Every year during the month of October, the American Dental Hygienists Association celebrates Dental Hygiene Month to help spread awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene and best practices for caring for your teeth and gums every day.
This year, the focus is on the “daily four”:
1. Brush (twice a day)
2. Floss (daily)
3. Rinse (with mouthwash)
4. Chew (sugar-free gum)
Let’s break down what each of these should look like on a daily basis in order to have a good oral hygiene routine and keep your mouth healthy.
Brushing Twice a Day
Brushing teeth in the morning upon waking and before bed at night is one of the most important things you can do to keep teeth healthy. Every time you eat or drink anything other than water, your mouth has to fight off an acid attack that occurs as the chemicals in the food and drink interact with the natural bacteria in your mouth.
Floss Daily
This is hands down the most hated part of everyone’s oral hygiene routine, according to research. Although we may not like to floss, it’s extremely important for the health of your teeth and even more so for the health of your gums. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, and flossing helps prevent this disease.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Everyone loves to have fresh breath, and the easiest way to do that between brushing is to rinse with mouthwash. Most stores now sell small, travel-size bottles of mouthwash that can easily be put in your purse, backpack or briefcase for on the go too!
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Did you know that recent research has shown that chewing sugar-free gum can actually help prevent cavities? It’s true! So, next time you’re in a convenience store or the grocery store, pick up a pack of your favorite flavor of sugar-free gum and help your teeth fight off those cavities.
For more dental hygiene tips or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 425-212-1975.
