Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month: Why Your Next Dental Cleaning is More Important Than Ever
Healing Hands Hygienist, Michelle, taking care of a patient
October is Dental Hygiene Month! We often think about brushing, flossing, and maybe using mouthwash as part of a healthy oral care routine, but professional dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining optimal dental health.
Why Dental Cleanings Matter
You’ve heard it before—your teeth need professional cleanings at least twice a year. But do you know why? Here are some key reasons:
1. Prevent Gum Disease
Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, which, if left untreated, can progress to more severe issues like periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss. Even with the best at-home care, it’s nearly impossible to remove all the plaque on your own. Dental cleanings provide a deep cleaning that targets the tough-to-reach areas in your mouth.
2. Prevent Cavities
Plaque is the number one culprit behind tooth decay. When it builds up on your teeth, it produces acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. During your cleaning, your hygienist will remove this harmful buildup before it can cause damage.
3. Brighten Your Smile
Life is full of things that can dull your smile—coffee, wine, tea, and even some foods leave behind stains. Regular dental cleanings polish your teeth, giving them a natural brightness that toothpaste alone often can't achieve.
4. Catch Problems Early
During your cleaning, your hygienist can help detect early signs of oral health issues, such as gum inflammation, oral cancer, or other abnormalities. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
5. Boost Overall Health
Oral health is connected to overall health. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke have been linked to gum disease. By keeping a healthy mouth, you’re also protecting the health of your entire body.
Celebrating Dental Hygienists: The Unsung Heroes of Oral Care
Dental hygienists are the backbone of any dental practice. They are the ones who provide preventive care, educate patients on proper oral hygiene, and help prevent long-term issues that could lead to painful or costly treatments.
Hygienists have specialized training that enables them to:
Perform thorough cleanings that remove tartar, plaque, and stains.
Conduct oral exams to spot potential issues before they become problems.
Teach personalized oral care routines based on each patient’s specific needs.
Support dental health awareness through outreach and education.
Their job isn’t just about cleaning teeth—it’s about improving lives by preventing oral diseases, encouraging healthier habits, and promoting overall wellness. In honor of Dental Hygiene Month, we salute these professionals for their dedication and expertise!
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning TODAY!
With everything we juggle in our busy lives, it’s easy to forget about scheduling routine appointments. Delaying your dental cleaning can lead to more serious issues down the road. Set a reminder to call your dental office and book that appointment today. Not only will you leave with a cleaner, healthier smile, but you'll also be supporting the health of your whole body!
Ready to schedule your dental cleaning? Apply for care today and thank your hygienist for keeping your smile shining!
Thank you to OUR amazing dental hygienists, Michelle and Rachel, and the rotating dental hygiene students that assist in our clinic!
Michelle, a Virginia Health Care Foundation-funded dental hygienist helps expand access for Virginia Medicaid patients in need of dental care.
“Healing Hands Health Center offers a great opportunity for me to utilize my skills and experience to contribute effectively to patients I see in the dental hygiene department. I appreciate the challenge of continuously learning and adapting to new situations in the dental field.”
Thanks to VHCF’s investment, Healing Hands Health had a 202% increase in dental hygiene visits in 2023!