Did you know that October is Dental Hygiene Awareness Month? It’s easy to miss it in the excitement of autumn festivities. With pumpkin spice in every baked good and Halloween candy crowding every store, there’s no better time to remember how important it is to care for your teeth properly. After all, the right preventative measures now can keep your pearly whites sparkling all season! Keep reading to learn 4 tips that will keep your mouth healthy this fall.
Tip #1: Brush Daily
Brushing is one of the simplest and easiest ways to prevent tooth decay. It removes any toxic buildup that erodes your protective enamel so you’re less likely to develop cavities.
It’s important to brush at least twice each day; once in the morning and again before bed at night. To make sure your teeth are getting a thorough clean, it’s important to:
- Brush for two minutes minimum during each session.
- Hold the toothbrush toward your gums at a 45-degree angle.
- Gently move it over your teeth in short back-and-forth strokes.
- Clean all outer surfaces you can reach.
- Adjust the toothbrush vertically to brush along the inner surfaces.
- Remember to brush your tongue to clear any bacteria.
Tip #2: Floss Regularly
Though it may be tempting to skip this step, it’s just as important as brushing. Microbes can gather in places your toothbrush can’t penetrate, like between your teeth or below your gumline. If left to flourish, you could end up with gum disease which is hard to detect in the early stages. That means you might not know you have it until you start seeing signs, like gum recession, which is irreversible. Flossing helps you avoid these concerns before they even come up.
Tip #3: Rinse with Mouthwash
Pesky particles can hide in other places in your mouth, too, so it’s important to follow up with a rinse for a complete cleanse. For extra protection, opt for an antimicrobial mouthwash to eliminate any remaining germs after brushing and flossing. This will not only keep your pearly whites shining, but it’ll keep your breath minty fresh, too!
Tip #4: Maintain Dental Visits
One final thing you can do this month to keep your mouth pristine is to schedule your next oral checkup. You should see your dentist once every 6 months for an oral examination. They’ll be able to spot any issues and address them before they can progress.
If you don’t already have a consistent dental routine in place, why not start today? That way you can enjoy your favorite fall feasts without worrying about your teeth!
About the Author
Dr. Annie Yu has over 15 years of experience transforming patients’ smiles and boosting their confidence. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, followed by an intensive postgraduate residency program at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Our dedicated team uses advanced technology for top-of-the-line care that leaves you with long-lasting results. You’re welcome to request an appointment on our website or by calling (240) 332-1599.