October isn’t just the month of Halloween, it’s also a month filled with national and global holidays, including World Vegetarian Day and National Taco Day. Turns out, it’s also Dental Hygiene Awareness Month! So, if your brushing and flossing routine took a backseat this summer, don’t worry – there’s no time like the present to implement the below oral care habits to get back on track.
1. Replace Your Toothbrush Every Quarter
The American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are two of many public health organizations that recommend replacing your toothbrush every three or four months. If the bristles on yours are worn down or otherwise damaged, then you should get a new one even sooner and avoid applying too much pressure when brushing.
Bonus tip: If you’re in the market for a new toothbrush, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for recommendations! They can help you find one that suits your unique dental needs best.
2. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Brushing twice a day is crucial – it ensures that food particles, plaque, and other debris don’t have the chance to accumulate! Make sure that you’re completing this step of your oral hygiene routine for a full two minutes each time. It’s also important that you use the right tools, like a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
3. Floss and Rinse with an Antimicrobial Mouthwash Daily
Since brushing alone only cleans about 60% of the surface of your teeth, it’s of the utmost importance that you floss and rinse with mouthwash just as consistently. Of course, it can be difficult to develop this habit at first, but setting reminders on your phone or placing a Post-It Note on your bathroom mirror can help exponentially!
4. Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup and Cleaning
If your next checkup and cleaning isn’t on the calendar yet, what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to make sure your second visit of 2023 or your first visit of 2024 is on the books. Remember, these biannual visits play a crucial role in catching tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other serious health concerns early on.
5. Focus on Adding More Nutrient-Dense Foods to Your Plate
Taking sugary treats, like soda and ice cream, off the table can be difficult. That’s why patients often have more success focusing on what they can add to their diet instead. Cooked vegetables, fresh fruits, and dairy products are a great place to start since they help keep your teeth and gums healthy!
About the Doctor
Dr. Timothy Zajac’s career in dentistry began after graduating with honors from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. To this day, he prioritizes continuing education and participates in the American Dental Association, the Mass Dental Society, and the Worcester Dental Society. If you have any questions about your oral health – from how to brush properly to how often you should come in for a checkup and cleaning – don’t hesitate to get in touch with him via his website or by phone at (774) 255-7345.
