Were you aware that October is celebrated as Dental Hygiene Month? The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) heavily promotes dental hygiene during this month to encourage people to take care of their teeth and gums.

Let’s face it, the majority of people are so engrossed in their daily activities that there are days they don’t get time to properly go through oral care routine. Instead of brushing for the recommended two minutes, they brush for one or skip flossing because of the lack of time. The month of October is the time where awareness about such instances is raised.

Unfortunately, you can’t skimp out on your oral hygiene routine. If you do, you will end up with plaque which can lead to tons of other oral problems from cavities to gum disease. To ensure good oral hygiene, you need to do the following:

• Brush regularly: It’s common knowledge that you need to brush twice a day. But when you brush, you need to do it gently and thoroughly. Ideally, you should brush for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. While brushing, use circular motions and make sure to cover your teeth, gum, and tongue.
• Floss: You should floss at least once a day to get rid of any food debris left between your teeth. Be gentle as you floss and try to clean out your gumline also.
• Use mouthwash: Mouthwash not only prevents bad breath but can help with plaque and gingivitis. Look for a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine which you can use after you brush.

It is imperative for individuals to follow a strict oral hygiene routine for optimal oral care. Besides your routine, you can take other steps to better care for your mouth. Things like:

• Visiting your dentist regularly: Your dentist will ensure your mouth is in good shape. A checkup consists of professional cleaning, to get rid of plaque and/or tartar, as well as a thorough examination of your mouth. Through the examination, your dentist can identify if you are in threat of any oral problem, suggesting preventative measures or treatment.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Limit your intake of foods that contain sugar and starch. Such foods provide bacteria with the nourishment it needs to flourish leading to an oral problem.

If you do develop oral problems there are numerous home remedies for toothache infection and other oral conditions that you can try that will provide some relief.