The air is crisper, the leaves are changing colors, and October is officially here. Do you know what that means? It’s National Dental Hygiene Month! This special time of the year serves as an annual reminder to practice daily habits that promote healthy teeth and gums. Although you should be taking excellent care of your mouth year-round, October is the perfect time to be more aware of your dental health. Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month by adding the following oral hygiene tips to your day-to-day routine.
Brush Your Teeth Before Bed
To maintain good oral health, everyone knows you must brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Unfortunately, many people still don’t follow this general recommendation and neglect brushing at night. It’s a crucial step to eliminate plaque, bacteria, and food particles that accumulate on your teeth throughout the day. Skipping it can increase your risk of decay, cavities, and even gum disease.
Use a Proper Brushing Technique
It may surprise you to learn that the way you brush is just as important as how often you do it. In fact, doing it poorly can do more harm than good for your oral health – it’s almost as bad as not brushing at all! Unremoved plaque can harden, leading to calculus buildup and gingivitis (early gum disease). To keep your mouth as clean as possible, be mindful of your brushing technique. Take your time and move the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque.
Clean Your Tongue
Did you know that plaque, bacteria, and food particles can also build up on your tongue? They can easily get trapped in the grooves and crevices on your tongue, contributing to bad breath and other oral health problems if left there. With that said, don’t forget to clean your tongue every time you brush your teeth. It’s crucial for maintaining good oral health!
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
If you’ve ever gone shopping for a new toothpaste, you’re likely familiar with the seemingly endless number of options available. But no matter which version you choose, always make sure it contains fluoride! It’s an essential mineral that provides a protective barrier for your teeth, fighting off germs that lead to tooth decay and cavities.
Floss Once a Day
It may seem like no big deal to skip flossing, but it’s actually just as important as brushing. By skipping this vital step, you’re missing out on several health benefits! It helps stimulate the gums, reduce plaque, and lower inflammation in the area. Plus, it can help decrease your risk of gum disease!
This month, try to be more aware of your dental care. By adding the oral hygiene tips outlined above to your daily routine, you can maintain a strong, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!
About the Practice
At North Garland Family Dental, we offer comprehensive and high-quality dental services that are guaranteed to meet all your oral health needs. From a standard checkup to a complete smile makeover, we’ve got everything you need to help you obtain your healthiest, happiest smile. For more oral hygiene tips, visit our website or call (972) 530-7979.
