Every October, we observe National Dental Hygiene Month — a country-wide initiative designed to celebrate the important work of dental hygienists and spread awareness about proper oral health.

At Goodwin University, we take this opportunity to recognize our many dental hygiene students and their aspirations to deliver essential and preventive dental services. This month (and every month), we also continue our work to increase access to oral health care within our community. Read on to learn more about our efforts, as well as Dental Hygiene Month!

What is National Dental Hygiene Month?

National Dental Hygiene Month is recognized every October in the United States, helping to spread awareness about the importance of oral health and hygiene. It is also designed to honor the essential work that dental hygienists provide. This month-long observance was originally established by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) in 2009 and now reaches its 15th anniversary in 2024.

Why is Dental Hygiene So Important (and Celebrated)?

Although it’s not always talked about, dental hygiene is critical to our overall health. Think about it: Oral health directly affects our ability to eat, speak, and smile. When we have issues with our oral health, it makes these activities much harder to do. But the impact of oral health goes much deeper. Because the mouth is a gateway into the body, it is also deeply connected to our physical health and well-being.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), oral disease—from your common cavity to gum disease—has the power to cause debilitating pain and exacerbate other health conditions. Poor oral hygiene can also increase a person’s risk for heart disease, stroke, and respiratory issues.

So, while brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist may seem routine, the impact these efforts can have on your health is profound—and worth celebrating. When a person has good oral health and keeps their mouth clean, they can experience benefits like:

• A brighter smile
• Enhanced self-confidence
• Fresher breath
• Improved digestion (healthy teeth allow you to chew, which is essential for digestion!)
• Protection against serious health conditions
• Reduced risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities

Unfortunately, though, many people end up neglecting their oral health. Due to busy schedules, financial hurdles, or simply a lack of awareness, oral hygiene can easily get deprioritized.

National Dental Hygiene Month serves as an annual reminder to take care of your mouth and get your regular dental cleanings. It also serves as a dedicated time of the year to:

• Celebrate the important professionals who provide dental hygiene care
• Educate others about the importance of good oral hygiene practices
• Spread awareness of, and access to, dental hygiene services

How Goodwin is Increasing Access to Dental Hygiene and Care

At Goodwin, we believe that everyone has the right to accessible health care, which includes preventative dental services and cleanings. That is why we built our Dental Hygiene Clinic: to facilitate access to oral health care in our Greater Hartford community.

Learn more about our Dental Hygiene Clinic here!

Goodwin’s Dental Hygiene Clinic delivers a variety of free dental hygiene services to both children and adults in the area. From sealants to fluoride treatments, dental screenings to periodontal scaling, these services are carefully delivered by our dental hygiene students, under the direction of licensed professionals.

How You Can Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month

You do not need to be a dental hygienist or dental hygiene student to take part — National Dental Hygiene Month is a great opportunity for everyone to re-focus on their oral health and educate others about the importance of dental hygiene and care. You can do this through a few, simple steps:

1. Commit to a daily routine: This month, take time to form old habits and prioritize the basic steps for good oral hygiene: brushing, flossing, rinsing, and chewing sugar-free gum.
2. Make an appointment with your dentist: If you haven’t had a dental check-up in a while, schedule one this month. Regular visits help catch potential problems early and keep your smile in top shape.
3. Spread awareness: Share the importance of dental hygiene with family and friends. Whether through conversations or social media, spreading awareness can help others make informed decisions about their oral care.
4. Try new things: If your current routine is lacking, use this month as an opportunity to try new products like an electric toothbrush, a water flosser, or a different type of mouthwash. Or, if you’re feeling extra-inspired, you might try your hand at a career in dental hygiene.

The Important Role of Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists are the unsung heroes when it comes to maintaining our oral health. And they do much more than clean teeth—these professionals also educate patients on proper oral care techniques, screen for oral diseases, and provide preventative care. This National Dental Hygiene Month, we celebrate their hard work and dedication to helping people achieve healthier smiles.

If you would like to learn how to become a dental hygienist, or would like more information on making an impact through Goodwin’s dental hygiene school, please do not hesitate to reach out. Call us today at 800-889-3282 or visit us online here.