People throughout the world are celebrating World Oral Health Day today-- March 20. World Oral Health Day is an international day that highlights the benefits of having a healthy mouth, promotes global awareness about issues related to oral health, and shines a spotlight on the importance of making sure everyone maintains good oral hygiene.

To help people stay on track and maintain good oral health habits throughout the year, Dr. George Koumaras, National Dental director for Anthem, Inc. offers the following tips:

1) Brush Regularly. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends people brush their teeth two times a day for two minutes. This simple habit can make a big difference over time.

2) Floss Frequently. To achieve and maintain optimum oral health, organizations like the American Dental Association recommend flossing at least once a day. Flossing regularly helps remove plaque between the teeth that is not removed by brushing. And, flossing can help prevent cavities and gum disease. However, flossing should not be a painful experience! There may be a little discomfort when a person is initially developing this habit, but the discomfort should subside after the first week or so. If it does not, then visit the dentist.

3) Practice Smart Snacking. Most snacks include sugars and starches. Sugar and starches act as fuel to the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Avoid hard candy and other sweets that might stay in the mouth for a long period of time. The quantity and the amount of time sugary foods and sweets stay in the mouth plays a major role in tooth decay. Eat snacks from the basic food groups, such as fruits and veggies, whole grains, milk and dairy products, meat, nuts and seeds. Try to eat sugary foods less often, and drink water instead of sugary drinks. Smart snacking can help protect against tooth decay and other diseases.

4) Get regular checkups. Remember to schedule a checkup appointment with your dentist. It’s important to maintain regular and routine preventive dental care throughout the year because a regular dental exam can bring attention to issues that aren’t visible or painful in the early stages. In addition, a dentist can spot early warning signs in the mouth that may indicate disease elsewhere in the body1.

5) Smile. After taking time to follow the oral health tips outlined above, remember to smile because a healthy mouth is a happy mouth! When people see someone with a gorgeous set of pearly whites it can motivate them to get on the bandwagon and brush up on their oral health habits.

Remember to share these tips with your family and friends as you celebrate World Oral Health Day this year.

Source:

1-American Dental Association: http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/dentists-doctors-of-oral-health

About Anthem, Inc.

Anthem is working to transform health care with trusted and caring solutions. Our health plan companies deliver quality products and services that give their members access to the care they need. With more than 68 million people served by its affiliated companies, including more than 37 million enrolled in its family of health plans, Anthem is one of the nation’s leading health benefits companies. For more information about Anthem’s family of companies, please visit www.antheminc.com/companies.