Dental Hygiene: Why preventive dental healthcare is important.

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It’s National Dental Hygiene Month! It’s a month-long celebration of preventive dental healthcare and the amazing people who GET THE JOB DONE. We’re Everyday Extraordinary. I am Everyday Extraordinary! As an oral health prevention specialist, every day I promote oral health and work to prevent oral diseases. I protect your smile from oral diseases.

What is preventive dentistry?

It includes simple oral hygiene practices at home, professional dental hygiene treatment by your dental hygienist, and periodic examinations by your dentist. Preventive dental healthcare starts with you! By brushing and flossing at least two times a day, you protect your mouth from a sticky group of bacteria called plaque. Plaque is the culprit that causes tooth cavities and gum disease. Without your basic at-home routine, you greatly increase your chances of developing expensive dental problems. 

Dental hygiene treatment such as prophylaxis is preventive dental care that is usually completed by a dental hygienist. Using dental instruments, plaque biofilm/tartar will be removed from above and below your gum line. Routine professional hygiene care is essential in maintaining optimal oral health.

Along with regular at-home care and dental prophylaxis, completing regular checkups is needed to prevent dental problems. Regular dental checkups give your dentist the opportunity to detect problems early and provide prompt treatment if necessary.   

Why is preventive dental healthcare important?

Preventive dentistry helps you keep a healthy mouth. Preventive services such as dental hygiene care help you maintain the health of your teeth and decrease your need for additional dental treatment. Tooth cavities and gum disease are two common oral diseases that cause tooth loss. Preventing these conditions increases your chance of having your teeth for a lifetime.

Addressing your preventive dental healthcare needs includes approaching your dental health with longevity in mind.  This requires a daily maintenance oral care routine committed to focusing on a lifetime of healthy smiles.  Such routine includes the following:

• Brushing your teeth at least two times a day for two minutes.
• Cleaning between your teeth with floss, proxy brushes, water flosser, or floss picks daily.
• Having professional dental hygiene care and dental evaluations completed at least two times a year.
• Consuming a diet that is low in added sugar and packed with healthy nutrients!

Someone who completes routine preventive dental visits and keeps the longevity mindset not only has a more affordable smile, but they have a smile that will last longer. Prevention is key. Always take the proactive approach of caring for your smile! I appreciate patients who actively participate in maintaining their oral health. It lets me know that my hard work is appreciated. How will you show your dental hygienist appreciation this month?