What is Dental Hygiene Month?
Dental Hygiene Month, observed every October, is a national initiative to promote oral health awareness and celebrate the vital role dental hygienists play in maintaining healthy smiles. Established in 2009 by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) in collaboration with the William Wrigley Jr. Company, this month-long observance emphasizes the importance of preventive care and good oral hygiene habits.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: Every October.
- Tagged as: Oral Health Awareness, Preventive Care.
- What’s the hashtag?: #DentalHygieneMonth.
- When was it founded?: 2009.
- Who founded it?: The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and William Wrigley Jr. Company.
History of Dental Hygiene Month
The origins of Dental Hygiene Month trace back to 1949 when the ADHA began observing National Dental Hygiene Week. As awareness of oral health grew, this week-long celebration expanded into a month-long observance in 2009. The initiative was designed to educate the public about the connection between oral health and overall well-being while honoring dental hygienists for their dedication to preventive care.
Timeline
- 1906: Dr. Alfred Fones trains Irene Newman, the first dental hygienist.
- 1913: Fones establishes the first dental hygiene school in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
- 1923: The ADHA is founded.
- 1949: National Dental Hygiene Week begins.
- 2009: National Dental Hygiene Month is officially launched.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October 1 | Monday |
| 2030 | October 1 | Tuesday |
Observed
Dental Hygiene Month is observed through educational campaigns, community outreach programs, and activities promoting the “Daily Four” for oral health:
- Brush twice a day for two minutes.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
- Rinse with mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva and combat tooth decay.
Fun Facts About Dental Hygiene
- Irene Newman became the first licensed dental hygienist in 1917.
- Poor oral health has been linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
- Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help prevent cavities by increasing saliva production.
Quiz
- True or False: Flossing is more important than brushing.
- How often should you visit your dentist?
a) Once a year
b) Every six months
c) Only when you have pain
Answers:
- True
- b) Every six months
FAQs
Q: Why is Dental Hygiene Month important?
A: It raises awareness about oral health’s impact on overall well-being and celebrates dental hygienists’ contributions.
Q: What are some common oral hygiene tips?
A: Brush twice daily, floss daily, use mouthwash, and visit your dentist regularly.
Related Observances
- World Oral Health Day (March)
- National Tooth Fairy Day (February and August)
- Gum Health Awareness Month (September)
Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month by prioritizing your oral health and thanking dental hygienists for their hard work!