October 1st marks the beginning of dental hygiene month. Your Woodlands Dental Group wants to emphasize the importance of this month by encouraging you to make sure your oral health regime is in tip-top shape. Keeping up with daily teeth cleaning habits, such as brushing and flossing, keeps your smile happy and healthy — which keeps your Woodlands dentist smiling!
Why is National Dental Hygiene Month Important?
Education around dental hygiene is integral to optimal health and wellness. Neglecting your oral health can lead to serious health complications later in life. Preventative treatment and care are key in dental health, with much of the leg work being done at home. Your dentist in The Woodlands recommends that patients use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as a few swishes with mouthwash to keep your breath extra fresh.
The state of somebody’s oral health provides insight into their body’s overall well-being. The mouth acts as an entry point for a range of bacteria, some good and some not so great. Optimal oral health care provides an additional line of defense against the bad bacteria, effectively protecting the rest of the body from being infiltrated.
Oral Hygiene Tips for Dental Hygiene Month
More than likely, you’re participating in dental hygiene multiple times a day already. Brushing your teeth each morning and evening and keeping up with a flossing routine are both great habits for dental hygiene and gum care. Consistent cleaning prevents plaque from building up, which also decreases the likelihood of infection and gum disease.
A few hygienist-recommended tips for brushing include:
- Brush at least twice a day for at least two minutes.
- Cover all surfaces inside of the mouth, including those hard-to-reach spots.
- Don’t neglect the tongue! Brushing your tongue can help get rid of pesky bacteria.
After brushing at night, flossing is a great way to remove leftover plaque and those sneaky pieces of food that get caught in between teeth. Plaque that’s left to harden over time turns to tartar, which can lead to cavities and tooth decay.
Celebrating Dental Hygiene in The Woodlands, TX
One of the best ways to celebrate Dental Hygiene Month is to make a routine appointment with your local dentist in The Woodlands. If you’re due for a professional teeth cleaning, The Woodlands Dental Group invites you to make an appointment today. Our highly trained staff members provide a welcoming, convenient, and judgment-free experience.
National Dental Hygiene Month is also a great time to take a moment to appreciate all of the hard-working dental hygienists out there. Their dedication to taking care of your smile and promoting healthy dental hygiene habits makes them a fundamental part of the Woodlands community.