April is National Oral Health Month

Did you know that having good oral hygiene habits are just as important as healthy eating and staying active? Each of these habits contributes to disease prevention and healthy living.

During Oral Health Month I’d like to remind you that a clean, healthy, pain-free mouth contributes to better chewing, speaking clearly, sleeping well and feeling good about yourself. Remember: a healthy mouth means a healthy you.

Durham Region Health Department supports the efforts of all residents to have good oral health and suggests following these recommendations to help ensure proper oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste and floss at least once a day to remove the plaque between your teeth to help prevent cavities and gum disease.
• Eat a variety of healthy foods each day and drink plenty of water.
• Limit sugary drinks and try to choose water first. Water helps flush food debris, acid, and bacteria from your mouth.
• Check your mouth regularly for signs of oral cancer. For more information visit durham.ca/OralCancer.
• Limit alcohol intake and avoid all tobacco and vaping products.
• Visit your dentist regularly to check the health of your teeth and mouth.

The Health Department’s Oral Health division manages two provincially funded dental programs to help eligible children and seniors access dental care. Healthy Smiles Ontario offers free dental care for eligible children and youth 17 and under, and the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program covers basic dental care for eligible seniors.

For more information about Durham Region Health Department’s oral health programs and services, visit durham.ca/OralHealth.