4 Tips for a Healthier Smile During National Dental Hygiene Month

Happy National Dental Hygiene Month! Considering the most candy-filled holiday is just around the corner and the season of enjoying delectable treats is quickly approaching, there is no time like the present to prioritize your oral hygiene routine. If you are unsure where to start, here are four tips from a dentist in Littleton!

#1. Never Go to Bed Without Brushing Your Teeth

As the temperature continues to drop, it can be more and more tempting to curl up underneath your covers with your favorite book or to catch up on the latest Netflix series. However, if you accidentally doze off before completing your dental hygiene routine, then the food particles, plaque, and bacteria in your mouth can wreak havoc on your oral health for the 7+ hours you sleep. To protect your teeth and gums from decay and infection, make sure to always brush your teeth before bed!

#2. Treat Flossing as Important as Brushing

Did you know that 37% of U.S. adults don’t floss daily and another 30% don’t floss at all? So, it’s not surprising that cavities between two teeth are one of the most prevalent dental concerns among Americans today. To prevent this from happening to you, never wrap up your oral care regimen without reaching for your floss pick or a water flosser. That way, you can dislodge stubborn debris and keep your teeth in tip-top shape!

#3. Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks

Limiting sugary items can be difficult, especially when there is candy, festive beverages, and holiday treats around every turn. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that while your taste buds may enjoy the sugary goodness, your teeth certainly do not. Therefore, make sure to be conscious about the amount of soda, candy, and PSLs you are consuming, and always brush and floss your teeth shortly after!

#4. Visit Your Dentist Biannually

Your dentist is your teeth and gums’ greatest ally. By completing a thorough exam every six months, they can catch oral concerns in the initial stages, help prevent dental emergencies, and detect non-dental issues (like oral cancer and osteoporosis). Plus, they will conduct a professional cleaning that will effectively wash the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth and remove stubborn plaque and tartar! So, make sure to always visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning.

This National Dental Hygiene Month, prioritize your dental care regimen to keep your teeth and gums in pristine condition. That way, you can head into the New Year with a healthy, strong, beautiful smile!

About the Author

Since earning her doctorate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, Dr. Susan Kutis has spent the last nearly 15 years helping patients achieve pristine oral health. In fact, she is proud to be a recipient of multiple awards, including “Top Dentist” by Denver’s 5280 Magazine and the 2015 International Association of Dentists Award. If you are overdue for your routine dental appointment or your teeth need some end-of-the-year TLC, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 303-973-1112.