April is Oral Health Awareness Month, and at Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center (KCHC), we are excited to share practical tips to help families across Southeast Wisconsin maintain bright, healthy smiles.
Good oral health is more than just having a bright smile—it’s a critical part of overall health. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, approximately 1 in 5 third-grade children in Wisconsin have untreated tooth decay, a statistic that underscores the importance of consistent oral care and education.
Here are our top tips for keeping your family’s smiles bright and healthy:
1. Brush Twice a Day with Fluoride Toothpaste
Brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day using fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. A study from the American Dental Association (ADA) shows that brushing with fluoride toothpaste reduces cavities by up to 25%.
2. Don’t Skip Flossing
Flossing is just as important as brushing! It removes food particles and plaque between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Neglecting to floss can lead to gum disease, which affects nearly 47% of adults aged 30 and older, according to the Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC). Flossing at least once a day helps prevent cavities and maintains healthy gums.
3. Choose Water Over Sugary Drinks
Sugary beverages, like soda and fruit juices, contribute to tooth decay. Opting for water not only hydrates your body but also helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth. In Wisconsin, nearly 20% of children aged 2–4 have early childhood caries (ECC), making it essential for families to prioritize water over sugary drinks.
4. Snack Smart to Protect Your Teeth
Snacking on crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and celery naturally cleans your teeth and stimulates saliva production, which helps protect against cavities. Limiting sugary and starchy snacks reduces the risk of plaque buildup and decay.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Routine dental checkups and cleanings allow providers to detect problems early and prevent more serious oral health issues. The Wisconsin Oral Health Program encourages regular visits, especially for children. Children who visit the dentist regularly are more likely to maintain healthy oral habits throughout their lives.
Schedule your next dental appointment today:
- Pillar Health Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-1700
- KCHC 14th Avenue Kenosha Clinic: (262) 771-1688
- KCHC 2nd Street Silver Lake Clinic: (262) 771-1963
Together, we can create healthier, brighter smiles across Southeast Wisconsin.
WHY ORAL HEALTH MATTERS IN SOUTHEAST WISCONSIN
Access to dental care remains a challenge for many families in Southeast Wisconsin. According to the Wisconsin Oral Health Coalition, over 40% de adultos en Wisconsin did not receive a dental visit in the past year, highlighting the importance of making dental care more accessible.
Pillar Health and KCHC are dedicated to providing comprehensive cuidados dentales to families in our community. We offer general dentistry, dental care for children, y dental hygiene services to ensure that everyone has access to quality oral healthcare.
Your Partner in Oral Health
Oral health is directly linked to overall health, which is why regular dental care is essential. During Oral Health Awareness Month, we encourage families in Southeast Wisconsin to take charge of their oral health by scheduling a dental checkup and following these simple yet effective tips.
No espere para programar su cita.
Kenosha Community Health Center tiene muchas opciones de citas en Kenosha y Silver Lake para satisfacer sus necesidades.
Haga una Cita
