How can gum disease be linked to heart disease?
February is American Heart Month and because heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, we hear a lot about it. But did you know that evidence shows there is a relationship between gum disease and heart disease? Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gum tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place. In its early stage, it’s called gingivitis and can cause inflamed, red gums that bleed. Without proper daily oral care, gingivitis may worsen and become periodontitis. Periodontitis is a form of gum disease that causes the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth allowing for further tooth decay, loss of bone, and eventually tooth loss. Oral bacteria may be the link to heart disease The main cause of gum disease is harmful oral bacteria found in tooth plaque and tartar. […]
Keeping your mouth healthy during winter
It’s cold outside. Are you someone that enjoys the cold weather and enjoys winter outdoor activities? Or would you rather be inside where it’s warm? Whether you’re going outside for a quick minute or spending an extended period of time, the cold weather during the winter months can have an impact on your oral health. Here are some healthy mouth tips to keep you smiling all winter long. Chapped lips can occur year-long, but exposing your lips to the wind and cold can quickly dry them out. Inside heat can also remove moisture from the air. Wear a moisturizing lip balm (with SPF) daily to protect your lips. Reapply it often. Already have chapped lips? Petroleum jelly locks in moisture and is an inexpensive way to keep your lips hydrated. Dry Mouth can occur in the winter months as a result of the dry air too. Keep your body well-hydrated […]
Keeping your mouth healthy for a lifetime
Oral health is important no matter what your age. Taking proper care of your teeth and gums can help keep the rest of your body healthy by maintaining the balance of good oral bacteria and keeping infections at bay. Following these tips coupled with regular dental visits will help keep your mouth healthy for a lifetime. Infants and Toddlers Baby teeth are important. They help children speak and chew properly and hold space for the permanent teeth growing below the gums.1 Read more. Prior to teeth erupting, wipe baby’s gums with a wet washcloth daily. Once the first baby tooth has erupted, begin brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice. Children should visit the dentist within six months of the first tooth or by age 1. To prevent “baby bottle” tooth decay, do not put a child to sleep with a bottle full […]
Oral Hygiene – it’s best to follow a routine
Back-to-school time brings routines and order to a more relaxed summer household. As you establish new routines for the day, don’t forget your or your child’s oral health! The importance of establishing an oral hygiene routine Work, school, activities, and family time are often part of busy lives. Some days, you may feel you have no time to spare, but your smile and your overall health depend on simple dental care habits, such as brushing and flossing.1 Developing a good oral health routine and sticking to it daily will prevent dental problems, such as tooth decay. In fact, cavities are one of the most prevalent diseases among children. But even adults benefit when they are mindful of their daily oral hygiene. Start a routine and stick to it – First thing in the morning and last thing at night works well for most. There are no hard and fast rules […]
A visit to the dentist could save your life
In 2019, it’s estimated that 53,000 people will get oral cancer and 10,860 people will die of these cancers in the United States.1 April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month – a time to focus on how to prevent cancer that can develop in the mouth and back of the throat. TruAssure encourages regular dental visits to help detect symptoms early. Any part of your mouth can be affected by oral cancer. The largest risk factors include: Tobacco – both smoking and smokeless tobacco products can cause cancers anywhere in the mouth or throat2 Alcohol – drinking and smoking together raises the risk of oral cancer even more than drinking or smoking alone3 Sun exposure – excessive and unprotected exposure to the sun is linked with cancer in the lip area4 Human papillomavirus (HPV) – it’s estimated that HPV causes 70 percent of oropharyngeal cancers, or cancers affecting the back of […]
