Brush Better, Not Harder

Your Oral Health Matters!

Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. Removing it through daily dental care, such as brushing and flossing between your teeth, helps prevent it from hardening into tartar, which can protect your oral health from cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.

But many of us may be brushing harder rather than brushing properly. This can damage tooth enamel and irritate the gums.

Read the latest post, "Brush Better, Not Harder." Find information on:

The risk to your teeth and gums from brushing too hard.
Recommended toothbrushing techniques from the American Dental Association to safely remove dental plaque.
Toothbrushing: How frequently and how long?

Brush Better, Not Harder

Es Mejor Cepillarse Bien Que Con Más Fuerza 

How to Fit Your Wellness Habits

Into the Fall Season

As the Fall season approaches, the weather begins to cool and daylight hours shorten, making it tempting to cozy up indoors. It can be easy to neglect your healthy habits as the season transitions from summer to autumn.

Healthy habits, such as eating nutritious foods and staying active, can support heart health, boost your energy, and promote overall well-being. Here are some tips to align or reset your wellness practices so you can stay fit and feel your best during the Fall.

Enjoy the Fall Seasonal Produce

Add seasonal fruits and veggies, such as apples, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens, to your meals. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support your immune system. Try making hearty soups, roasted vegetable dishes, or fresh salads. Explore the seasonal produce guide. Visit eatfresh.org for recipe ideas.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water. You may drink less water, even as temperatures cool. Staying hydrated helps support the immune system and other bodily functions. Reach for tap water to prevent cavities.

Stay Active

It can be easy to become less active when it is cooler and gets darker earlier. Try wearing warmer clothing for outdoor activities, or find a better time of day for your exercise routine, such as mid-morning, to get your steps in. You can also try indoor options such as stretching, yoga, strength training, or dancing.

Give Your Mental Health a Boost

Shorter days and less natural light can trigger shifts in mood and energy. Stretch, take deep breaths, meditate, or do an activity you enjoy. Spend time with family and friends to boost your mood and provide social support.

Get Some Quality Sleep

The seasonal shift can affect your sleep pattern and your body’s natural rhythm. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning. This can help regulate your internal clock.

Join a Webinar on the Status and Future

of Oral Health in California

The Delta Dental Community Care Foundation invites you and your teams to a webinar to learn about the State Office of Oral Health.

When: Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

What you will learn about:

The Office of Oral Health and initiatives to improve oral health statewide.
California Department of Public Health and the Office of Oral Health’s resources, including Community Water Fluoridation.
Ways to engage with policymakers on oral health priorities — especially given the upcoming changes to Medi-Cal and the recent state budget cycle, and more.

Whom will you hear from:

Dr. Shakalpi Pendurkar, DDS, MPH, California State Dental Director.
Eileen Espejo, Senior Managing Director, Children Now and Co-Chair, California Partnership for Oral Health.

Registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_omdKHKhcTD2A7DS-3JGtbA

Medi-Cal Has a New Digital Toolkit for

Managed Care Health Plan Dental Liaisons

and Community Health Workers

Medi-Cal has a new toolkit designed to support Managed Care Health Plan (MCHP) Dental Liaisons and Community Health Workers (CHWs) in helping Medi-Cal members access the dental care they need.

As trusted guides in the health care system, Dental Liaisons and CHWs play a vital role in removing barriers and connecting members to covered services.

Explore the entire toolkit and find the following resources and more.

Links to Printed Material: