Did you know that October is ? At Dwight B. Lee Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we like to take this opportunity to further educate patients on the many benefits of practicing good oral hygiene. We also like to encourage people to schedule their routine teeth cleanings and other preventive dental care so they can maintain healthy smiles for years to come. Our dentist in Lebanon, IN, is accepting new patients and is ready to help you achieve your best smile yet!
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about October and why now is the perfect time to recommit yourself to a healthy, beautiful smile.
Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily
One of the simplest yet most important ways to celebrate is by committing to brushing at least twice daily. Use a fluoride toothpaste and spend two minutes brushing to remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles.
Brushing in the morning helps freshen your breath and protect teeth for the day ahead, while brushing before bed ensures harmful buildup doesn’t sit on your teeth overnight.
Floss Your Teeth Once Daily
Flossing often gets overlooked, but it plays a critical role in preventing gum disease and cavities. By cleaning between your teeth, floss removes debris that your toothbrush can’t reach. During National Dental Hygiene Month, make it a goal to floss at least once per day. This small addition to your routine can dramatically improve gum health and reduce your risk of inflammation or bleeding gums.
Swish with Fluoride Mouth Rinse
Antibacterial mouthwash is another tool that supports a healthy smile. Rinsing can reduce harmful bacteria, freshen breath, and reach areas missed by brushing and flossing. Patients can celebrate this month by adding mouthwash to their daily routine, choosing one that targets plaque and gingivitis for the best results.
Eat Healthy, Nutritious Foods
Nutrition plays an often-overlooked role in dental hygiene. A diet high in sugary or acidic foods can weaken enamel and feed cavity-causing bacteria. This October, consider celebrating by making smarter choices: eat more calcium-rich foods like cheese or yogurt, snack on crunchy fruits and vegetables to naturally clean your teeth, and drink plenty of water to wash away food particles and bacteria.
Commit to Routine Teeth Cleanings
Another excellent way to observe National Dental Hygiene Month is by booking a professional teeth cleaning. Even with great daily habits, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach places.
A dental cleaning not only refreshes your smile but also gives our dentist a chance to check for early signs of decay or gum disease. Preventive visits are one of the most effective ways to maintain lifelong oral health.
Spread Awareness About Dental Hygiene
Finally, this month is also about spreading awareness. Parents can use October to teach children about brushing and flossing, while adults can remind friends and family about the importance of routine dental visits. Sharing tips or scheduling family appointments is a simple yet impactful way to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month.
The Takeaway
October is the perfect time to recommit to habits that keep your smile strong and healthy. Whether you’re brushing and flossing consistently, adding mouthwash to your routine, making smarter food choices, or visiting Dr. Lee for routine dental care, each step makes a difference.
Book Your Next Appointment with Dr. Lee
Our dentist in Lebanon, IN, wants you to know that your smile is worth the investment in preventive dentistry. To schedule your next teeth cleaning with us, please call Dwight B. Lee Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (765) 482-2400. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.