Did you know that we are right in the middle of National Dental Hygiene Month? Well we are! Keeping your mouth healthy is VERY important, since it is crucial to overall health. The purpose of NDHM is to bring awareness in a formal way to our oral health. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is teaming up with the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company for the 4th time to publicize the simple yet important things we can do to maintain a healthy mouth. This year’s campaign motto is “Brush. Floss. Rinse. Chew.” Dr. Pham, your Bonita an Chula Vista dentist, gives you a short overview of things to remember.
Brush
Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Research shows that this is the best way to avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and other plaque-related diseases.
Floss
Floss every day. Flossing every day removes particles of food below the gum line and between teeth that brushing cannot. Removing food particles means plaque cannot build up and cause tooth and gum decay. If you have trouble getting into the habit of flossing, try using a text messaging reminder service from the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health.
Rinse
Rinse your mouth every day. Rinsing your mouth helps remove bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Using an ADA-approved (with their Seal of Acceptance) mouth rinse is a good way to remove bacteria, but even water alone is helpful if you don’t have a rinse.
Chew
Chew some sugar-free gum. Chewing sugar-free gum promotes saliva production. Saliva production is the body’s natural defense against tooth decay. Saliva helps fight cavities by neutralizing plaque acids, remineralizing enamel, and washing away food particles.
If you haven’t had your teeth cleaned in the past 6 months, this month is a good month to get back on track. Call us today to make your appointment: (619) 421 2155.
And remember, all new patients currently receive FREE EXAMS AND X-RAYS!