For most people, October is all about Halloween—with so many spooky festivities to partake in and sweet treats to enjoy, it’s hard to not think about anything else during this time of the year. However, October is also Dental Hygiene Month, which means it’s a great time to revisit your oral hygiene regimen and ensure that you’re doing things properly; after all, you wouldn’t want Halloween to be the reason that you end up with a cavity, or some other type of dental issue! Continue reading below for some wise habits your dentist thinks you should practice in order to keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape.
Daily Oral Hygiene at Home Is a Must
Daily hygiene at home is the secret to maintaining a healthy smile, no matter what month it is—but October is not the time to slack off! Be sure that you’re brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and supplementing with an antibacterial mouthwash. If you’re consistent with these habits, you’re adding an incredible layer of protection to your smile.
Stick to a Healthy Diet
You shouldn’t shrug off the impact that a healthy diet can have on your oral health. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to make smart dietary choices during October, since there seems to be an excess of sugary sweets and treats almost everywhere you look. But you should limit your consumption of foods and drinks that are sugary and acidic, and opt for healthier choices instead like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. If you can’t resist having some candy, just remember that moderation is key—and if you can, eat it with your meal so that you’re likely to have less.
Avoid Bad Habits
Eating too much candy during Halloween isn’t the only bad habit you should avoid this month. You’ve probably heard that smoking is notoriously awful for your overall health—but it is especially detrimental to your oral health, meaning that now is a great time to kick the habit if you smoke or use tobacco. You should also refrain from other habits that might harm your teeth: biting your fingernails, using your teeth as tools, and snacking right before bedtime can all present problems for your smile.
Don’t Skip Dental Checkups
You aren’t entirely alone in the lifelong, ongoing battle against tooth decay and bacteria; much like how Batman has Robin to help him protect Gotham City, you have your dentist to help you protect your smile! That said, if you’re due for your next checkup this month, you should be sure to attend it. These visits allow your dentist to inspect your smile and ensure there aren’t any hidden threats. They’ll also clean and polish your teeth at a level that you cannot carry out yourself.
Halloween is an exciting time of year, but you shouldn’t get so caught up in your fun and games that you begin neglecting your oral health. By keeping these things in mind, your smile will be the least scary part of your costume this year!
About the Practice
The talented Dental Designs of New England team has proudly served patients and families in the Merrimack, NH community for several years. They’re excited to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options that are certain to keep your smile looking and feeling its absolute best! If you have any questions about the blog or want to set up an appointment for you or a loved one, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (603) 429-2199.
