Now that it’s October, you’re likely making plans for the upcoming Halloween festivities. However, this season is also known as National Dental Hygiene Month! This is the time to commit to preserving your oral health so that you can enjoy a strong and clean smile for many years to come. While you might practice a diligent dental care routine, there’s always room to spruce up your technique. Read on to learn five tips on keeping your pearly whites in pristine condition from your dentist in Mt. Vernon.
Tip #1: Floss Every Day
While most people brush their teeth regularly, many of them forget to also floss. This is one of the most important parts of your oral hygiene routine, as the dental strand will be able to clean the areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing allows you to remove debris, food particles, and plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline, effectively preventing gum disease and decay.
Tip #2: Brush Twice Daily
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day (morning and evening) for two minutes each. If you neglect to scrub your mouth before bed, you may end up allowing bacteria and plaque to grow, increasing the risk of gum disease, decay, and even halitosis (bad breath). Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid wearing down your enamel, and use fluoridated toothpaste.
Tip #3: Rinse with Mouthwash
Rinsing with mouthwash frequently is a great way to finish off your dental cleaning routine. These products benefit your smile by reducing the amount of acids in your mouth, cleaning hard-to-reach places, and remineralizing your pearly whites. Make sure you stick to proper brushing and flossing, as mouthwash should only be in addition to your normal oral hygiene.
Tip #4: Maintain a Healthy Diet
Sugar is one of the most detrimental ingredients for your oral health. It can convert to acid in your mouth, eroding your enamel and resulting in cavities. To avoid these complications, you’ll want to minimize how often you consume sugars and stick to healthier options. These may include crunchy fruits, veggies, and dairy products to help stimulate saliva production, which naturally washes away bacteria.
Tip #5: Schedule Routine Checkups & Cleanings
By visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings, they’ll be able to monitor your oral health and thoroughly polish your teeth. This will allow them to catch any developing issues and address them early on before they can worsen over time. You’ll also be able to save more money from needing more costly treatments later on.
Keep an eye on your oral health during National Dental Hygiene Month! By using these few tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a strong and clean smile for the spooky season and beyond.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck earned his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He’s also a member of numerous groups like the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. He offers a wide range of high-quality services, including dental checkups/cleanings, periodontal therapy, and oral cancer screenings. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 740-392-6156.