Since 2009, October has been recognized as National Dental Hygiene Month. As the name suggests, this is a time when people are encouraged to take a second look at their dental hygiene routines and see if there’s any room for improvement. How can you observe National Dental Hygiene Month this year? Here are 3 suggestions from your dentist.
1. Change the Way You Brush Your Teeth
There’s a very good chance that you’re already brushing your teeth twice daily, but whether you’re brushing well is another story. For one thing, you need to make sure that you’re spending enough time on the task; ideally, each brushing session should last two minutes. Additionally, it’s important to hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to ensure that your gumline isn’t being overlooked.
You should also think about the kind of toothbrush and toothpaste that you use. A hard-bristled toothbrush could damage your teeth, so pick one with soft bristles. And when you go to buy some toothpaste at the store, make sure that it contains fluoride. (Check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance; all ADA-approved brands of toothpaste must include fluoride as an ingredient.)
2. If You Don’t Already Floss, Start Now
Do you not floss as consistently as you brush your teeth? In the long term, this could lead to problems with your oral health. Plaque can build up in the spaces between your teeth, contributing to gum disease that can ultimately lead to tooth loss if it’s not treated in time. Since toothbrushes aren’t very effective for cleaning between the teeth, flossing is an essential step for maintaining a clean smile.
Some people find it difficult to pick up the habit of flossing because they have trouble using traditional string floss. If you’re having this issue, you may want to think about picking up a water flosser or some interdental brushes instead.
3. Add Mouthwash to Your Dental Hygiene Regimen
Brushing and flossing tend to come to mind immediately when the topic of dental hygiene comes up. But what about rinsing with mouthwash? It’s often dismissed as optional, but it could actually make a significant difference in reducing the level of harmful bacteria living in your mouth. If you want to keep your risk of gum disease to a minimum (and would like fresher breath as a side benefit), then you should get into the habit of using mouthwash every day.
Excellent dental hygiene is the key to maintaining a healthy smile for life. If you have been thinking of updating your dental hygiene routine, make sure to let your dentist know; they may have a few helpful suggestions.
About the Author
Dr. Eric L. Tolliver studied dentistry at the University of Missouri – Kansas City and eventually graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery. He is a past president of the Greater Springfield Dental Society as well as a past delegate of the Missouri Dental Association. He’s happy to work with patients of all ages in order to help them take better care of their smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Tolliver at Galleria Dental of Springfield, visit his website or call (417) 887-5757.