As October brings the festivities of Halloween, it also marks National Dental Hygiene Month! Embrace this month by expressing your commitment to a healthy smile and elevating your oral hygiene practices. Are you wondering how to achieve this? If so, then keep reading to explore four crucial oral hygiene tips to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month and nurture your vibrant, pearly whites.
Tip #1: Drink More Water
Hydrating with water not only benefits your overall health but also contributes to a healthier smile. Preventing dry mouth, a condition linked to cavities, gum disease, and mouth sores, water intake aids in washing away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of oral health issues.
Tip #2: Brush Frequently
Maintaining a healthy smile involves brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each time. Opt for a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent enamel damage, and choose toothpaste containing fluoride to fortify your teeth against decay.
Tip #3: Flossing Every Day
Flossing is as crucial as brushing, eliminating 40% of plaque and significantly reducing the risk of cavities between teeth. If traditional floss is challenging, consider a water flosser, especially beneficial for individuals with conditions like arthritis.
Tip #4: Eat a Mouth-Healthy Diet
Reduce your intake of sugary treats to prevent cavity formation, and consume high-carb and starchy foods in moderation, as they break down into sugar. Additionally, opt for tooth-healthy foods like fresh fruits, vegetables (such as pears, apples, celery, and carrots), low-fat dairy products, lean meats (chicken, lean beef, and turkey), and nuts (like almonds and Brazil nuts).
Tip #5: See Your Dentist Twice a Year
Initiate regular dental checkups every six months to uphold optimal oral health. These biannual visits involve comprehensive teeth cleaning and a thorough examination of your oral cavity. If any issues are detected, your dentist will discuss appropriate treatments to prevent further complications.
Maintaining a healthy smile during a candy-centric month may seem challenging, but National Dental Hygiene Month provides the ideal opportunity to implement the aforementioned oral hygiene tips. Whether preserving your beautiful smile or striving for the vibrant and healthy grin you desire, now is the perfect time to take action!
About the Practice
Dr. Erin Peters leads the team of dental health professionals at Erin Dental, providing a comprehensive range of dental treatments, from routine checkups to addressing oral health issues promptly. They also offer guidance on the best products to maintain a healthy and bright smile during National Dental Hygiene Month as well as year-round. If you want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Peters and her team or are interested in learning more about Erin Dental, you can visit their website or contact their Little Ferry office at (201) 641-9119.