April is Oral Health Month, which makes it a great time to take stock of your oral care routine. Understanding how proper oral health can have an impact on your overall well-being is essential to taking a preventative approach to your oral health. 

During Oral Health Month consider the following preventive steps you can take to make sure your mouth and body are healthy throughout the entire year.

Eat Healthy

The first step to better overall oral health is making healthy food choices. Limit foods that are high in sugar. Over time, bacteria can destroy the enamel on your teeth and cause cavities to form.

You also want to watch your consumption of acidic foods and beverages, such as orange juice, processed meats, and carbonated drinks. These foods and beverages also wear on the enamel that protects your teeth.

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Maintaining proper oral hygiene means following proper oral hygiene habits. These habits include keeping your mouth clean by brushing and flossing every day. When brushing it’s best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for maximum effectiveness. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes covering the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth – moving your brush in small circular motions.

Get Regular Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in your mouth: the tongue, lips, cheeks, gums, salivary glands, and tonsils. Oral cancer has few visible signs in its early stages making it extremely important to have an oral cancer screening during your regular dental visits.

During your dental visit, your dentist will look for abnormalities that could be signs of oral cancer such as cuts, sores, bleeding gums, and swollen lymph nodes. By receiving regular screenings your dentist is able to catch and address any potential issues before they become bigger problems.

Schedule Regular Dental Appointments

You should aim to see your dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and examination.

During the cleaning, your dentist will use special tools to remove tartar from your teeth; this is something you cannot do at home. Your teeth will then be polished to help remove surface stains and flossed to make sure all areas are clean. During the exam, your dentist will check for cavities, inspect your gums, and examine your tongue, throat, neck, face, and head for signs of swelling or redness. Attending regular checkups is extremely important to maintaining your oral health, and to address any issues efficiently.

This April take advantage of Oral Health Month by following the oral care routines outlined above, contact our office today to book your next appointment.