JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
October marks National Dental Hygiene month, and according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the mouth is the primary means of entry for many fungi, bacteria and different types of viruses.
Here are some tips to prevent these potential problems:
· Always brush two minutes, two times a day, every day. Research shows that brushing for two minutes is the single most important method for reducing plaque and preventing cavities, gingivitis and other plaque-related diseases.
· Ensure flossing is a daily habit. Daily flossing (or other methods of interdental cleaning) removes plaque and food particles that cannot be reached by a toothbrush, particularly under the gumline and between teeth. Failure to do so can allow for plaque buildup in these areas - which in turn can lead to tooth decay, tartar formation, and gum disease.
· Use a mouthwash to improve oral health. Rinsing your mouth with an anti-microbial mouth rinse each day is another important step you can take to prevent gum disease (gingivitis). Remember that the teeth themselves account for less than half of the total surface area in your mouth, so brushing and flossing alone cannot eliminate all the plaque and germs. Be sure to finish your oral care routine with an antiseptic mouthwash that carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
· Chew sugar-free gum after eating. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating has been clinically proven to be an important part of good oral health. The action of chewing sugar-free gum stimulates the most important natural defense against tooth decay -- saliva -- which in turn helps fight cavities, neutralizes plaque acids, re-mineralizes enamel to strengthen teeth and wash away food particles.
Following the recommended methods above, can prevent potential health complications and ensure a healthy mouth and a bright smile for years to come.