Periodontal (Gum) Disease Awareness Month
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a leading factor in tooth loss and is also associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. The main cause of periodontal disease is harmful bacteria found in the plaque that accumulates on teeth. The disease can range from a mild stage, known as gingivitis, to a more severe stage, known as periodontitis. Prevention, and in some cases reversal, of the disease is possible by maintaining good oral health habits and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. According to the American Dental Association, the following risk factors contribute to the development of periodontal disease, and the following warning signs may help identify the condition: Tobacco (smoking or smokeless) Systemic diseases like diabetes Medications like steroids, specific types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs and some calcium channel blockers Poor fitting bridges Crooked teeth Defective fillings Pregnancy or oral contraceptives […]
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month
Good oral health is important to everyone’s overall health and children’s oral health is no exception. Maintaining good oral health habits at an early age, along with regular dental visits, can help prepare a child for a lifetime of good oral health. Every year, February is designated as National Children’s Dental Health Month making it the perfect time to spread the word about how parents and caregivers can help maintain and improve children’s oral health. Despite the fact that tooth decay is preventable, it remains the most common chronic disease of children and teens from age 6 to 19. Establishing an oral health routine early is important. We’re sharing tips on how to make learning about oral health fun for the whole family. Use dental tools that appeal to them The next time you shop for dental supplies, like toothbrushes and toothpaste, let your child pick out a new toothpaste […]
