How Are You Celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month?
October isn’t just about pumpkin spice and Halloween costumes — it’s also National Dental Hygiene Month, a time dedicated to promoting the importance of maintaining excellent oral health. At Jackson Family Dentistry in Downers Grove, we believe this is the perfect opportunity to reflect on your dental care routine and make positive changes that will benefit your smile for years to come. Whether you’ve been putting off that overdue cleaning or you’re searching for a trusted “dentist near me” to help your family stay healthy, now is the time to take action.
What Is National Dental Hygiene Month?
National Dental Hygiene Month was established to raise awareness about the critical role oral health plays in overall wellness. This observance encourages individuals and families to prioritize preventive care, educate themselves about proper hygiene techniques, and schedule regular visits with their dentist. Poor oral hygiene doesn’t just affect your teeth and gums — it can also contribute to serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
At Jackson Family Dentistry, we use this month as a reminder to help our patients build habits that support lifelong dental health. From brushing and flossing to professional cleanings and screenings, every step you take toward better hygiene makes a difference.
Schedule Your Fall Dental Check-Up
One of the best ways to celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month is by scheduling a comprehensive dental exam. If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, now is the ideal time to book an appointment. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to identify early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns before they become serious problems.
During your visit, we’ll also perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can’t eliminate. These cleanings not only keep your teeth and gums healthy but also help prevent bad breath and tooth discoloration. If you’ve been searching online for a “dentist near me,” Jackson Family Dentistry offers convenient scheduling and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.
Don’t Skip Your Oral Cancer Screening
Another vital component of preventive dental care is the oral cancer screening. Oral cancer is a serious and often overlooked disease that affects thousands of Americans each year. Early detection is key to successful treatment, which is why we include an oral cancer screening Downers Grove IL as part of every routine exam at Jackson Family Dentistry.
During an oral cancer screening, Dr. Eric Jackson will carefully examine your mouth, tongue, throat, and neck for any signs of abnormalities, lesions, or lumps. The screening is quick, painless, and could save your life. If you’re due for your annual exam, don’t overlook the importance of this service. Asking your dentist about an oral cancer screening Downers Grove IL should be a priority, especially if you use tobacco, consume alcohol regularly, or have a family history of cancer.
Refresh Your At-Home Routine
National Dental Hygiene Month is also a great time to evaluate and improve your daily oral care habits. Are you brushing twice a day for at least two minutes? Are you flossing daily? Are you using the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your needs? These simple questions can reveal areas where small changes can lead to big improvements.
Consider upgrading to an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at removing plaque than manual brushing. Make sure you’re replacing your toothbrush or brush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. And don’t forget to floss — it’s one of the most overlooked steps in oral hygiene, yet it’s essential for removing food particles and bacteria from between your teeth.
Your dentist can also recommend products tailored to your specific needs, whether that’s fluoride toothpaste for cavity prevention, a therapeutic mouthwash for gum health, or tools to help with sensitive teeth.
Teach Kids the Importance of Oral Health
If you have children, October is a wonderful time to teach them about the importance of taking care of their teeth. Make brushing and flossing fun by letting them pick out a colorful toothbrush or playing their favorite song while they brush. You can also use this month to schedule their next visit with a family-friendly “dentist near me” like Jackson Family Dentistry, where we create a comfortable, positive experience for young patients.
Instilling good habits early sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Regular visits to the dentist, combined with consistent at-home care, can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other issues as they grow.
Make Your Appointment Today
National Dental Hygiene Month is the perfect reminder to prioritize your oral health. Whether you need a routine cleaning, a professional exam, or an oral cancer screening, Jackson Family Dentistry is here to provide compassionate, expert care. Don’t wait until a problem arises — schedule your visit today and celebrate this important month by investing in your smile.
If you’ve been searching for a trusted “dentist near me,” look no further. Contact Jackson Family Dentistry in Downers Grove and let us help you and your family enjoy healthier, brighter smiles all year long.
