Why We Recognize National Dental Hygiene Month
October is known for many things, like perfect weather and pumpkin spice. However, we’re also celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month.
Founded in 2009 by the American Dental Hygienists Association, this annual event is designed to remind people about the importance of dental hygiene and celebrate the more than 200,000 dental hygienists in the U.S. who work hard to improve adults' and children's oral health.
How Dental Hygienists Protect Oral Health
Your dental hygienist is a licensed professional who works to prevent, detect, and treat oral disease. They receive their license after graduating from an accredited dental hygiene program and taking a clinical and written national board exam.
When visiting our practice, your dental hygienist may:
Perform dental x-rays.
Review your health history, gum health, dental charting, and oral cancer screenings.
Eliminate plaque and tartar buildup from above and below your gum line.
Apply professional fluoride treatment and dental sealants to help prevent cavities.
Offer education and specific recommendations on proper dental hygiene techniques to maintain and enhance your unique smile.
Guide you to develop a personalized at-home oral hygiene routine to include diet and wellness habits.
These services and opportunities for education center around helping you achieve great oral health so you can have a beautiful smile for life. By routinely combating dental disease through regular visits with your hygienist, you can prevent significant tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and other systemic diseases connected to poor oral health.
How to Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month
Every October, we spread awareness of the importance of oral hygiene and its connection to whole body wellness. Here are just a few ways you can celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month.
1. Maintain a Great At-Home Oral Hygiene Routine
Make your dental hygienist proud by practicing great oral health habits outside of the dentist's office. You can do this by:
Brushing Your Teeth Twice a Day: You should brush your teeth every morning and right before bed for at least two minutes. This practice helps remove daily plaque build up and decreases your risk of developing gum disease.
Flossing Daily: Flossing helps remove stubborn plaque below your gum line. Flossing daily also improves the appearance of your gums, prevents gingivitis, and removes bad breath-causing bacteria more effectively than a toothbrush.
These foundational practices make up a good oral health routine. By making them a habit, you'll continue the good work your dental hygienist performs at your appointments.
2. Visit Your Dental Hygienist Regularly
Routine visits with your hygienist will ensure your hygienist has the opportunity to provide excellent oral care. Consistent appointments will prevent oral disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues. With each hygiene screening, you'll feel empowered and confident that your oral health is on track.
3. Refer a friend
The greatest compliment you can give your hygienist is to invite a friend or family member to our practice. Your hygienist wants our entire community to feel the benefits of great oral health. If you know anyone who may be avoiding the dentist due to anxiety or fear, dental pain, or a poor experience with their dental team, invite them to schedule a visit with us.
Help Raise Awareness
National Dental Hygiene Month should be an event everyone knows about and celebrates. Let your friends, family, and neighbors know that National Dental Hygiene Month is the best time to remember the importance of maintaining great oral health and having a beautiful smile.