National Dental Hygiene Month 2012: Better than ever!

Once again this year ADHA is thrilled to announce that we are partnering with Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company, manufacturer of Orbit gum, to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month (NDHM) in October! This year’s collaboration will continue to improve on last year’s new NDHM format by providing even more focus on consumer information about oral disease prevention including a Spanish and English Radio Media Tour and 4 new Spanish translated fact sheets. Focusing on community service and the day-to-day efforts of dental hygienists nationwide is what NDHM is all about! The new theme, “Keep them healthy. Keep them clean.” continues to stress easy ways that our patients can incorporate a simple oral health regimen into an active and busy life in order to maintain optimal oral health. Through the NDHM program, ADHA continues to promote increasing the public’s awareness about the importance of preventive services in maintaining good oral hygiene and to encourage others to develop and continue with a daily oral health routine. There is more to come, so as we approach October, check back with ADHA to stay updated with news and events pertaining to NDHM. There are also PR materials available in the state and local resource center at www.adha.org which can be used to promote any state or local event that you may be planning in honor of NDHM.(1)

Brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day remains a critical component to maintaining a healthy smile. Studies have shown that brushing for two minutes is perhaps the single most important step an individual can take to reduce plaque build-up and the risk of plaque-associated diseases, such as cavities and gingivitis. Proper brushing is essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively.(2)

Proper flossing or interdental cleaning removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach. Because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease, daily flossing is highly recommended. Flossing is an essential part of oral hygiene.

Rinsing your mouth each day with an anti-microbial mouth rinse is another important step in preventing oral disease. Brushing and flossing disrupt plaque on the teeth and gums, but teeth make up only less than half of your mouth. Download a Journal of Dental Hygiene supplement on anti-microbial mouth rinses.(4) There is also online continuing education course for the supplement.(5)

Chewing sugar-free gum after eating is clinically proven to be an important part of good oral health. It stimulates the most important natural defense against tooth decay--saliva--which in turn, helps fight cavities, neutralize plaque acids, remineralize enamel to strengthen teeth and wash away food particles. Research from around the world has now shown conclusively that chewing sugarfree gum has many oral health benefits. When chewing is incorporated into the daily oral healthcare routine, especially after eating and drinking, it positively affects oral health. Read the scientific evidence supporting the use of sugarfree gum.(6)

For October, ADHA will be sending out a special shipment to each state president to assist with your community service activities. Orbit will very generously provide gum samples, fact sheets, extra posters and other collateral.