As we enter October, it's the perfect moment to focus on a crucial element of our well-being: dental hygiene. This month is dedicated to promoting awareness about the significance of maintaining excellent oral health habits. Here are some helpful tips for enhancing your dental hygiene during National Dental Hygiene Month:
The importance of effective dental care
Keeping your pearly whites in check is like having a superhero shield against cavities, gum disease, and bad breath! Plus, your mouth isn’t just a pretty smile; it’s a gateway to your health. Oral infections can spread bacteria to the bloodstream, potentially causing serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. So, brush, floss, and keep your teeth and gums happy for a lifetime of health and happiness!
Is flossing really necessary?
When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, most people are aware of the importance of brushing their teeth. However, an equally vital practice that often goes overlooked is flossing. While brushing effectively cleans the surfaces of your teeth, it is flossing that targets the tight spaces between teeth and along the gumline—areas that a toothbrush simply cannot reach.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends flossing at least once a day to maintain optimal oral health. Flossing can help prevent the buildup of plaque, reduce the risk of gingivitis and other forms of gum disease, and contribute to fresher breath.
While brushing lays the groundwork for oral care, flossing is the key to a comprehensive approach to dental hygiene. By making flossing a regular part of your routine, you can help safeguard your teeth and gums against the threats posed by plaque and debris.
The importance of proper brushing for oral hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not only for a healthy mouth but also for overall health. Proper brushing techniques play a pivotal role in achieving this goal. Here are several compelling reasons why proper brushing is crucial.
- Prevents Tooth Decay
Regular brushing effectively removes food particles and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. If plaque is allowed to accumulate, it can lead to cavities. Using fluoride toothpaste enhances this protective measure by strengthening tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. - Protects Against Gum Disease
Brushing your teeth properly is vital for removing plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that can irritate and infect the gums. By keeping plaque at bay, you can prevent gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. If gingivitis is neglected, it can escalate into more serious forms of periodontal disease. - Promotes Fresh Breath
Bad breath is often a direct result of poor oral hygiene. Regular brushing, including brushing your tongue, helps eliminate the bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odors. This practice ensures that your breath remains fresh throughout the day. - Boosts Overall Health
There is a significant link between oral health and overall health. Research has indicated that gum disease is associated with various health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. By practicing proper brushing, you can lower the risk of developing these serious conditions.
Incorporating proper brushing techniques into your daily routine is a small but significant investment in your long-term health and well-being. By prioritizing your oral hygiene, you are taking essential steps toward a healthier life.
Smoking and the affects on oral health
While it’s common knowledge that smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to a number of health problems, David A. Albert, DDS, an associate professor at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, points out the effect of tobacco on oral health:
"Studies have found that tobacco use may be one of the biggest risk factors in the development of periodontal disease.”
Even more insidious, the act of smoking or chewing tobacco can render you less capable of noticing symptoms of serious oral health concerns as well.
“Smokers have much less gum bleeding and redness than other people even though their mouths are not healthy. This can lead to the false impression that the gums are healthy. It is therefore very important that tobacco smokers have regular dental exams to evaluate their gum health,” Albert said.
Take it from the experts:
- Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
- Brush at least twice a day
- Floss (the right way) at least once a day
- See your dentist at least twice a year
If you’re not in those healthy mouth habits yet, use National Dental Hygiene Month as the basis of an oral health turnaround.
For more information on ways to save on dental care, contact us to learn how our dental discount card can provide 20%-50% off the regular cost of dental care.