When is World Oral Health Day?
World Oral Health Day occurs on March 20th.
What is World Oral Health Day?
We skip brushing for a lot of reasons. We didn’t leave enough time before work, or we’re too tired at the end of a long day. Our excuses won’t stop the rot, though. World Oral Health Day raises awareness about the importance of oral hygiene.
Why is World Oral Health Day on March 20? Children should have 20 baby teeth. At the ends of their lives, healthy seniors should have 20 natural teeth. And, healthy adults should have 32 teeth and 0 cavities, numbers that appear in the date 3/20.
Wait, 20 natural teeth at the end of life? That’s right. Dentures are no substitute for natural teeth. They’re a substitute for have no teeth at all. You might be glad for dentures one day, but you’ll miss your old teeth too.
In reality, dental decay is inevitable. It’s only a matter of time. The real question is this: do you want dentures at 65 or 45? If you’re hoping for later, World Oral Health Day is a good chance to polish up your dental habits.
Fun facts about World Oral Health Day!
- Dentists recommend brushing after every meal and snack.
- A Fixodent survey back in 2009 said 19% of American women over 40 wear dentures.
- A circular brushing motion (aimed at the gum line) is better than the back-and-forth saw maneuver. Sawing motions wear down your enamel faster.
- The first time you brush should be right when you wake up.
How to celebrate World Oral Health Day:
- Launch a World Oral Health Day event in your community. Coordinate with local dentists, dental students, and businesses to spread the word.
- Start flossing once a day and brushing twice a day. If you can’t brush that often, brush twice a day, morning and night. Floss with the night brushing.
What’s the hashtag for World Oral Health Day?
Use #WOHD and #SayAhh on social media to promote mouth health.