“All the statistics in the world can’t measure the warmth of a smile.” Chris Hart

If you also believe in the power of a beautiful smile, you are one of 90% of Americans, who consider a healthy smile an important social asset. Meanwhile, is it quite shocking to discover that nearly 70% of all Americans, aged 35 to 44 have at least one missing tooth, and one in four over the age of 74 have lost all their natural teeth!

Although genetics play a large role in oral health, regular brushing and preventative dental care are crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

To honor the work of dental hygienists in raising awareness on the importance of good oral health, in October we are celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month. The goal of it is not only to praise the efforts of dental hygienists, but also to increase public awareness about the importance of maintaining good oral health and emphasize on the four components of proper oral health maintenance: brushing teeth twice daily, flossing every day, rinsing with an antimicrobial mouth rinse, and chewing sugar-free gum.

1. Brush your teeth twice per day

Burien dentists recommend that you should brush your teeth at least twice a day to improve dental health and prevent tooth decay. Make sure to choose a soft toothbrush and avoid vigorous brushing. It is best to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes with a toothpaste, recommended by your dentist. It is also important to replace your toothbrush regularly – around every three months.

According to Colgate.com, the proper brushing technique is the following:

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
• Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes.
• Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

1. Floss every day

Flossing is a vital component of your oral hygiene that ensures healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day to remove plaque that is not removed by brushing. Old plaque can eventually harden into calculus or tartar and harm your beauty smile. Therefore, flossing should be an important part of your daily routine.

1. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouth rinse

Rinsing your mouth with the right mouthwash can help eliminate biofilm and bacteria that brushing and flossing cannot. Rinsing often, along with brushing and flossing, may help reduce the chance of dental decay and infection. Consult your Burien dentist to choose the best mouthwash for your needs.

1. Chew sugar-free gum

Clinic research reveals that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay. The chewing of sugarless gum increases the flow of saliva, which washes away food and other particles, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth.

Dental care at home is crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. However, don’t forget your regular check-up appointments with your Burien dentist to assure yourself a perfectly healthy smile.