Autoimmune Diseases and Oral Health
Protecting Your Oral Health from Autoimmune Disease Autoimmune diseases are surprisingly widespread across the U.S. In fact, more than 50 million Americans have an autoimmune disease – and those numbers are rising. Despite how common these conditions are, many people are unaware of what exactly an autoimmune disease is, or how it can impact someone’s oral and overall health. Let’s learn more about how to spot them, the risks they pose to you and your smile, and what you can do about it. What are autoimmune diseases? Your immune system basically functions as your body’s self-defense system. It helps protect you from bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other threats. Autoimmune diseases are caused when this self-dense system doesn’t function properly and begins to attack healthy body tissue. There are more than 100 kinds of autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and celiac disease (gluten-sensitive enteropathy). Who […]
Dental Benefit Trends Every Broker Should Know
Best practices for oral health care have remained fairly consistent over the years – brush twice and floss once daily, see your dentist for preventive care, and so on. However, although the way we take care of our teeth doesn’t change, the world of dental benefits is always evolving. There can be many reasons for this, from consumer trends or attitudes toward the economy to new discoveries about oral health. With so much opportunity for change, it’s important to stay on top of current trends – so let’s review what’s happening in the modern world of dental benefits. The impact of the economy Employees and employers alike are worried about rising costs and the state of the economy, but it helps to explain that dental benefits aren’t an empty cost. Let employers know that U.S. adults lose an estimated 243 million work hours to oral health problems each year. By […]
Get Back-To-School Ready with a Dental Checkup
Summer is coming to an end, and classes will be in session before you know it. As you prepare for back-to-school season, make sure scheduling your next dental checkup is high on your to-do list! Kids with dental pain are 3x more likely to miss class time than kids with healthy teeth and gums.[1] Preventive dental care helps keep your kids smiling and focused on learning – because it helps address any oral health issues before they become more distracting or lead to school absences. So, what does preventive dental care entail? A strong daily oral health routine Establishing good oral hygiene practices is the foundation of maintaining a healthy smile while reducing mouth bacteria that lead to plaque, cavities, and gum disease. This includes: Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush that is the right size for their mouth. Flossing […]
How Sunshine Benefits Your Health
Most of us enjoy summertime because it’s the perfect season to meet up with family and friends and enjoy all the outdoor activities. But did you know that summer sunshine also offers health benefits, even for your smile? Sunny days aren’t just for fun – they can also improve your emotional, oral, and overall health! Sunshine can be good for you in many ways! For starters, the vitamin D that sunshine helps your body produce can: Help your body absorb calcium so you can maintain strong teeth and bones. Boost your immune system and help reduce your risk for heart disease. Play a key role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. But the good benefits of the great outdoors don’t stop there. In fact, some of the benefits of being outside continue after you’ve gone back inside. For example: Sunlight supports a relaxed mood because it causes […]
Why Oral Health Matters for Men
Hey men, listen up! Did you know June is Men’s Health Month? Let’s celebrate by learning more about why men – even more than women – need to be extra vigilant about their oral health care. Men are more at risk When it comes to oral health, there’s a surprising difference between the genders – and that’s sobering news for men, who are more likely than women to experience oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, dental trauma, and oral cancers.[1] There are many potential reasons for this – including unhealthy habits. Studies have shown that men are more likely than women to: Forget to brush and floss.[2] Skip routine dental visits.[3] Drink alcohol and use tobacco. Spend time in the sun absorbing UV rays.[4] Ignore oral health issues until they get worse.[5] Play contact sports without wearing a mouth guard. Ride a bike or motorcycle without a helmet. There […]
