According to the Canadian Dental Association, three-quarters of Canadians visit the dentist at least once annually. As a result – and according to the same institution – 84% of Canadians believe themselves to have excellent dental hygiene. These figures are promising, as your dental health is an important aspect of your general health.
And with National Dentist’s Day fast approaching (March 6th), what better time to celebrate the healthy oral habits that have resulted in your unblemished smile. And if you’ve yet to take on these best practices – you’re in the right place.
At Stoney Trail Dental in Calgary, we want to honour National Dentist’s Day. And we’re doing it by sharing 5 oral health best practices that will enhance both your smile and dental hygiene.
Half the battle of maintaining your oral health is simply stopping the bad behaviours that prevent it. Namely; smoking, nail-biting, clenching or grinding of teeth, poor dietary choices, etc. This National Dentist’s Day, make a commitment to stop engaging in the acts that impede your oral health.
Breaking bad habits is never easy, but for the sake of your dental hygiene – and overall health – it will certainly be worth it in the long run when you make it happen.
The importance of flossing cannot be underestimated. Yet despite its importance, many people still fail to implement this essential practice into their daily routine. Whether it’s due to a lack of knowledge, a sense of apathy or just plain laziness is irrelevant.
The fact of the matter is everyone needs to floss – daily.
Flossing removes the tartar, plaque, and food remnants left behind in the crevices of your teeth. These are the nooks and crannies that your toothbrush is simply unable to reach. For this reason, you can’t replace flossing with brushing.
Here are some additional benefits you’ll experience when you make flossing a habit this National Dentist’s Day:
Fluoride is an element that originates from the earth’s soil, which means it's a natural mineral. In fact, it is often used in food, water, and yes, even toothpaste. Numerous toothpaste brands use fluoride due to its many advantages for safeguarding and enhancing the health of your teeth.
Toothpaste brands that contain fluoride can stave off cavities in adults and children alike. Moreover, it can also help reinforce frail areas in your mouth and prevent the onset of tooth decay.
This is due to its ability to slow enamel breakdown, while also accelerating the pace of the remineralization process.
Mouthwash can be quite advantageous for dental health. A good swig of mouthwash has the capacity to rid your mouth of bacteria, canker sores, and plaque all while refreshing your breath in the process!
However, something important to keep in mind is that mouthwash is a supportive tool, not a supplement. It can’t replace brushing or flossing. But rather, it works in conjunction with them to produce better results.
And it’s certainly a habit that is worth adding to your list of best practices for National Dentist’s Day.
Incorporating these oral health best practices is essential. But one of the best things you can do for your dental hygiene is book routine checkups with your dentist. Experts recommend visiting your dentist at least once every 6 months. The professional opinion of your orthodontist will open your eyes to the quality of your oral health.
As a result, you’ll be provided with the best course of action for your particular dental condition. Moreover, you’ll be checked for gum disease, cavities, mouth cancer, as well as other oral ailments.
This kind of thorough dental examination will also give you peace of mind. Few things are more assuring than the expert opinion of a professional telling your body is healthy and in working order.
While you certainly can make the proper oral health changes any time of year, National Dentist’s Day on March 6th is an invitation to start sooner rather than later. Don’t hold off on making the health changes in this important area in your life.
And if you’re ready to make those changes, our expert team of Orthodontists here at Stoney Trail Dental can help. Book an appointment with us today.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Gurshant Grewal - a Registered Dentist on February 28, 2022
