It's National Dental Hygiene Month! Here's How To Honor It
Posted on 8/18/2023 by Cantella Dental
Every year, we recognize National Dental Hygiene Month to help underscore the work our dental hygienists do promoting clean teeth and good oral health. In 2019, the focus of the month is on the four key steps that create a healthy smile: brushing, flossing, rinsing, and chewing. Keep reading to learn more about these ingredients and how you can make sure they are integrated into your dental hygiene routine for a healthier, happier smile.
Importance of Preventive Care
The best way to prevent tooth loss and related issues is by taking the steps to prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease from occurring in the first place. The Centers for Disease Control states that over 30 percent of adults aged 20 to 44 have untreated dental caries, or cavities - and that means many people will wake up one morning with an abscessed tooth, or worse. In fact, in the most severe cases, untreated tooth decay can lead to death.
Fortunately, cavities can be detected early or prevented altogether with routine preventive care and a solid dental hygiene routine performed at-home. And that’s why we celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month!
Brush, Floss, Rinse, and Chew
Make sure you are following the key steps for cavity and gum disease prevention. They are:
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Brush: Folks of all ages should brush their teeth for two minutes, at least twice a day, every single day. Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and help fight tooth decay even more.
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Floss: Over 32 percent of people in the United States say they never floss according to US News and World Report, but this step is just as crucial (if not more so) than brushing. Use 18 to 20 inches of clean floss to clean between teeth daily.
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Rinse: Alcohol-free mouthwash is a great supplement to an already strong dental hygiene routine. While it never replaces brushing and flossing, rinsing can help to fight bacteria and keep your breath fresher for longer.
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Chew: Popping a piece of sugar-free gum in your mouth between meals doesn’t just perk up your breath, studies show the ingredient xylitol can actually help to fight cavities. That’s a great bonus!
Book A Visit Before The Year Is Up
In addition to the magic ingredients listed above, all healthy smiles rely on routine 6-month visits with the dentist. During a regular checkup and cleaning, your dentist and hygienist will work together to identify any existing or potential issues and provide the intervention you need ASAP. If you have yet to have two checkups and cleanings in 2019, there is still time before the year is up! Go ahead and book yours today and feel great knowing you’re doing what you can to keep your teeth healthy and clean for years to come.
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Every year, we recognize National Dental Hygiene Month to help underscore the work our dental hygienists do promoting clean teeth and good oral health. In 2019, the focus of the month is on the four key steps that create a healthy smile: brushing, flossing, rinsing, and chewing. Keep reading to learn more about these ingredients and how you can make sure they are integrated into your dental hygiene routine for a healthier, happier smile.