Many people see October as the start of the holiday season. It’s time to indulge in your favorite treats and spend quality time with your loved ones. However, many dental offices see it as the start of National Dental Hygiene Month! Keeping up with your smile can help you feel confident for any plans you have coming up and beyond. Keep reading to learn four tips to add to your routine to protect your oral health.
1.) Brush Your Teeth Properly
Since you were younger, you might’ve heard the importance of brushing twice a day for at least two minutes. It’s crucial in helping keep your mouth free of any problem-causing bacteria, but are you doing it properly? Here’s what to know:
- Use fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Brush toward your gumline at a 45-degree angle.
- Do short, gentle tooth-wide strokes on the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Just be sure not to scrub too hard.
2.) Don’t Ignore Flossing
You might imagine brushing alone is enough to keep your smile strong. However, flossing is a great way to get in between your teeth. Your toothbrush can’t effectively reach these spaces, so doing this handy habit is important. Do it at least once a day and work to make it a part of your routine. Getting rid of food debris can help you avoid cavities and inflamed gums.
3.) Follow a Balanced Diet
Not only is your oral hygiene a part of a healthy grin, but also what you eat! Sugary foods and drinks can increase your risk of decay because they feed the harmful bacteria in your mouth. Crunchy and especially hard items can increase your risk of damage as well.
Instead, stock up on leafy greens, lean proteins, and dairy products. These are full of nutrients that can support your mouth and body. Follow them with plenty of water, and you may be set up for greater success!
4.) Visit Your Dentist
Brushing and flossing are just half of proper dental hygiene. The other is a visit to your dentist. No matter how diligent you are with your routine, there may be some places that you can’t reach.
It can lead to hardened plaque, which can’t be removed by regular brushing. Your provider has special instruments they’ll use during a cleaning that can remove them. They will also be able to take care of minor problems before they become a major headache in the future.
Following these easy tips is a great way to keep your smile strong during National Dental Hygiene Month and beyond! Add them to your routine and be sure to give your dental team thanks after your next checkup.
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Dean earned his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. He now has over 25 years of experience that he uses to give the Covington community the highest-quality care they deserve. Dr. Dean and his team are here to help keep your teeth the best they can be through preventive care. If it’s time for your next semi-annual appointment, schedule an appointment or call his office at (770) 786-3915.