You know those grim statistics you see on the evening news that make you shudder? Imagine if you were actually part of those disturbing figures… There are some stats about oral health in America that will make you do a double take because they are so troubling. If there is any good news, it’s that you have every opportunity to ensure you and your family members do not end up struggling with your smiles to become another statistic. Keep reading to learn from your dentist in Bettendorf about some of the struggles people are going through with their teeth and gums and how to avoid joining them.
Fearsome Figures on the Dental Health of Americans
- 25% of adults have lost all their teeth
- 26% of adults have untreated cavities
- Over 47% of adults have some form of periodontal disease
- Only 65% of adults have visited their dentist in the past year
- 13% of children have untreated cavities
- Over 17% of children haven’t visited their dentist in the past year
- About 45 million adults don’t have dental insurance coverage
- Cost is the main reason adults with oral health issues don’t go to the dentist
How Do I Prevent Problems with My Teeth and Gums?
It’s a no-brainer that you don’t want to face any of the oral health struggles mentioned in the previous section, right? And if you already are, at least by reading this blog post it shows that you care enough to try to make a positive change. Here are some preventive measures you can take for your oral health:
- Brush your teeth at least twice each day and especially in the morning and at night.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-rich toothpaste.
- Don’t brush for longer than two minutes in a session or apply too much pressure.
- Rinse with mouthwash daily. Also, rinse your mouth with water after each meal.
- Floss daily, whether you want to do it before or after brushing.
- Try to eat a balanced diet. Important nutrients for teeth include magnesium, vitamin D, phosphorous, fluoride, and calcium.
- Avoid dark or sticky foods. Some items to avoid or at least minimize include toffee, red sauces, pastries, dried fruits, and cakes. They promote bacteria growth and/or stain teeth.
- Eating meat is good for your teeth due to its magnesium and phosphorous content. If you don’t eat meat, seek supplements for these nutrients.
- Steer clear of drinking soda. The acid is harmful to your enamel, plus dark colas can stain teeth.
- Don’t smoke since it can lead to halitosis and stain your teeth.
There’s one more tip, and it’s an essential one – make sure to visit your dentist twice each year for a cleaning and exam. They can help ensure that you and your family remain healthy now and in the future as shining oral health examples.
About the Author
Dr. Joshua Pogue proudly serves patients in the Bettendorf area by offering compassionate, comfortable treatment with help from a dedicated staff and the latest in modern dental technology. He received his dental doctorate at Southern Illinois University and is a member of the American Dental Association. Dr. Pogue will be happy to further discuss oral health and provide valuable tips during your next checkup and cleaning which you can schedule on his website or call (563) 332-7734.