Celebrate Oral Health Month and National Hygienists Week with a Visit to Your Dentist
Did you know that the month of April is National Oral Health Month in Canada? The second week of April is also when the country celebrates National Dental Hygienists Week. At Westwood & Starwood Dental, a family dentist in Guelph, we like to commemorate these two events by reminding Canadians about the importance of taking care of their oral health and the many ways that hygienists can help. What is the Role of a Dental Hygienist? The main role of a dental hygienist is to prevent oral and dental health diseases such as tooth decay and gum disease. Hygienists do this mainly by providing oral hygiene services, but they are also trained to perform diagnostic and screening procedures, working closely with dentists to catch signs of oral health issues early. They are largely responsible for patient education as well. A dental hygienist is the dental care professional you will spend most of your time with during a routine dental appointment. What to Expect During a Dental Hygiene Appointment When you visit a dental clinic in Guelph for a dental cleaning and checkup, a dental hygienist will first ask you about your dental and medical history and perform X-rays of your teeth and jaw, if needed. Next, they will clean any plaque and tartar that has accumulated on your teeth and apply fluoride to help strengthen your dental enamel. Once your hygienist is finished, your Guelph dentist will come in to perform an examination, review X-rays, and address any of your oral health concerns. Questions to Ask Your Dentist and Hygienist During your appointment, you shouldn't hesitate to ask questions. Here are some suggestions for questions that can help you feel better informed and able to take care of your oral health. • How can I improve my oral health? • How can I improve the appearance of my teeth? • Is there anything about my oral health that my family doctor should know? • Is my chart up to date with my medications/health conditions? • Why am I experiencing pain/soreness/sensitivity in my mouth? Top Oral Health Tips from Dentists and Hygienists Taking good care of your oral health will help prevent the development of oral health diseases. Here are our most important tips for healthy teeth and gums: • Brush your teeth at least two times a day • Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush • Floss every day • Brush or scrape your tongue • Avoid smoking and tobacco products • Limit alcohol intake • Limit sugary, sticky, and acidic foods • Visit your dentist on a regular basis Take Charge of Your Oral Health. Book an Appointment with a Dentist in Guelph Today Westwood & Starwood Dental has been providing comprehensive family dental services at our dental clinic in Guelph for over four decades. If it's been a while since your last teeth cleaning and examination, then our dental hygienists can provide you with hygiene services for a cleaner and healthier mouth. To schedule an appointment with a family dentist in Guelph at Westwood & Starwood Dental, just contact us today.