National Dental Hygiene Month doesn't have to be spooky
Oct. 26, 2022
By Katie Minor
October is the height of spooky season – Halloween is coming up and the decorations are coming out. And even if you are too old to go trick or treating, now is the perfect time to eat some sugary treats.
But what isn’t spooky about October is Dental Hygiene Awareness Month.
I know, I know – a dental hygiene lecture right before it’s time to pig out on candy? Don’t worry, I won’t ruin the fun. Having sweet treats now and then is not detrimental to your oral health, and you will be hard pressed to find many dentists who don’t help themselves to some sugar in moderation.
Like most things in life, you can enjoy things like sugar and soda in moderation while still enjoying a healthy lifestyle. As long as you pair your sweeter habits with healthy meals and lots of water, you can keep your healthy smile.
Practicing good oral hygiene is all about having a solid routine. It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
Brush
You should brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Be sure to use fluoride toothpaste and don’t forget to brush your tongue to get rid of bacteria.
Floss
Your toothbrush can’t reach every part of your mouth, which is why flossing is so crucial. You should floss at least once a day to get rid of plaque and small particles of food that get stuck in your teeth. Flossing greatly reduces the risk of tooth decay.
Visit your dentist regularly
Visiting your dentist can be daunting for some people, but it really could not be more helpful. Whether you go for a teeth cleaning or to take care of some cavities, going to the dentist could make all the difference for your oral health. It’s recommended that you have a regular dental checkup every six months.
If you’re looking for the right fit for you or your child’s dental needs, you might be interested in our services. MCHD Dentistry is known for our friendly team, professional and updated equipment and wide range of services.
Only around 50-60% of adults see their dentist yearly. It’s important to have a dentist you like and trust. That goes for children, too – it’s important to get your child started at the dentist as early as possible so they can always be comfortable coming back to the dental chair as they grow older.
If you bring your little one to the MCHD Dentistry, know that our top priority is making sure to build a positive relationship with your child with an easy first visit. You might want to hold your child on your lap while our team conducts a dental exam, or if your child is older, sit in the waiting room so our staff can build a relationship with them.
All of this is detailed on our Child’s First Visit page on our new website, which has everything you need to know about our dentistry program! You can head over to the Dentistry page to learn more about our services. You can make an appointment by calling 304-598-5108.
Dental hygiene is about more than just a good-looking smile – although having healthy teeth and gums will make you want to show them off!
Katie Minor is the public information office assistant at Monongalia County Health Department.