Ok, so teeth might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about October. We thought it’d be an excellent idea to take some time to dedicate the well-deserved blog space to our outstanding team of dental hygienists at our dental offices in The Woodlands. Their dedication to keeping teeth happy and healthy while creating lasting relationships with patients is truly a remarkable part of what we do for you.
Why is October National Dental Hygiene Month?
National Dental Hygiene Month is a time to recognize the hard work and comprehensive care that our Woodlands dental hygienists provided for patients like you each day. The event is sponsored by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and the Wrigley Oral Healthcare Program (WOHP). It’s designed to increase awareness of how proper dental hygiene is crucial to maintaining a healthy mouth and a healthy body. According to the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), there is a link between oral health and several whole-body concerns such as:
– Heart disease
– Diabetes
– Stroke
– Premature or low birth weight
– And more
Don’t Forget to Focus on Your “Daily Four”
There are four things you need to do at home to keep your smile healthy, along with your regular cleanings with one of your dental hygienists at one of our Woodlands dental offices. We’re pretty sure you know these steps like the back of your hand, but a little refresher can never hurt.
1) Brushing – Twice a day for two minutes is good advice for parents and kids alike
2) Flossing – Once a day will do your teeth and gums a mouthful of good
3) Rinsing – Splash some water all around to rinse free any remaining debris
4) Chewing – When you can’t brush after a meal, chew a piece of sugarless gum instead
The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests there are certain easy guidelines you can follow to get the most out of your brushing routine. You should select a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small, gentle circular motion instead of a back and forth scrubbing technique to reduce potential damage to your enamel.
We Can Help You Stay Away from Tooth Decay
Our mouths (particularly our teeth) are busy day in and day out, subjected to a variety of foods, beverages, grinding, clenching, etc. Over time, your teeth might begin to wear or even break down due to this exposure. What comes next is dental decay, the most significant cause of tooth damage and the most common disease found in humans. Dental plaque is the biggest cause of tooth decay.
Our careful, diligent dental hygiene teams at our Woodlands Dental offices have the advanced skills and training to be on the lookout for any signs of damage to your smile. That’s why it’s so important to see them regularly. The earlier we catch oral issues, the less likely you’ll need restorative care to fix:
– Cavities or decay
– Old, failing fillings
– Worn down teeth from grinding and clenching
– Eroded enamel and tooth structure due to acids in our body and foods
– Fillings that are too large for your teeth
– Cracked, broken teeth and fillings
Always remember to see your dental hygienist regularly. They care about you and your overall health too. Your time with them will help keep your teeth strong and your smile bright. If you’re reading this and you’re considering a new dental home, learn more about The Woodlands Dental Group online today. We’re always happy to welcome patients of all ages into our comprehensive family of dental health professionals and specialists.