IT’S ALL CONNECTED
Maintaining a healthy mouth is probably one of the most important contributors to looking good, feeling better and living longer. Unhealthy teeth and gums have a direct effect on virtually every other part of your body. Any infections that develop in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause or complicate more serious conditions like diabetes, cancer, strokes and heart attacks, pneumonia and arthritis.
Here are three key dental actions you can take to prolong a healthy life:
- Choose healthy foods & drinks: Such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, milk, cheese, and choose unsweetened beverages like water.
- Start a daily dental routine: Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day and floss at least once a day, (Supervise and assist children less than 7 years old).
- Visit a dentist at least 2 times a year: Having regular check-ups and cleanings every six months, you’ll keep any problems in check and prevent more serious issues. (Your child’s first dental visit should take place after their first tooth appears).
Did You Know?
- Cavities are one of the most common chronic disease among children.
- About 20% of children aged 5 to 11 years have at least one untreated decayed tooth.
- Children aged 5 to 19 years from low-income families are twice as likely (25%) to have cavities, compared with children from higher-income households (11%).
- Nearly 60 to 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease that occurs when the gums become red and swollen from inflammation that may be aggravated by changing hormones during pregnancy.