October is designated as National Dental Hygiene Month in order to help people maintain proper oral health and recognize the role of dental hygienists. This month aims at encouraging people to develop the habit of brushing and flossing their teeth on a daily basis, visiting dentists on a regular basis, and realizing the importance of prevention in keeping the teeth healthy and disease-free. By 2026, dental facilities, professionals, products, and people can use this opportunity.
History
The National Dental Hygiene Month was established in 2009 by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), along with the Wrigley Oral Healthcare Program. The purpose of this event was to create awareness of oral health among the public as well as to recognize the work of dental hygienists in preventative care.
Though brushing and flossing are daily activities performed by people, the concept of oral hygiene is much more than just cleaning your mouth. Preventative care helps in identifying problems at an early stage and making the right decisions for your oral health. All of this comes into notice during the month of October.
The role of dental hygienists is significant in all these activities. They provide preventative care and educate people about oral health.
Dental Hygiene Month Hero
Alfred Fones
Dr. Alfred Fones is widely regarded as the Father of Dental Hygiene. In the early 20th century, Fones recognized the importance of preventive oral care and trained his cousin, Irene Newman, to provide dental cleaning and hygiene services. He later established the first dental hygiene school in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1913.
Fones’ work helped establish dental hygiene as a distinct profession focused on prevention and patient education. His contribution remains an important part of the history behind the profession celebrated during October.
Dental Hygiene Month Dates
|
Year |
Date | Day |
|
2026 |
October 1–31 | Thursday–Saturday |
|
2027 |
October 1–31 |
Friday–Sunday |
| 2028 | October 1–31 |
Sunday–Tuesday |
|
2029 |
October 1–31 |
Monday–Wednesday |
| 2030 | October 1–31 |
Tuesday–Thursday |
Dental Hygiene Month Timeline
- 1906 – Development of preventive dental hygiene
Irene Newman, the cousin of Alfred Fones, was educated on dental cleaning techniques and preventive practices, setting the stage for the profession of dental hygiene.
- 1913 – First school for dental hygiene opens
Fones opened up the first dental hygiene school in Bridgeport, Connecticut, which marked a milestone in dental hygiene education.
- 1923 – Establishment of ADHA
American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) was established to speak for dental hygienists.
- 2009 – The beginning of National Dental Hygiene Month
In collaboration with the Wrigley Oral Healthcare Program, ADHA has been working on the observance since then to raise awareness about dental hygiene.
- 2026 – Oral health awareness remains a key issue
The National Dental Hygiene Month 2026 includes a #BrushItForward social campaign from October 1 to October 31.
How to Observe Dental Hygiene Month
- Floss Every Day
Flossing is useful in cleaning the gaps between the teeth that the brush might miss. Adding flossing as part of the daily regimen will assist in getting rid of any food debris and plaque in these areas. Those having trouble using normal floss should consult a dentist on alternative methods of interdental cleaning.
- Brush Twice Daily for Two Minutes
Brushing twice a day is one of the easiest practices for oral hygiene. Brush the teeth using fluoride toothpaste and for two minutes. Brush the inner sides, outer sides, and top chewing surfaces.
Brushing harder is not better; brushing gently with the right toothbrush can help to remove the plaque while causing less gum irritation.
- Rinsing with Mouthwash
Mouthwash can be used alongside brushing and flossing in general oral health practices. There are various types of mouthwashes that serve different functions. It would be better to choose the one that suits one’s needs. The dentist or dental hygienist can recommend the type to use.
Steps To Brushing Properly in Four Easy Steps
- Achieving the correct angle
The correct angle for brushing your teeth is a 45-degree angle towards the gums. The purpose of achieving this is to ensure that the bristles get into the spot where the teeth and the gum meet.
- The motion
Instead of scrubbing, use light circular strokes in brushing. Scrubbing can result in damage to the gum tissues because it doesn’t necessarily make teeth cleaner.
- Cover all sides
It’s important to brush all surfaces of each tooth including the inner surface, outer surface, and chewing surfaces.
- Don’t forget the tongue
Since the tongue holds bacteria and food particles, it’s important to brush the tongue too.
Reasons for Observing Dental Hygiene Month
Encourages oral hygiene
Some of the goals of National Dental Hygiene Month are reminding people that preventive oral care is very important. Brushing the teeth, flossing and going to the dentist can help people to take care of their oral hygiene and any other problem related to it.
The importance of oral hygiene is bigger than just having healthy looking teeth. Some oral problems can influence the ability to eat, talk, or feel good.
It is time to appreciate the work of hygienists
There are a lot of roles for hygienists. They clean teeth, teach how to take care of teeth, and evaluate oral hygiene of the patient. National Dental Hygiene Month gives an opportunity to show the skills of hygienists and their work for the patients. October is the time when people celebrate the work of hygienists and spread awareness about oral health practices.
Buying a new toothbrush
Another reason for observing Dental Hygiene Month is a perfect time to review your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head because worn out bristles cannot clean your teeth properly.
Platform Guide for Dental Hygiene Month
Dental professionals can use LinkedIn to share professional insights, oral health statistics, educational resources, and information about the role of dental hygienists. Practices can also recognize their hygiene teams and highlight preventive-care services.
Facebook is a good choice for posting long articles on education, community news, reminders of good oral health practices, and office updates. The dental clinic can post basic recommendations on brushing, flossing, visits to the dentist, and other useful practices.
There are a number of ways to educate visually by using Instagram reels, carousels, infographics, and short tutorials. Dentists can show proper brushing techniques, reveal frequent oral health mistakes, or present their team members.
- Individuals
An individual can get involved by improving one’s daily oral care routine, booking a visit to the dentist, purchasing a new toothbrush, and reminding one’s family members about oral health issues.
- Creators
Creators can produce educational videos on popular questions related to dental hygiene, proper brushing and flossing techniques, products used for oral care, and misconceptions about dental hygiene practices. Collaboration with qualified dental professionals will help make the information accurate.
- Brands
Brands can use the month of October to organize educational campaigns instead of promoting products alone. There can be challenges, collaboration with dental professionals, guides on oral care, and other initiatives aimed at preventive-care messages and products.
Partners & Brands for Dental Hygiene Month
American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA)
ADHA represents dental hygienists and promotes education, advocacy, professional development, and oral health awareness.
- Colgate
Colgate offers toothpaste, toothbrushes, and mouthwash and supports oral health awareness campaigns.
- Crest
Crest promotes consistent oral hygiene through its range of dental care products.
- Oral-B
Oral-B provides manual and electric toothbrushes that can support brushing education.
- Philips Sonicare
Philips Sonicare specializes in electric toothbrushes and oral care technology.
- Waterpik
Waterpik is known for water flossers and interdental cleaning products.
How Can Businesses Promote Dental Hygiene Month?
The dental offices can educate their clients about how to maintain healthy teeth and gums by posting some tips online, running awareness sessions, and celebrating dental hygienists through social media platforms.
The schools and organizations can bring dental practitioners together for discussion about brushing, flossing, nutrition, and preventive care.
The dental product companies can combine the promotion activities with some education, expertise, live demonstrations, and social media challenges. The ADHA’s calendar for 2026 also includes #BrushItForward challenge from October 1 to 31.
Dental Hygiene Month FAQs
When is Dental Hygiene Month?
National Dental Hygiene Month is observed throughout October every year. In 2026, it runs from October 1 through October 31.
Is October National Dental Hygiene Month?
Yes. October is recognized as National Dental Hygiene Month in the United States to promote oral health and recognize dental hygienists.
When is Hygiene Appreciation Week?
National Dental Hygienists’ Week is traditionally observed in April and recognizes the contributions of dental hygienists to preventive oral healthcare.
How many dental hygienists are there in the U.S.?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks dental hygienists as a separate healthcare occupation and publishes current employment data for the profession.
What is the economic impact of good oral hygiene?
Good oral hygiene can help prevent costly dental problems, reduce the need for complex treatments, and minimize disruptions caused by poor oral health.
What is the difference between a dentist and a dental hygienist?
A dentist diagnoses and treats oral diseases, while a dental hygienist focuses mainly on preventive care, professional cleanings, and oral health education.
Is February a dental health month?
Yes. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, which focuses on children’s oral health. National Dental Hygiene Month is observed in October.
