According to dentist Columbia Dr. Gregory Wych, October 2015 marks the sixth straight year that the American Dental Hygienists’ Association and the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company are teaming up to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month. They do this by working collaboratively
to increase public awareness about the importance of maintaining good oral health.
The focus of this year’s program focuses on the four components of good oral health: Brushing, flossing, rinsing and chewing. Dental hygienists are encouraged to remind their patients to “Do the daily 4” and, during each dental office visit, talk to their dentist Columbia about how integrating good oral health-care habits into their daily routine will benefit not just their oral health, but also contribute to their better overall health.
Brush: Research shows that brushing your two times a day for two minutes is one of the best things you can do for your teeth! Proper brushing is essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively. Using a toothbrush with soft, nylon, round-ended bristles will not scratch and irritate teeth or damage gums. And remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
Floss: Your dentist Columbia advises that daily flossing is important to remove food and plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach, especially close to the gum line. It also protects you from gingivitis and tooth decay, so be sure to floss each and every day! If you find using floss to be awkward or difficult, ask your dental hygienist about dental floss holders or interdental cleaning devices that can be purchased at your local drug store.
Rinse: Another important step to your oral health is rinsing after brushing with an anti-microbial mouth rinse. Your dentist Columbia warns that even brushing and flossing can still leave bacteria behind. Mouth rinses are used to:
- Freshen breath;
- Prevent/control tooth decay, plaque and gingivitis;
- Reduce the speed at which tartar forms on the teeth;
- Produce a combination of these effects.
Chew: Chewing sugar-free gum has been proven to be good for your oral health in numerous ways! The act of chewing stimulates saliva, which serves as a natural defense against tooth decay by fighting cavities and washing away food particles.