When you “treat yourself” to something, you probably don’t think about giving your teeth a five-star, deluxe cleaning session! But October is National Dental Hygiene Month, and what better way is there to celebrate than giving your pearly whites (and yourself) the self-care they deserve?
If you want to take your brushing and flossing routines to the next level, keep reading. These tips will help your dental hygiene obligations feel more like a spa-day treat.
The Best Way to Brush
For healthy and shiny teeth, the best way to brush is to hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle, and move in small, circular motions. The angle helps you reach past your lips to scrub bacteria near your gumline, while the circular motions help you slow down and clean thoroughly. Don’t forget to get the chewing and back sides of your pearly whites as well, and definitely don’t forget to brush your tongue!
Pro Flossing Techniques
Clearing the space between your teeth is just as important for a bright smile and a healthy oral biome. If you use traditional floss thread, wiggle it into the space, then make a “c” shape, so that the floss forms a crescent around the left or right tooth. When you wiggle the thread up and out, you’ll have taken care of any debris clinging to the sides of your teeth. Repeat the process for the opposite side, and that’s how you should floss between each pearly white for maximum cleaning.
Oral Hygiene as Self-Care
It’s easy to think of something like brushing and flossing your teeth as a chore. For National Dental Hygiene Month, try to break this stigma and think of your oral hygiene as a form of self-care. Light a sweet-smelling candle, open your windows to let in warm light and a soft breeze, play some music, and refresh yourself with a minty, fluoride toothpaste.
Of course, you can incorporate whatever elements will help you start your day or wind down for the night – the point is that taking care of your teeth is a way to take care of yourself. Treat your cleaning sessions like a form of luxury, and they’ll start to feel less and less like a menial obligation!
Healthy Teeth, Happy You
National Dental Hygiene Month was primarily created to promote good oral wellness. A clean mouth is often a healthy mouth, and many conditions, like gum disease and tooth decay, are the result of poor brushing and flossing habits. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it! Play with different ways to pamper you and your teeth and celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month your way.
About the Practice
Our dental team at Distinctive Dentistry by Mullens & Nguyen are committed to providing patients with exceptional care. Each dentist has their own specialty, but all three are highly experienced and value the personal relationships they form with their patients. If you want to treat your teeth – and yourself – to a deluxe checkup and cleaning for National Dental Hygiene Month, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at our office! To schedule an appointment or get in touch, call 904-399-3163.