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November marks the beginning of the holiday season, and with it comes a time for reflection, gratitude and celebration. It is the perfect month to show your smile some appreciation with National Brush Day, TMJ Awareness Month and Thanksgiving all on the calendar. These observances remind us of the importance of maintaining dental health and being thankful for a pain-free, confident smile. Here is how you can honor your oral health this November and keep your smile shining through the holidays.
National Brush Day: Reinforce the Basics
November 1st is National Brush Day, an initiative created to promote the importance of good brushing habits, especially after indulging in Halloween goodies throughout October. While it is easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and indulge in sweet snacks, National Brush Day serves as a great reminder to maintain consistent oral hygiene habits every day.
Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time is key to preventing cavities and gum disease. Using fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen enamel and protect teeth from decay while following up with flossing removes any stubborn particles that brushing might miss.
November is also a good time to replace that old toothbrush. Most dentists recommend swapping out your toothbrush (or brush head) every three months, or sooner if the bristles are already frayed. A new toothbrush will ensure your brushing routine is as effective as possible.
TMJ Awareness Month: Addressing Jaw Pain
November is also TMJ Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. TMJ disorders affect the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, and they can cause a variety of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, clicking sounds when opening your mouth and difficulty chewing.
Stress is often a contributing factor to TMJ issues, and with the holidays approaching, it is important to be mindful of how holiday stress may exacerbate your symptoms. If you notice jaw discomfort or stiffness, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques like meditation, gentle stretching or massage into your routine. Additionally, avoid chewing gum or hard foods which can strain your jaw.
If you are experiencing persistent TMJ pain, scheduling an appointment with your dentist can help. Treatments range from custom mouth guards to help alleviate nighttime grinding to more specialized treatments if necessary. You may also need restorative dental work due to tooth wear from grinding or bite issues. The clenching and or grinding of the teeth can lead to additional dental problems: cracked or sensitive teeth, gum recession and even tooth loss. Dental solutions like crowns, bridges or dental implants can help restore balance to your bite and reduce jaw strain.
Thanksgiving: Gratitude for Your Smile
While enjoying your favorite holiday dishes, take a moment to feel gratitude for your smile, which helps you communicate, laugh and eat all your favorite foods.
Be mindful that some Thanksgiving foods can be hard on your teeth. Sticky or sugary dishes like cranberry sauce or pies can cling to teeth, increasing the risk of decay. Try balancing your plate with smile-friendly foods like fiber-rich vegetables and calcium-packed dairy products, which help protect your teeth and gums.
After the Thanksgiving feast, make it a habit to drink plenty of water and rinse your mouth to wash away stray food particles. Maintaining your brushing and flossing routine throughout the holiday season will help prevent any unwanted dental problems from sneaking up on you.
Celebrate Your Smile This November
With National Brush Day, TMJ Awareness Month and Thanksgiving all observed in November, this is the perfect time to be mindful of your dental health and appreciate the role your healthy smile plays in your life. Whether it is refreshing your brushing routine, seeking relief from TMJ discomfort or simply giving thanks for your healthy teeth, make your smile a priority this month. Your future self will thank you!