The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is celebrating National Dental Hygiene month in October  with the theme “Healthy Habits are Easier than You Think”.  The ADHA is teaming up with the Wrigley chewing gum company (maker of Orbit sugar-free gum) to promote the idea that good oral hygiene habits are easy to start and maintain, even if you have a very busy life.

ADHA President Caryn Solie said “It is imperative to our overall health to have a healthy mouth.”  She added “Brushing, flossing, rinsing with an antimicrobial mouth rinse and chewing sugarfree gum are easy ways to avoid issues that could affect the status of your oral health.”

Reducing the risk of oral disease such as periodontal disease is the goal of the campaign.  Brushing teeth for two minutes (time it) at least twice each day can reduce plaque build-up and the risk of cavities.  Flossing is needed to clean between your teeth and to remove particles of food from under the gum line.  Rinsing with an anti-microbial mouth rinse clears out even more harmful bacteria.

If you can’t brush your teeth immediately after eating then chewing sugar free gum can help clean your mouth.  Gum chewing stimulates saliva production which helps wash away food particles and neutralizes the pH in your mouth.  Your saliva also helps strengthen your tooth enamel helping to fight cavities.  Warning – if you suffer from symptoms of TMJ dysfunction (TMJ) then you should skip the gum chewing, it will only aggravate your condition.

Please contact StoneRidge Dental Care today at 614-476-6696 to schedule your hygiene appointment in celebration of National Dental Hygiene Month!