Dental Hygiene
Patient Resources Oct 3, 2022 3 min read

October puts spotlight on dental hygiene

Chuck Reinertsen

Chuck Reinertsen

Dr. Charles Reinertsen is a pioneer in bridging the gap between dentistry and medicine. As the founder of The Dental Medical Convergence, he brings over…

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Discover why Dental Hygiene Awareness Month is so important to your health.

Fall is upon us. The weather is cooling down. It’s time to put the spotlight on Dental Hygiene Awareness Month, which the nation observes every October. The spotlight belongs on oral health every day, though, not only this month, because the health of your mouth reaches far beyond your smile. A growing body of research shows how closely the two are tied, including the link between oral health and heart disease.

Did you know poor oral health is linked to cardiovascular disease, pregnancy complications, and Alzheimer’s disease, among other health conditions? That’s why it’s so important to implement a proper oral care routine on a daily basis. We encourage you to spend between seven and 10 minutes each day cleaning your teeth and gums.

Regular Dental Visits: Key to Preventing Oral Health Issues

Visiting a dentist on a regular basis is, therefore, another effective way to prevent oral health issues. A dentist will monitor your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental problems. A dentist will help you come up with the right oral care plan for your teeth based on what’s going on in your mouth. Prevention is the best way to save time and money on dental and health care costs.

The Vital Role of Dental Hygienists in Oral Health

We also want to recognize dental hygienists and the important role they play in oral care. When you visit the dentist, hygienists clean your teeth and gums thoroughly. They also help remove plaque buildup, which can cause cavities. Furthermore, their care helps prevent serious dental problems later. They educate patients on good oral hygiene habits to keep teeth healthy. Additionally, hygienists watch for signs of tooth and gum issues. If they spot trouble, they alert the dentist. Therefore, routine dental visits are crucial for maintaining your oral health.

The simple habit of caring for your teeth and gums will have a lifetime of benefits – from reducing your risk of developing cavities and gum disease to preventing poor oral health, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and other serious health conditions. Take a moment this month to make sure you have a dental cleaning on the calendar and follow us to learn oral care tips.

Dental Hygiene Awareness Month is a good reminder that a few minutes of daily care add up to something bigger. Seven to ten minutes of cleaning your teeth and gums, regular checkups, and the sharp eyes of a dental hygienist all work together to protect far more than your smile. These habits carry well past October, quietly supporting your heart health and overall wellness all year long. Want to keep the momentum going once the month ends? Start a conversation with our team.

Want to Know More About the Mouth-Body Connection?

Whether you’re a patient or provider, we’re here to help. Ask a question, invite us to speak, or share your story.

Every effort supports dental health education through The Dental Medical Convergence, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.