- Categories:
- Health
- Tags:
- Lifestyle
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every October
- Holiday emoji:
- 🦷
Dental Hygiene Month dedicates the entire month of October to promoting excellent oral health and recognizing the dedicated professionals who help us maintain it. Commit to a routine of brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups to keep your smile bright and healthy.
Want to sponsor Dental Hygiene Month? Learn how
Dental Hygiene Month timeline
National Dental Hygiene Month came about thanks to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (known more commonly as ADHA) and Wrigley. They saw the need to focus on stellar oral health.
​​China led the way in bristle toothbrushes by bringing the first one to the scene.
Fones School of Dental Hygiene opened its doors as the first dental hygiene school in the country.
Dental Hygiene Month FAQs
When is Dental Hygiene Month?
Dental Hygiene Month runs throughout October 2026, dedicating the entire month to promoting oral health and recognizing the vital work of dental hygienists across the nation.
How many dental hygienists are there in the U.S.?
As of recent estimates, there are approximately 220,000 licensed dental hygienists practicing in the United States, playing a crucial role in preventive dental care.
What is the economic impact of good oral hygiene?
Good oral hygiene significantly reduces the incidence of costly dental procedures, contributing to billions of dollars in healthcare savings annually by preventing serious oral diseases.
What is the difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist?
A dentist is a licensed professional qualified to diagnose and treat oral diseases, perform surgical procedures, and prescribe medication. A dental hygienist focuses primarily on preventive oral care, including cleanings, X-rays, and patient education.
How to Observe Dental Hygiene Month
Floss Every Day
Much controversy exists around flossing, but we are here to tell you (with the advice of dentists backing us) that flossing is something you should be doing every day. There are things that brushing just can’t take care of, and that’s where flossing comes in.
Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes
Brushing your teeth twice a day doesn’t only help battle morning breath and that lingering gross taste in your mouth, it also helps reduce the chances that you will develop gum disease. So every morning and every night, squeeze that toothpaste onto your toothbrush and get brushing, for two solid minutes.
Rinse With Mouthwash
Another thing that people think is optional with oral hygiene is mouthwash. But, according to dental hygienists, it shouldn’t be. Aim to make rinsing with mouthwash a regular occurrence after you brush and floss. This antimicrobial rinse will help keep your mouth clean and will do wonders for your breath.
​4 Steps For Proper Brushing Technique
​Get the right angle
For the most effective brushing, tilt the brush at a 45-degree angle. ​
​Get the motion down
Gently move the toothbrush back and forth. Be careful not to be too rough!​
​Cover all surfaces
Get inside, outside, top, bottom, and everywhere in between.​
​Don't forget the tongue
Loads of bacteria lives on your tongue so make sure you remember to brush that. Bonus points for fresher breath, too. ​
Why Dental Hygiene Month is Important
It encourages oral health
No one likes a dirty mouth, especially when it’s your own. Keeping your oral health on track is a great way to keep bacteria at bay. Without proper dental hygiene, you put yourself at risk of developing issues such as tooth decay and gum disease.
It celebrates the hard-working hygienists
With over 200,000 dental hygienists in the United States, this holiday is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the work that these fabulous people do to keep our mouths happy and healthy.
It's an excuse for a new toothbrush.
Admit it. New toothbrushes are fun — for a while. Most dentists recommend soft bristles, but make sure you check in with your dental professional to see what's best.
