Time to Celebrate Dental Hygiene

When October rolls around every year, a parent begins to put up their sugar radars. After all, Halloween’s sole purpose seems to be centered around sugar consumption. So, it is quite apropos that each October, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) celebrates National Dental Hygiene Month. We all know that the way to a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime is maintaining proper dental hygiene, so this month serves to remind the public about the importance of dental hygiene. In order to protect your teeth from harm, focus on these four simple steps:

Brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing helps remove bacteria and food particles that turn into plaque over time. Brushing helps remove plaque, prevents tooth decay, and strengthens enamel.

Floss every day. While brushing can clean the surface, flossing allows you to remove food from between teeth that cannot be reached with a toothbrush.

Rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash. Mouthwash not only rinses away remaining food particles, but also helps kill bacterial colonies that cause oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay.

Chew sugar-free gum. Sugar-free gum has a number of benefits – it encourages production of saliva, keeping teeth clean, and the sugar-free sweetener (Xylitol) has anti-bacterial properties, which helps fight tooth decay.

Keeping your teeth bright and healthy isn’t difficult. It just takes a few minutes a day. Use National Dental Hygiene Month to evaluate your family’s oral hygiene – be sure you’re meeting all four focus points to make your next dental checkup a pleasant one.

If you have questions or concerns about dental bonding, make an appointment today with Dr. Farless at 336-282-2868 or visit our website at www.gsodentist.com.

Dr. Farless also proudly serves Greensboro, Brown Summit, Jamestown, High Point, McLeansville, Summerfield and all surrounding areas.