October isn’t just about pumpkin spice and falling leaves—it’s also Dental Hygiene Month, a perfect time to focus on the habits that keep your smile healthy and bright. At Higher Ground Dentistry in Upland, we’re passionate about helping our community understand that great oral health doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through consistent care, smart choices, and yes, regular visits to your dentist.

So how exactly should you celebrate Dental Hygiene Month? Let’s dive into some practical ways to elevate your oral care routine this October and beyond.

What Is Dental Hygiene Month All About?

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association celebrates October as National Dental Hygiene Month—a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of good oral health practices. Think of it as a reset button for your oral care routine. Maybe you’ve been slacking on flossing (we’ve all been there), or perhaps it’s been a while since your last professional cleaning. Dental Hygiene Month gives you the perfect excuse to get back on track.

Understanding Dental Hygiene Month and Why It Matters

Here’s the thing about dental hygiene—it’s not complicated, but it does require consistency. The foundation of a healthy mouth starts with what you do at home, twice a day, every day.

Brushing matters more than you think. Are you actually brushing for the full two minutes? Most people fall short, spending maybe 30-45 seconds tops. Set a timer on your phone or use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer. Use gentle circular motions at a 45-degree angle to your gums, and don’t forget to brush your tongue.

Flossing isn’t optional. Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. That other 40%? That’s where floss comes in. If traditional string floss feels awkward, try floss picks or water flossers. Find what works for you and actually use it—once a day is all it takes.

Schedule That Cleaning You’ve Been Putting Off

When was your last professional teeth cleaning? If you have to pause and think about it, you’re probably overdue. Professional cleanings remove tartar buildup that you simply can’t eliminate with brushing and flossing alone. Plus, during your appointment, we can spot potential problems early—like small cavities or gum disease—before they become bigger, more expensive issues.

At Higher Ground Dentistry, we make getting your teeth cleaned as convenient as possible. We’re open on Saturdays and Sundays, which means you don’t have to take time off work or pull your kids out of school. We also offer services in both English and Spanish (“Se habla Español”), so everyone in our Upland community feels comfortable and understood.

Ready to schedule your next cleaning? Dental Hygiene Month is the perfect time to get back on schedule.

Small Changes That Make a Big Impact

Beyond brushing and flossing, there are plenty of other ways to level up your oral health game this month.

Watch what you drink. Soda, sports drinks, and even fruit juices are loaded with sugar and acid that attack your tooth enamel. If you do indulge, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. Better yet, make water your go-to beverage.

Replace your toothbrush regularly. If your toothbrush looks like it’s been through a war, it’s time for a new one. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Worn bristles don’t clean effectively, and old toothbrushes can harbor bacteria.

Teach Your Kids Good Habits Now

If you have children, Dental Hygiene Month is an excellent opportunity to reinforce healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Let them pick out their own toothbrush in their favorite color. Make brushing fun with songs or timers. Most importantly, set a good example—when your children see you taking care of your teeth, they’re more likely to do the same.

Our family dentistry services at Higher Ground Dentistry include care for patients of all ages. We create a comfortable environment where even nervous kids can feel at ease.

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Dental Hygiene Month is also a great time to check in with yourself about any oral health concerns. Bleeding gums when you brush? Persistent bad breath? Tooth sensitivity? These aren’t things to shrug off—they’re your mouth’s way of telling you something needs attention.

At our Upland dental practice, we emphasize preventive dental care because we’d much rather help you avoid problems than have to fix them later. And with our in-house dental care plans, quality dental care is accessible even without traditional insurance.

Make It Stick

Here’s what I love about Dental Hygiene Month—it’s a chance to set specific, achievable goals for your oral health. Maybe your goal is to floss every single day this month. Perhaps you want to finally kick that soda habit. Or maybe you’re committing to scheduling those regular six-month cleanings you’ve been avoiding.

Whatever your goal, write it down. Small, consistent changes add up to significant improvements over time. And remember, oral health impacts overall health in ways you might not even realize. Research continues to show connections between oral health and conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

So this Dental Hygiene Month, don’t just think about improving your oral care—actually do something about it. Your future self will thank you for the healthy habits you establish now. Ready to take your oral health to higher ground? We’re here in Upland, open weekends, and ready to help you achieve your healthiest, most confident smile.