While National Dental Care Month might seem like just another awareness campaign, it’s the perfect opportunity to reset and strengthen the habits that keep your smile healthy throughout the year.
Top 5 Dental Habits to Strengthen
Here are the five most critical dental habits to reinforce—not just this month, but for life.
- Master the Two-Minute Rule — You brush twice a day, but are you giving your teeth the time they actually need? Most people brush for less than a minute, but effective plaque removal requires a full two minutes of gentle, thorough brushing. Play your favourite song, set a timer, or use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer feature. Focus on all tooth surfaces, not just the fronts everyone sees.
- Floss Like Your Smile Depends on It — Brushing alone cleans only about 60 percent of tooth surfaces. The only way to clean the remaining 40 percent is through daily flossing. If traditional floss feels awkward, try floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes.
- Choose Beverages Wisely — Your morning coffee, afternoon soda, and evening wine all have something in common—they're bathing your teeth in acids and sugars throughout the day. Use a straw when possible, rinse with water after consuming acidic or sugary drinks, and try to limit sipping throughout the day.
- Schedule (and Keep) Regular Checkups — Regular professional cleanings and exams are crucial for catching problems when they're small, treatable, and less expensive. Your dentist can help determine the ideal schedule for your specific needs.
- Pay Attention to Warning Signs — Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, or changes in how your bite feels are all signals that need attention. Addressing these types of issues promptly almost always leads to simpler, more comfortable, and less expensive treatment than waiting.
Your Partners in Excellent Oral Health
Ready to reinforce these healthy habits and give your smile the attention it deserves? Contact Golden Coast Dental Care in Long Beach, CA, today to schedule your appointment and celebrate National Dental Care Month by committing to better oral health.