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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Most people already know that smoking is a major health risk and excessive alcohol can cause many health problems. But you may not know the other ways they can make an impact – for example, how can drinking and smoking change your physical appearance? How do substances harm your teeth and gums? Are there ways to reduce risk? If you want to maintain or improve your oral and overall health, it’s useful to review the harmful and potentially dangerous effects these habits may have on your smile – then you can use the knowledge as a powerful motivator to break free and embrace a healthier you! Smoking, Drinking, and Your Physical Appearance The unhealthy ingredients and chemicals in tobacco and alcohol products can alter your appearance in ways that you might not guess. Exposure to smoke from tobacco can: Change your collagen levels, leading to loose-looking skin under your eyes […]