Did you know that April is National Oral Health Care month? It’s also the perfect reminder that it’s important to pay special attention to our teeth and overall oral hygiene, which can have a tremendous impact on our overall health. Did you know that poor oral health can lead to gum disease, which left untreated, can lead to the loss of teeth…and sometimes heart disease?
Now that my kids are teenagers I discuss the impact of poor oral health care on them more than I ever used to do. Both my girls are old enough to understand that there are no short cuts to good oral health care. Skipping brushing, missing flossing, can lead to cavities and costly dentist’s appointments.
Life is all about the little moments. What’s oral health care got to do with that? Well, here’s my take. Don’t shy away from the smiles and the selfies when you are having a good time. Capture all the smiles. Then hold them close. They will carry you through some of the harder days. So take care of those pearly whites and flash them every chance you have.
To get you started on the path towards a brighter, whiter smile, I suggest the following tips:
Oral Health Care for the kids:
Children often look at mom and dad as role models, so make sure you lead by example and talk to them about the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums! Let them see you brushing your teeth.
· Suggest using a timer or a song to ensure that the kiddies are brushing for as long as they’re supposed to. You can even make it a family activity by doing it all together.
· Give your kiddos a bonus for brushing. A sticker chart that keeps track of their brushing habits is a great way to give them an incentive to brush.
· Introduce a toothpaste and brush that features one of your kids favourite characters – such as the Orajel™ Spiderman™ and My Little Pony™ Anticavity Fluoride Toothpaste and the Kids Spinbrush™ My Little Pony™ Battery Toothbrush. It keeps things exciting while practicing healthy habits!
Oral Health Care For adults:
Make sure you’re brushing and flossing at least twice a day to achieve optimal oral health.
· The Canadian Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three months or sooner if it becomes worn, for an optimal clean.
· Use a battery-powered toothbrush with sonic pulsating action. For example, the new Arm & Hammer™ Sonic Pulse Battery Toothbrush is clinically proven to remove 2X more plaque versus a manual toothbrush. This toothbrush has a slim, ergonomic handle, and comes with a replaceable head and battery! This one is my favourite! It keeps my teeth shiny and works better than a manual toothbrush.
· If you can’t resist desserts and candy, pay attention! Foods that contains a lot of sugar can stain your teeth and soften tooth enamel. I recommend Arm & Hammer™ Truly Radiant™ Clean & Fresh™ Toothpaste for enamel safe whitening and lasting freshness plus it prevents tartar build up. This is an area where I need to improve.
Arm & Hammer has a great resource page with dental health details. Take the time to check it out.
This month make it your goal to wear a smile and take care of your teeth. How are you practicing good oral health habits?
I am a Church and Dwight ambassador and as such I receive compensation. My opinion is all my own and is also truthful.