World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is celebrated on March 20 every year. This celebration is the culmination of a year-long international campaign dedicated to raising global awareness on the prevention and control of oral diseases. It is set aside as a day to promote good oral health for everyone and empower individuals to maintain a healthy mouth at all ages.

The World Dental Federation (FDI) is the primary driver of WOHD and is comprised of more than one million dentists worldwide. As a unified voice for dentistry, this group works to develop health policies and continuing education programs to promote good oral health throughout the world. With this campaign, the FDI works to inspire individuals to take action to protect their oral health.

Following are a few of the basic guidelines the FDI emphasizes:

Visit Your Dentist

This seems obvious, but statistics reflect that only 65.7 percent of adults in the United States go to the dentist on a regular basis. Regular trips to your dentist every six months are an important preventative measure that will save time and money down the road. Your dentist can catch early signs of disease, help you develop healthy habits, and be a vital part of your health care team if you have an overall medical condition or are pregnant. Learn more reasons why you need to see a dentist on a regular basis.

Dr. Shane S. Porter

Dr. Shane S. Porter of Premier Dentistry of Eagle, is a good choice when it comes to selecting a dentist. He graduated at the top of his class at Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry, earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree while amassing many academic and clinical awards. Additionally, he served as an officer in the United State Army Dental Corps where he completed a two-year advanced surgical education and general dentistry residency. He is also board certified by the American Board of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by only one percent of all dentists in America and also earned his Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. Obviously, Dr. Porter has the credentials to be an excellent dentist, however, he not only provides dental excellence, he also provides compassion and gentle care towards all of his patients. Check out his website to learn more about his expertise, then call to make an appointment at (208) 546-0655.

Brush and Clean Between Your Teeth Daily

Healthy habits like brushing and cleaning between your teeth helps to prevent cavities and maintain a healthy smile. Brush for two minutes, twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft bristle toothbrush and floss once a day (preferably before bed). Get your kids on the right path from the beginning of their young lives.  Click here to learn some helpful tips for teaching your children how to properly brush their teeth.

Practice Healthy Nutrition Habits

What you put in your mouth affects your general health and the health of your teeth and gums. Sugar gives cavity-causing bacteria something to munch on. When this happens, acid is produced that can break down your enamel. On the other hand, healthy foods that contain calcium can strengthen your teeth. Ask Dr. Porter about foods that are good for your dental health, and strategies to cut sugary snacking for kids and adults alike.

Drink Water from the Tap

The healthiest beverage for your teeth is water—especially if it’s fluoridated. Although bottled water is handy, studies show drinking water with fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by at least 25%. Most tap water is treated with fluoride, but bottled water is not typically fluoridated. Tap water is handy, less expensive than buying water, and it’s better for the environment to keep all those plastic bottles out of the landfill.  Learn more about water fluoridation and why water is the best drink for your teeth.

With the proper care, your teeth can last you a lifetime and good dental health is something you can enjoy at every stage of your life. No matter what your age, good oral health is vital to your general health and well-being.

Oral Health: Self-Evaluation Checklists

The FDI has developed some printable self-evaluation checklists with oral care tips for children and adults. These checklists are meant to have you evaluate your current oral hygiene habits and they also provide some practical tips on how to improve your daily oral care routines. Follow this link for the printable downloads.

Dr. Porter offers a wide variety of services for your whole family. From general and family dentistry to cosmetic dentistry, he is skilled in the latest state- of-the-art dentistry and has the expertise to care for all of your dental needs. Learn what types of services he provides and then call for an appointment at (208) 546-0655.

Conveniently located at 467 South Rivershore Lane in Eagle, Dr. Porter provides excellent care for patients in the surrounding communities of Star, Middleton, Meridian, Garden City, and Boise, Idaho.

Plan now how you will celebrate World Oral Health Day on March 20. A good place to start is to make a commitment to take action to protect your oral health and make an appointment with Dr. Porter!