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 […]
Don’t Let Stress Affect Your Smile
There are a lot of great reasons to focus on your mental and emotional well-being – it can strengthen your relationships, boost your productivity, and reduce your risk for anxiety and depression. But did you know that caring for your emotional health can also support your oral health? Several oral health conditions can stem from, or be complicated by, excess levels of stress. These include: Canker sores Dry mouth Gum disease (periodontitis) Teeth grinding (bruxism) Say “yes” to self-care Self-care isn’t selfish. In fact, making sure you have time and space for yourself is a vital part of reducing stress. How you approach self-care should be unique to you, but here are a few tips for getting started: Try to exercise regularly. Even a short walk allows you to enjoy the scenery, while still bringing benefits of movement. Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, guided meditation, or deep breathing. Eat […]
The Harmful Effects of Alcohol and Tobacco
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 […]
Travel Tips for Your Teeth
Whether you’re exploring someplace new or revisiting a favorite spot, vacation is the perfect time to kick back and forget about your day-to-day responsibilities. Just make sure you don’t forget your good oral health habits! Caring for your teeth and gums while traveling seems simple enough. However, changes to your schedule and the convenience of packaged snacks and fast food can make it difficult to take care of your smile. A little planning can help you keep your mouth and teeth in tip-top shape. Follow these easy tips to maintain your oral health wherever you go! Pack smile-friendly travel snacks It’s tempting to indulge in salty or sugary snacks, especially during layovers or long car rides. An easy way to travel healthier is to choose fresh fruits and vegetables! They keep well and give you more energy because they provide nutrition instead of empty calories. If you’re wondering which nutritious […]
The Not-So-Sweet Impact of Sugar on Your Oral & Overall Health
Valentine’s Day is a time to be sweet to those you love, whether that means your significant other, your friends, or your family. But there are a few not-so-sweet drawbacks to the love-filled holiday, and that’s the oral and overall health risks of some traditional Valentine’s Day treats. Candy conversation hearts, red velvet cheesecake, and chocolate martinis are all associated with celebration, but they’re also loaded with excess sugar. This matters because consuming too much sugar too often can contribute to: Plaque and tartar buildup Tooth decay Gum disease Overall health problems such as diabetes and heart disease Luckily, there are plenty of ways to limit sugar without losing the romance. Let’s review some oral and overall health risks and how you can avoid them. Sugar’s Impact on Your Oral Health The oral health impact of sugar can last long after the taste. That’s because sugar from candies, sodas, carbohydrates, […]
