National Dental Hygiene Month, celebrated throughout October, is a collaborative effort between the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and Colgate. It aims to celebrate the hard work of dental hygienists while also offering an opportunity to highlight for patients certain oral health tips and best practices to help optimize oral health.
Here's a guide to help you make the most of this month and keep your smile looking radiant and healthy!
The Importance of Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are a crucial part of maintaining dental hygiene for everyone in the family. Here are a few of the main reasons why:
- Professional cleanings. Dental hygienists can remove plaque and tartar buildup more effectively than we can with at-home solutions.
- Early detection and preventive care. Regular exams allow your dentist to identify and quickly treat oral health issues in their early stages, preventing more significant problems and more costly and painful treatments in the future.
- Personalized care. When your dentist and dental hygienist are familiar with your dental health history and profile, they are able to provide tailored advice on treatments and dental care products that are best suited for you.
An Early Commitment to Dental Hygiene for Children
Encouraging good dental hygiene habits in children is vital for their long-term oral health. Here are some tips on how best to do so:
- Start early. Dental care begins as soon as your child's first tooth appears. For this, use a soft cloth or an infant toothbrush to clean their gums.
- Use a child-friendly toothbrush. As your child grows, a fun, colorful, soft-bristled toothbrush designed to fit comfortably in their hand will encourage regular brushing.
- Make dental care fun! Engage children with playful brushing techniques, games, colorful toothbrushes, and flavored (but still fluoride) toothpaste.
- Schedule regular dental visits. Schedule your child's first dental appointment by their first birthday and continue with regular check-ups as they grow up to make dental exams and a commitment to oral health part of their daily lives.
As we celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month, take the opportunity to reinforce your dental hygiene habits, schedule a routine checkup, and encourage those around you to do the same!
Protecting and Maintaining Bright, Healthy Smiles in Wilmington, DE
If you’re in the Wilmington area and want to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month with a dental care team that will both help you and your family optimize your at-home oral health practices and provide quality preventive and corrective care when you need it, contact dentist Dr. Jason Justison and the Justison & Gladnick Family Dentistry team to schedule an appointment!
