Inspire your kids to care for their smiles
When it comes to dental care habits for children, a little fun can go a long way. By adding some extra excitement into their oral hygiene routine, you can help motivate them to keep their smile healthy throughout childhood and the rest of their lifetime. Reward them for successes Whether your child remembered to floss or said no to sugar at a sleepover, small rewards can be a big boost for good oral health behavior. Read them their favorite book or two before bed if they brushed for the full two minutes. Or set up a reward chart and add a fun sticker every time they remember to floss without a reminder throughout the week. Find hygiene tools that make them smile Children need basic tooth care tools and supplies like a toothbrush, floss, toothpaste and toothbrush holder. But no one said those tools have to be boring. Choose brushes […]
Oral health and heart disease
You might be surprised to learn that the health of your teeth and gums can affect the rest of your body and vice versa. Such a connection has long been speculated between oral health and heart disease. While research in this area is ongoing, studies suggests a link between the health of our mouths and the health of our hearts. A review published in the Journal of Periodontology found that gum disease is a risk factor for coronary heart disease and that people with gum disease and fewer teeth have a higher risk of stroke.1 Another study reported by the American Heart Association found that people with healthier gums respond better to blood pressure treatment.2 The link between gum disease and heart disease is largely due to the existence of plaque in both conditions, but it’s hard to say if plaque on teeth causes plaque in arteries or if it’s […]
Seven Diseases that Affect Your Mouth
During a routine dental exam, your dentist can help detect more than 120 health conditions, making regular dental visits essential to having good oral and overall health. Because your oral health is closely connected to your overall health, certain diseases might leave your teeth and gums with unexpected symptoms. Take a look at some of the effects common systemic diseases may have on your mouth. Diabetes The primary condition associated with diabetes is gum disease or periodontitis. Roughly a third of all those with diabetes have a severe form of gum disease 1 that can damage supporting bone structures around teeth, increasing the likelihood of loose teeth or tooth loss. Diabetes may also lead to oral thrush and dry mouth.2 Oral thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth that causes small white bumps to develop,3 and dry mouth is a lack of saliva that can lead to bad breath, tooth […]
Start the year with a great smile and use your dental benefits
Having dental benefits contributes to better oral and overall health. Research shows that people with dental coverage are more likely to go to the dentist. Schedule your next dental appointment and start 2019 with a healthy smile and body. Here’s why you should visit your dentist regularly and how you can maximize your dental benefits in the new year. Getting Preventive Dental Care Avoids More Costly Treatment Regular preventive care allows the dentist to spot and treat oral health issues early, helping you avoid costly and serious dental problems in the future. Plus, most dental plans cover preventive dental care, such as cleanings, exams and X-rays, at little or no cost to you. Oral and Overall Health are Linked Your oral health is connected to your overall health. Studies show that gum disease is linked to numerous health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. In fact, more than 120 […]
5 Tips for Choosing a Dentist
An effective oral health routine includes regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. Because dental care providers play an essential role in the health of your smile, finding one you trust is worth a little extra time and effort. Take a look at our simple tips to consider when searching for a dentist. Network participation Depending on your dental benefits plan, you’ll be covered under a certain dental network. Some dentists will participate in that network and others will not. To realize the most savings, select an in-network dentist. This providerhas agreed to set fees for certain services, and your benefits will cover the most cost for in-network care. In fact, those with TruAssure plans save an average of 20 to 40 percent by choosing network dentists. See how you can save money by visiting a network dentist. Office location Depending on what’s easiest for you, choose a dental office […]
