Over 80% of U.S. adults suffer from some degree of gum disease, making it one of the most common diseases in America. Yet, most of us don’t know much about gum disease. Even worse, what we think we know may not be completely true. Here are some useful (and actual) facts about this often ignored part of our body.
Gum disease is so common that it could accurately be described as an epidemic — as many as 85% of U.S. adults have some form of the disease. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize they have the condition, and those who do often brush it off as not a big deal.
Conversely, Alzheimer’s affects roughly 5 million Americans, with that number projected to reach 16 million by 2050, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. It’s also the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S., causing more than breast and prostate cancer combined.[1] Rightfully so, it is a leading concern to many, especially those who are older or who are caring for older relatives.
You may ask why these two conditions are being brought up in the same conversation. According to new research, having advanced gum disease may increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.[2][3] READ MORE
Ghosts, goblins, ghouls and gum disease — all things you should be on the look out for this Halloween.
Your kids are most likely thrilled to hit the town this Halloween in their best costume and gather up as many sweets as possible. We also know you’re probably a little excited too — don’t worry, we won’t mention those treats you snagged from your kids’ bags when they weren’t looking.
While Halloween candy is often referenced as something that wreaks havoc on teeth, do you know the types in particular that are especially bad for your oral health? Check out the list below and make sure to keep an eye out for them in your trick or treaters’ bags.
We’ve all been there before. You’re in the midst of a fun party — the music sounds great, the conversation is flowing, and you’re having a fantastic time. Then, out of the corner of your eye, you see it. Wait, did Paul just double dip in the salsa?
Once your mild disgust passes, you continue on with the party — carefully avoiding the bowls Paul eats out of. But did you know that double dipping could actually have a profound effect on the rest of your body? You read right: double dipping can be bad for your overall health.
The debate about the merits of flossing all started last August with The New York Times. The prestigious paper ran a story that implied that it might not be necessary to floss to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bone loss. The dental community responded with a unified and resounding, “Yes, it is.”
The NY Times article referred to the latest dietary guidelines published by the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services that excluded flossing in their recommendations. The Associated Press reported that the government agency dropped flossing because officials had never researched whether flossing truly helped in upholding dental health.
Don’t forget: Father’s Day is this Sunday! Have you already gotten your gift, or are you one of us who’s scrambling to think of a last minute present for dad? Whether or not you have that perfect jacket or set of golf clubs picked out, there’s something else you can do to show dad you care: ensure he’s taking care of his dental health. With June also being Men’s Health Month, now is the perfect time to get dad (grandpa, brother, etc.) thinking about men’s overall health.
As men age, monitoring their health becomes even more important. With illnesses like heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and dementia looming, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Did we mention erectile dysfunction? Yeah, there’s some scary ones to watch out for.
With summer in full swing, barbecue season is upon us. While there are many reasons to watch what you eat at the barbecue (hello, heartburn), it’s also important to take your teeth and gums into consideration, especially if you know you already have gingivitis or a more severe form of gum disease. Below are a handful of foods that will either help or hinder your oral health. Be aware and happy eating!
Gum disease is a condition that as many as 85% of American adults suffer with, signifying an undeniable epidemic of the disease. And yet, many peoples’ reaction to learning they have gum disease is underwhelming.
What most don’t realize is the connection between gum disease and countless other serious conditions. Learning about the links between gum disease and these other “scarier” diseases, as well as the overall importance of oral health, is key to ensuring people change their lifestyle habits to improve their gums and general health.
Spring is just around the corner, and with it, spring cleaning. From decluttering a countertop to taking a hard look at organization, it’s time to celebrate the end of winter.
However, another important cleaning this spring is also likely due: your dental hygiene appointment. And it’s a crucial one not to miss, especially if you want to prevent gum disease.
You have probably heard all your life that you should get your teeth cleaned every six months. You have heard it because it’s true. Getting the tartar and plaque buildup removed from your teeth is essential to your oral health. Failure to take care of your hygiene appointment can lead to more serious conditions with your gums, conditions that can affect your overall health.
Before you scoff at the notion, consider this: Nearly half of the adults over age 30 in the U.S. have gum disease (47%) according to the CDC. Not only that, but gum disease also affects over 70% of adults over the age of 65.
February is an important month for your gums. Why? February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, Heart Health Month, Black History Month and National Children’s Dental Health Month. And guess what? They’re all related to your gums.
This February is the fifth anniversary of Gum Disease Awareness Month. Started by the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry (IALD), the mission was to raise awareness about the disease that affects 85% of U.S. adults.