GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO)-- To combat the influx of candy this Halloween season, dentists across the country have declared October National Dental Hygiene Month.

Local dentist Dr. Gary Andreoletti and his team are promoting initiative with the theme “Keep them healthy. Keep them clean.”

Andreoletti, who has practiced dentistry for more than 30 years, says prevention is the key to good oral health. He recommends routine checks and excellent care of your teeth and gums.

The Dental Hygiene Association recommends four easy steps to make big strides in your oral health. First, brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day.

Second, floss daily, which removes particles and plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach.

Third, rinse your mouth every day with an anti-microbial mouth rinse in an effort to prevent gum disease known as gingivitis.

Last, schedule a check-up and cleaning at least two times each year.

“Visits to the dentist allow my team and I the opportunity to check for problems that you may not see or feel. Beware: many dental problems don’t become visible or cause pain until they are in advanced stages,” warns Andreoletti.

Some statistics from the ADHA show that dental decay (cavities) is the most common chronic disease among children; it affects 50 percent of kids by middle childhood and nearly 70 percent by late adolescence.

An estimated 75 percent of American adults have some form of a periodontal disease, which is the most common cause of tooth loss. Early detection of this disease reduces the risk of permanent damage to teeth and gums and can prevent more extensive and costly treatment in later years.