October is National Dental Hygiene Month. Maybe it’s no coincidence that it’s the same month as Halloween. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and the William Wrigley Jr. Company team up to sponsor  National Dental Hygiene Month in an effort to bring increased public awareness to the importance of maintaining good oral health.  The focus of ADHA and the Wrigley Oral Health Program (WOHP) is on the four contributors to good oral health maintenance: brushing twice daily, flossing daily, rinsing with antimicrobial rinse and chewing sugar-free gum. Research supports that chewing gum is actually beneficial because it stimulates saliva production, plaque acid neutralization and teeth strengthening. Our hygienists recommend our patients chew gum as a fun, convenient tool in oral care. These good habits of oral health care in a daily routine benefit not only oral health but also contribute to improved overall health.  Our dental hygienists, Karen, Tracy and Karla, collectively have been with our practice for over 54 years. In addition to their obvious professional experience, each hygienist brings a genuine passion to her work which is transferred to our patients in the care they receive.