Every October, dental professionals come together to observe National Dental Hygiene Month, which is a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of a consistent oral care routine. That said, when it comes to this, it’s all about the little things—and many daily habits can actually make or break your overall dental health. Here are three tips that are important year-round but are worth highlighting this month!
1. Brush Twice a Day, the Right Way
It may sound basic, but brushing correctly matters just as much as brushing often. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and be sure to brush for a full two to three minutes, two times each day (in the morning and in the evening is best). As for technique, angle your brush at a 45 degree angle and use gentle, circular motions rather than aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing, so you don’t irritate your gums or wear down your enamel. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too!
2. Flossing Is Just as Important as Brushing
Unfortunately, brushing alone can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth, which is exactly where plaque and food particles like to hide. In fact, brushing alone only cleans around 60% of the total surface area of your teeth, which is barely over half! Flossing once a day helps to remove this buildup that is missed by your toothbrush, before it leads to cavities and gum disease. If traditional floss is difficult to use, you can always use floss stick or a water flosser to make things easier.
3. Mind Your Diet
What you eat can actually plays a bigger role in oral health than many people realize. Sugary snacks and acidic drinks can erode enamel and feed the bacteria that cause decay. Try to limit sugary treats, stay hydrated with water throughout the day, and opt for smile-friendly snacks like crunchy vegetables, cheese, yogurt, fresh fruit, and lean proteins.
In addition to all these tips, if it’s been longer than six months since your last dental visit, be sure to schedule one soon—these appointments are key in preventing issues that might go unnoticed by yourself at home!
About the Author
Dr. Joseph Costa received his DMD cum laude in a special field from the Harvard University School of Dental Medicine and has proudly served the needs of patients and families in Worcester and the surrounding communities for several years. Under his leadership, our office offers a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, including routine dental care to keep your smile healthy year-round. If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, you can reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (508) 755-1980.
