October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to celebrate the hard-working professionals who are essential to keeping our smiles bright and healthy. 

At My Hometown Dentist, our dental hygienists are more than just friendly faces. They’re highly skilled health experts and your partners in care who are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful smile in San Antonio.

Call us today to schedule your next dental checkup.

We know that a visit to the dentist can sometimes feel a bit formal, but our hygienists are real people with a passion for what they do. To celebrate them this month, we wanted to share five things they wish every patient knew. These are the little secrets that can make a big difference for your oral health and for your next appointment!

1. Flossing Isn’t Optional

We know, we know—you’ve heard this before. But your hygienist truly wants you to understand why it’s so important. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. 

Without flossing, you’re leaving about 40 percent of your tooth surfaces uncleaned! That leftover plaque can lead to gum disease and cavities. Your hygienist can tell when you’ve been flossing (or not!), and they’re always happy to show you the best technique.

2. Regular Cleanings Are About More Than Just Your Teeth

When you come in for a professional cleaning, we aren’t just polishing your teeth. Our hygienists are carefully checking for early signs of problems like gum disease, oral cancer, and cavities. 

They use special instruments to remove hardened plaque, called tartar, that you can’t get rid of on your own. This preventive care is the most important part of keeping your mouth healthy. It helps you keep that beautiful smile in San Antonio for life by stopping small issues from becoming big, painful, and expensive ones.

3. Your Diet Affects Your Teeth

What you eat and drink has a big impact on your oral health. Your hygienist wishes you’d think twice about that sugary soda or constant snacking. Frequent exposure to sugar and acids from certain foods can wear down your enamel and cause cavities. 

They aren’t trying to ruin your fun; they just want to remind you that choosing water and healthy snacks like crunchy vegetables can do wonders for your teeth.

4. Brushing Technique Matters More Than Brushing Hard

Many people think brushing harder is better. It’s not! Brushing too hard can actually damage your gums and wear away your tooth enamel. Your hygienist wants you to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions. It’s all about the technique, not the force. 

They can also recommend an electric toothbrush, which can do a lot of the work for you and ensure a more consistent clean.

5. We Are Here to Be Your Partners

Our hygienists see their role as a partnership. They want to work with you to achieve your best oral health. They aren’t there to scold you if you’ve missed a few days of flossing. 

Instead, they are dedicated to educating you, answering your questions, and giving you personalized tips and advice. Your comfort and well-being are their top priorities, and they want you to feel empowered and in control of your dental health.

This National Dental Hygiene Month, we want to thank our amazing hygienists for everything they do. They are an essential part of our team and a key reason our patients leave with happy, healthy smiles. If you’re ready to get your teeth sparkling and learn more about how to keep them that way, it’s a great time to come see us.

Call My Hometown Dentist today at one of our four convenient locations to schedule your next cleaning and exam.