We all know that the month of October is known for the Halloween festival and the loads of candy that come along with it. It’s only right, then, for dentists to utilize this time of the year to raise awareness about the importance of keeping children’s teeth and gums clean. Thus, October has been designated as National Dental Hygiene Month. As you continue reading, you’ll discover why it’s important to take notice of and how visiting your dentist for teeth cleaning in Denton can make a world of difference!
Do We Really Need National Dental Hygiene Month?
It may seem that everybody should already know the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth correctly and on a regular basis, but the reality is that, for different reasons, people can become negligent. Thus, one of the goals of dental professionals is to raise awareness about the importance of dental hygiene so that it’s not overlooked.
This is vital given that over half the adult population in America suffers from some form of gum disease, which is when the soft tissue becomes infected from bacteria and plaque accumulation. Thankfully, by practicing proper dental hygiene, the condition can be avoided.
These Two Practices Should be Staples
The two most important dental hygienic habits to uphold are to brush and floss at least two times a day. The following explains why each action is so important:
- Toothbrushing – When you brush, you agitate the debris and bacteria that cling to the teeth through the combination of abrasives in the toothpaste and the back-and-forth action of the toothbrush.
- Flossing – Toothbrushing can only clean around 60% of your teeth. To get into the tight spaces where bacteria prefer to hide, flexible dental floss is required. Additionally, it’s your primary defense against bacteria seeping beneath the gum line.
The Value of Visiting Your Dentist
By committing to a six-month visit to your dentist for a cleaning and dental checkup in Denton, you can boost the effects of your dental hygiene practices. For starters, stubborn plaque and tartar that you can’t remove on your own, can be eradicated.
Additionally, any cavities, abnormal growths or other developing issues can be spotted before they get worse. Thus, you can avoid the need for complex dental procedures, and save time and money in the long-run.
To get on the right path, contact your dentist in Denton to schedule your first visit today!
About the Author
Dr. Todd Balington earned his dental degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, and for over a decade, he has been providing top-notch dental care. He understands that many dental issues stem from neglect; thus, he encourages his patients to practice excellent dental hygiene and to take advantage of preventive dentistry at Denton Dental Center. Dr. Balington can be reached for more information through his website.