, the roots of the teeth may become

apparent. According to Dr. Gene Romo, DDS, a Chicago-based dentist and consumer consultant

for the American Dental Association, incorrect toothbrush usage can result in tooth and gum

damage, including enamel erosion and receding gums, both of which can result in tooth

sensitivity (ADA).

Flossing

Flossing is a critical oral hygiene habit to establish. Cleaning and dislodging food lodged

between the teeth reduces the number of bacteria and plaque in the mouth, which is beneficial to

one’s health. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth, resulting in cavities and gum disease

(Anuwong Nugroho et al., 2017). Brushing and flossing are effective ways to eradicate plaque.

Flossing between the teeth may help minimize the number of bacteria, plaque, and food particles
ORAL HYGIENE

that build there, hence lowering the risk of dental decay and gum disease. Apart from brushing

and flossing regularly, it is advised that a person visit a dentist at least twice a year. Additionally,

it contributes to maintaining gums' health by preventing them from bleeding for a lengthy period.

Bleeding may continue for up to a week. Regardless of earlier irregularity, flossing is critical for

gum and tooth health restoration. Dental floss may be used at any time to promote the health of

the gums so that one can begin immediately. By removing plaque that accumulates around the

gum line and between the teeth, regular flossing helps prevent gum disease and foul breath.

Flossing should take precedence over brushing when it comes to dental hygiene. A person's

palms should be able to grasp 12 to 18 inches of floss or dental tape tautly.

In comparison, improper flossing can cause damage to the gums, teeth, and dental work, as

well as tooth loss. Occasionally, flossing might result in the release of potentially harmful

microorganisms into the bloodstream, causing sickness. Excessive flossing might result in gum

disease and gingival clefts. Never should a tooth be "sawed" at the base, as this causes friction

with the gums and can damage the enamel. Additionally, dental specialists advise against

"snapping" the floss between the teeth since this applies pressure to the gums and may cause

them to recede.

Mouthwash

Mouthwash is used to clean and refresh the mouth and maintain fresh breath following tooth

cleaning. Additionally, it helps keep the overall health of the mouth and teeth. By using

mouthwash, one may help eliminate bacteria from the mouth and avoid the production of dental

plaque (Anuwong Nugroho et al., 2017). When used correctly, fluoride-containing mouthwash

can help prevent periodontal disease and cavity formation. Consequently, the revitalizing
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experience associated with some of the most popular dental care advertisements in recent history

is generated. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, and one may not require mouthwash

regularly. On the other hand, most dentists highly advise integrating mouthwash into daily and

sleep routines. Additionally, those who suffer from medical conditions such as dry socket, tooth

sensitivity, or xerostomia (often referred to as dry mouth) may benefit from mouthwash. Indeed,

both general and specialist mouthwashes have the potential to become embedded in patients with

gastrointestinal illnesses' treatment regimes.

Except for alcohol-based mouthwashes, commercially available mouthwashes have a low pH

or are highly acidic, with acid levels equivalent to those seen in homemade vinegar. This

accelerates the disintegration of tooth enamel, compounding the adverse effects of the alcohol in

the mouthwash and increasing the risk of dental decay.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste helps prevent gingivitis and tooth decay, two conditions that, if left untreated, can

progress to more serious dental problems. By gently rubbing the surface of the teeth, the

toothbrush and toothpaste eliminate food particles, bacteria, and plaque (Raorane et al., 2018).

Typically, toothpaste contains a taste enhancer and a foaming agent, which aids in simplifying

and improving the brushing experience (Anuwong Nugroho et al., 2017). One should remove the

stains with an abrasive toothpaste if a person has stained teeth due to coffee, tea, or red wine use.

Regular use of abrasive toothpaste increases the possibility of scratching teeth. According to the

American Dental Association, abrasive toothpaste should be used no more than twice a year.

Patients who suffer from bleeding gums, one of the early signs of gum disease, may benefit from

Parodontax. While this medicine does not treat gum disease, it does help reduce plaque build-up.
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Toothpicks

However, to avoid injuring or infecting the gums, people should not clean between their teeth

with hard wooden toothpicks. Toothpicks that are used incorrectly or regularly may cause harm

to previously performed dental work, such as fillings or veneers, if they are not changed

(Anuwong Nugroho et al., 2017). Additionally, toothpicks risk breaking, splintering, and

becoming stuck in the gums. According to dental specialists, using a toothpick cautiously in

case no other choices may be necessary. However, this is risky, and people are not advised to

continue using it. Since toothpicks are sharp objects forced against the teeth and gums, they can

potentially inflict significant harm. While it is abrasive to the gums, it is crucial to remember that

the teeth area directly beneath the gum line is also susceptible to temperature fluctuations.

Toothpicks are a versatile, low-cost, and widely available tool used for various activities.

Additionally, while toothpicks are excellent for cleaning between teeth, they are not meant for

dental cleaning and should not be substituted for flossing or brushing teeth afterward. Flossing is

the most effective removal of food and plaque between the teeth.

Islamic Perspective

Narrated Abu Bakr

the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬said: “The siwak is cleansing to the mouth and pleasing to the Lord”
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Musnad Ahmad 7

Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬said: “Siwak (i.e brushing the teeth) is a means of purification for

the mouth and is pleasing to the lord.”

Sahih An-Nasa’i 5

In the Hadith above Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬he has told us the benefits of brushing the

teeth. The benefits given just for brushing teeth is immense and holds great importance to Allah.

We should take care of our mouth and please Allah everyday with it.

Narrated Aisha:

“Abdur-Rahman bin Abu Bakr entered upon the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬while I was supporting the Prophet

(‫ )ﷺ‬on my chest. `AbdurRahman had a fresh Siwak then and he was cleaning his teeth with it.

Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬looked at it, so I took the Siwak, cut it (chewed it with my teeth), shook it

and made it soft (with water), and then gave it to the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬who cleaned his teeth with it. I

had never seen Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬cleaning his teeth in a better way. After finishing the

brushing of his teeth, he lifted his hand or his finger and said thrice, "O Allah! Let me be with the

highest companions," and then died. `Aisha used to say, "He died while his head was resting

between my chest and chin."

Sahih al-Bukhari 4438

Even during the end of his life the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬brushed his mouth. This Hadith tells us the

true value in brushing, even if it comes down to our last moments.

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} َ‫{ ِإ َّن ٱهَّلل َ ي ُِحبُّ ٱلتَّ َّوٲبِينَ َوي ُِحبُّ ۡٱل ُمتَطَه ِِّرين‬

“Truly Allah loves those who turn unto Him, and loves those who have a care for cleanness.”

(Translated by Dr. Mustafa Khattab)

Surat-ul-Baqarah 2:222

Conclusion

Maintaining excellent dental health is critical for overall health and decreasing pain and

suffering connected with oral illness. It is also crucial for oral disease prevention.

Microorganisms are frequently defeated by the body's natural defenses and by practicing

reasonable oral hygiene procedures such as regular brushing and flossing. Without routine dental

treatment, bacteria in the mouth can grow to hazardous levels, resulting in potentially

life-threatening oral illnesses such as tooth decay and gum disease. Thus, proper cleaning,

flossing, good toothpaste, and regular dental visits help maintain oral hygiene.

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