Support National Dental Hygiene Month
Dental problems can cause havoc throughout your life depending on how you care for your teeth. This is why it’s so important for you to exercise quality oral hygiene, both at home and by seeing your dentist twice yearly. October is National Dental Hygiene Month. Show your support for this annual observance by committing yourself to your best possible dental routine for the coming year and beyond.
For people with healthy teeth and gums, such a commitment can include teeth straightening, whitening, and bonding. Others start with seeing the dentist and working to reverse signs of gum disease, decay, and other oral health problems.
What Is National Dental Hygiene Month (NDHM)
This October’s NDHM is an effort by the American Dental Association and others to celebrate the work of dental hygienists. This month also serves to help raise awareness of the importance of positive dental health and oral hygiene.
For this annual month-long event, see your dental hygienist at your dentist’s office. Let them help you find new ways to better care for your teeth. If you like the dental health services and care they provide, tell your dental hygienist that you appreciate what they do.
Goals for the 2018 Month and Coming Year
For 2018, the goal of the month is to focus on routines that help you maintain a healthy, vibrant smile. This goal details four points, including:
- Brushing
- Flossing
- Rinsing
- Chewing
The American Dental Association recommends you brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Your toothbrush must fit your mouth and enable you to reach all areas of your teeth, gums, and tongue.
For a proper brushing, use the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Gently move it back and forth in short strokes. Brush all surfaces of each tooth. These surfaces include the outer-facing sides, inner-facing sides, and chewing surfaces.
Don’t forget to brush your tongue at the end of this routine. Doing so keeps your breath fresh and removes bacteria. Once-daily, floss your teeth using a quality dental floss. This helps remove plaque and food debris left between your teeth, where your toothbrush does not reach.
Use a quality dental rinse to reach the other half of your mouth, the surfaces without teeth. This removes biofilm and bacteria not cleansed by brushing or flossing. The fun part of this routine is chewing sugarless gum after each meal, for 20 minutes. This actually helps prevent tooth decay by increasing the flow of saliva.