It might seem ironic that October is National Dental Hygiene Month, but what better time is there to care for your pearly whites than the same time you’re about to gorge on candy? Some states even offer programs where dentists buy the candy from kids and throw it away.

(Of course, they may not really throw it away; not every dentist is like Willy Wonka’s dad. There’s always the chance that they could hoard it for themselves or sell it on the dental black market…)

All joking aside, dental health is pretty important—especially if you want to do things like chew or eat and the like all of your life. I never really understood why my dad made such a big deal about going to the dentist until I was old enough to get that I would need my teeth for a pretty long time, and to do so I would have to take care of them myself.

Here are some things you can do just for your teeth this month.

• Schedule that appointment. If you’ve been too scared to visit the dentist in the past, you’re not alone. Today’s dentists often have things to help you relax, such as sedation dentistry. Ask about that if you’re nervous about going. If nothing else, at least make use of your dental insurance if you have it; most plans do offer free cleanings.
• Go to a dental clinic. If you can’t afford the dentist, you could still go to a dental clinic or a dental school to have some work done for a much cheaper amount.
• Floss. Why is it that we neglect flossing our teeth so much? For mere minutes a day we can help protect our teeth and get rid of gross gunk between them. Do it while you’re sitting on the toilet, while you’re waiting on hold with customer service, while you’re listening to your coworker blab about something she’s said a thousand times… You can definitely fit it in somewhere, so no excuses!
• Make an effort to brush more often. Some people only brush when they wake up. Some only do when they go to bed. Both of these should be done—and if you can brush after lunch, or any other meal or snack you have, go for it. I used to get slack from people when I managed a restaurant because I’d always brush my teeth with my little travel pack after my break time meal, but I’ll gladly take that over cavities.