Springtime smiles: April is oral health month

(NC) April is oral health month in Canada and a perfect time to set new goals to help your smile shine. The theme of the month once again is “Oral Health for Total Health,” which is an important reminder that taking good care of our mouth, teeth and gums benefits our overall physical and mental well-being.

If you’re not sure where to start, ask your dental hygienist for guidance during your next appointment. As essential primary health-care providers, dental hygienists will work with you to develop a daily oral care plan to promote good oral health and prevent disease. They can also offer individualized treatment recommendations for oral conditions, strategies to stop smoking, nutrition counselling and oral cancer screenings.

In the meantime, it’s easy to commit to these six simple steps:

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
2. Clean between your teeth daily with floss or other interdental devices.
3. Use an antibacterial mouthrinse once a day.
4. Make healthy food and beverage choices.
5. Eliminate tobacco use.
6. See an oral health professional every six months.

Maintaining good oral health would not be possible without the help of Canada’s dedicated oral health professionals. Remember their important tips this April and especially during National Dental Hygienists Week, which takes place from April 4 to 10.

Find more information on oral health at dentalhygienecanada.ca.