“Kissing a person who smokes is like kissing an ashtray!” While this statement might be a hyperbole, it’s a sentiment many non-smokers share and it turns out, may be rooted in fact. More often than not, smokers tend to have poorer oral hygiene than their non-smoking counterparts. Smokers are usually more likely to require oral […]
Arizona Dental Mission of Mercy
Many low-income adults lack dental insurance coverage and even more have to delay any dental because of the costs and other more pressing basic needs. Originating in Virginia and spreading throughout the United States, more than 70 Mission of Mercy (MOM) programs have been held since 2000 to provide free dental services to local residents […]
Dental Plaque Bacteria May Lead to Blood Clot Formation
Researchers have found another reason to keep us brushing and flossing our teeth: the same bacteria that causes dental plaque can enter the bloodstream and trigger blood clots that increase risk of heart disease. Scientists at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland found that bleeding gums provided streptococcus bacteria an escape route into the […]
Gingivitis: Nearly 100% Preventable
The earliest sign of gum disease is called gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can eventually lead to the loss of gum tissue, bone supporting the teeth and eventually the actual teeth. The good news is that it is easy to treat. Better yet, it’s nearly 100% preventable. Gingivitis is usually caused by allowing plaque to […]
The Top 3 Oral Health Risks for Older Adults
For many seniors, oral health can become an issue when arthritis or other mobility problems leave them unable to clean their teeth and mouths as effectively as they once did. Here are three of the most common problems and how to help the seniors in your life avoid them: Cavities – Though you may associate […]