October may be behind us, but did you know it was National Dental Hygiene Month? The observance recognizes dental hygienists and promotes good oral care habits, just in time to prepare for the season of Halloween candy, Thanksgiving pies, and festive holiday treats!

Dental hygiene is a daily preventive care practice that is essential throughout the year. Taking care of your teeth and gums promotes better overall physical health. It can also contribute to improved emotional and mental wellbeing because healthy teeth and gums boost feelings of self-esteem and overall wellbeing. It can help prevent problems such as cavities, gum disease, and halitosis, as well as gingivitis and periodontitis. It is also linked to whole-body health.

Research shows poor oral hygiene can cause issues in the mouth, which may contribute to greater health conditions, including:

  • Cardiovascular disease: a group of diseases that affect your heart and blood vessels
  • Stroke: a medical emergency when something prevents blood flow to the brain
  • Endocarditis: a bacterial infection that inflames the lining of your heart valves and chambers
  • Pneumonia: a lung infection caused by bacteria
  • Pregnancy complications

Some health conditions can affect oral health as well:

  • Diabetes: The body is less able to fight infection, potentially causing a greater Risk of gum disease
  • HIV/AIDS: Mucosal lesions are common and painful
  • Cancer: Many cancers have been linked to gum disease, including mouth, gastrointestinal, lung, breast, prostate, and uterine cancers
  • Alzheimer's disease: As the disease progresses, oral health tends to get worse

For your daily care regimen, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the following:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes
  • Clean between your teeth daily
  • Eat a healthy diet, limiting sugary beverages and snacks

In addition to these daily habits, the ADA further recommends:

  • See your dentist regularly for prevention and treatment. This includes exams, x-rays, and cleanings regularly. Consult your dentist for personalized advice.
  • Most dental insurance plans cover a complete exam with x-rays once per year, and two annual cleanings at no cost when you visit an in-network dental provider. Check the frequency in your plan summary and make sure you take advantage of this benefit!
  • Quit tobacco products - The ADA strongly advocates for smoking and tobacco cessation.

This holiday season and beyond, don’t forget the importance of dental hygiene in your everyday routine. A healthy smile goes hand in hand with overall wellness and can help prevent more serious issues down the road. And the next time you visit your dentist, be sure to thank them, and your hygienist, for helping you stay healthy and confident in your smile!

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If you'd like to learn more, please contact me at:

Robert Guenther
Senior Client Manager
rguenther@venbrook.com
(818) 598-8935