As the leaves change and Halloween sweets start to appear, October is a perfect time to refresh your oral hygiene habits. It's Orthodontic Health Month - a yearly reminder that healthy smiles don't just come from straight teeth, but from strong daily habits and preventive care.
Whether you have braces, aligners, retainers, or just want to protect your natural smile, now's the time to focus on the small steps that make a big difference.
Let's take a closer look at the core habits that support both dental and orthodontic health and why they matter more than ever.
- Brush Twice a Day (At Least): Brushing is the foundation of your dental care, and the way you brush makes a difference.
• Brush for 2 minutes, covering all tooth surfaces - front, back, and chewing surfaces
• Don't forget to clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth
• Wait about 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing to prevent enamel erosion. This may also help reduce gum inflammation better than manual brushing.
• Using an electric toothbrush is recommended - studies show they remove more plaque and may reduce gum inflammation more effectively than manual brushing.
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Floss Once a Day (At Least): Flossing removes food debris and plaque between teeth that brushing alone cannot reach. Skipping it can lead to bacterial and food buildup on teeth, resulting in bad breath, gum disease, and potential tooth loss.
• Use traditional floss, floss picks, or a water flosser
Be gentle - flossing shouldn't cause bleeding after the first few days of regular use
• Floss before brushing - this allows fluoride from toothpaste to reach between your teeth more effectively
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Rinse to Refresh and Protect: Mouthwash is a beneficial finishing step.
• Use a therapeutic mouthwash (not just cosmetic) with fluoride or antibacterial properties
• Swish for at least 30 seconds
• Avoid rinsing with water immediately afterward
• Occasionally rinsing with saltwater can soothe gums and reduce bacteria
- See Your Dentist Regularly: Routine check-ups are about more than cleanings; they help detect early signs of gum disease, decay, oral cancer, and other issues.
• Most people need a checkup every 6 months
• Those with gum issues, diabetes, or high-risk conditions may need to be seen every 3-4 months
• Cleaning removes tartar, which cannot be eliminated by home brushing
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum After Meals: Chewing sugar-free gum (especially with Xylitol) can help:
• Increase saliva flow and neutralize acids
• Reduce your risk of cavities and freshen your breath between meals
• Use gum approved by the CDA
- Drink Plenty of Water: Hydration is vital for oral health. Water:
• Washes away food particles and sugars
• Keeps saliva flowing, which protects enamel
• Helps combat dry mouth, a common cause of cavities and bad breath
- Eat for a Healthier Smile: Your diet has a bigger impact than you might think.
• Limit sticky, sugary snacks (especially around Halloween)
• Include crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots, which naturally clean teeth while you chew
• Get enough calcium and vitamin D to support strong teeth and bones
- Oral Hygiene for All Ages
• Kids: Supervise brushing until around age 7-8. Use age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste
• Teens: Watch for signs of gum disease or orthodontic issues as adult teeth settle
• During Pregnancy: Growing your babies requires a lot of calcium. Your bodies will strip it from anywhere if there's not enough absorbed with food. Be mindful of cavities developing and speak to us if you have any problems or questions!
• Seniors: Aging and medication side effects can cause dry mouth and gum recession. Regular care is essential!
Consistent daily habits, supported by regular professional visits, go a long way in protecting your oral and overall health. Whether you're improving your routine or catching up on care, we're here to support you every step of the way. If it's been a while since your last visit, now's the perfect time to schedule an appointment.
