October is a month dedicated to cooler temperatures, fun costumes, and lots of candy – but it’s also National Dental Hygiene Month! If your seasonal plans include drinking warm, festive drinks and indulging in your favorite sweet treat, then there is no time like the present to prioritize your oral hygiene routine. That way, your favorite fall activities don’t lead to cavities in the New Year. Fortunately, a dentist in Stephens City is sharing five tips for a healthier smile!
#1. Don’t Go to Bed without Brushing Your Teeth
When the weather drops, it can be oh-so-tempting to jump into your cozy covers and leave your oral care routine behind. However, neglecting to brush your teeth before bed allows food particles, plaque, and bacteria to wreak havoc on your oral health. After all, if tooth decay can start 20 minutes after your meal, imagine what it can do with 7+ hours of sleep! To keep your oral health in pristine condition, brush your teeth before bed!
#2. Always Clean Your Tongue
Did you know that 4x as many bad breath-causing bacteria cling to your tongue? If you don’t clean it daily, those bacteria can breed, leaving you vulnerable to bad breath and tooth decay. Fortunately, you can effectively wash it by using your toothbrush or a tongue scraper. Just make sure to be gentle and always work from back to front. That way, you won’t accidentally ingest the substances on your tongue.
#3. Remember, Flossing Is Just as Important
Brushing twice a day is crucial, but alone it only cleans about 60% of each tooth’s surface. So, it’s not hard to see why flossing is so important! Not only can it help clean the remaining 40%, but it can also remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and other hard to reach areas of your mouth. So, make sure to reach for your floss pick or water flosser daily!
#4. Be Mindful of Your Mouthwash
Decades of research have shown that mouthwash can kill over 99% of the germs that cause bad breath and gingivitis – but it has to be used properly to work! Moving it around in the front of your mouth for 10 seconds will not do the trick. Instead, vigorously swish it around for 30 to 60 second so it touches each part of your gums and teeth. If you are ever unsure if you are using it properly, don’t hesitate to read the instructions on the label!
#5. Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
Unfortunately, many patients view their routine dental appointments as simply a quick check for cavities. However, they can do much more than just look for tooth decay! In fact, they can give your teeth a professional cleaning and prevent small concerns from becoming large dental issues. Plus, they can play an instrumental role in the early detection of non-dental issues as well, like oral cancer, osteoporosis, and HIV. So, the next time you consider postponing your bi-yearly visit, remember how it affects your oral and overall health!
National Dental Hygiene Month may initially seem like just another monthly celebration, but it serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize your oral health. That way, you can keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape for years to come!
About the Author
For nearly four decades, Dr. Thomas A. Gromling has helped his community in Stephens City achieve optimal oral health. At each appointment, Dr. Gromling uses his years of hands-on experience, advanced training, and genuine care for his patients’ smiles to create custom, effective treatment plans. If you are overdue for your bi-yearly appointment or your teeth simply need some TLC, visit his website or give him a call at 540-869-4377.