The second week of April is Dental Hygienist Week, making it a great time to put these individuals' vital work in the spotlight. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the country has around 214,000 dental hygienists, and they play an essential role in helping people with their oral health. This is an ideal time to remind people of the importance that it has in one's overall health and that making it a priority is easier than they may think.
“Our oral health is important to our overall health, so we have to prioritize it," explains Dr. Tyler Hales, a celebrity cosmetic dentist at Facer Hales Parker Dentistry in Ladera Ranch, California. "We all get busy, but if we can make simple things part of our routine, we will boost our oral and overall health."
People often overlook the importance of oral health and its role. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), among adults ages 20 and over, around 90% have had at least one cavity. Left untreated, cavities can cause pain and infections and may lead to abscesses under the gums, which can spread to other parts of the body and have serious, and in rare cases fatal, results.
The CDC also reports that gum disease, an inflammatory disease that affects the structures that support the tooth, is the leading cause of tooth loss. Their records show that nearly half of all adults over 30 show signs of gum disease. The case is solid for taking care of our teeth and starts having solid oral hygiene habits.
Here are some simple ways to make oral health a priority and take better care of our teeth:
Carry floss picks in the car. This way, flossing can be done before you become too tired at night. It will be a convenient way to get this vital step done.
Drink a lot of water, especially after eating. This will help to dilute the food and bacteria. This is especially helpful if you will not be brushing your teeth after eating.
Eat an apple, or make it the last thing you eat. An apple will help get something out of your teeth. Each bite of an apple helps to scrape plaque off the teeth. It helps prevent plaque build-up, and you can end your meal with something healthy.
Aim to brush your teeth twice daily, and opt for an electric toothbrush. Research shows that powered toothbrushes are more effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis than manual ones are.
Visit the dentist at least once per year for cleanings and exams.
"Even with a busy schedule, we can all incorporate some of these simple ways to boost our oral hygiene," adds Dr. Hales. "Once they become a habit, you won't have to think about it anymore. It's just a matter of focusing on it for a month to create the habit. You will be glad you did!"
April is also Oral Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the critical issue that reminds us to opt for screenings. According to the American Dental Association, early detection of oral cancer can decrease morbidity and increase long-term survival. According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, every hour throughout the year, someone dies of oral or oropharyngeal cancer (cancer of the back of the oral cavity and upper throat). Regular oral cancer examinations are available at the dentist's office and can help detect it in its early stages.
Facer Hales Parker Dentistry offers a free virtual smile consultation, where people can upload a smile photo (or photo of the area of concern) for world renown celebrity cosmetic dentist, Dr. Hales, to review. Once the picture is received, Dr. Hales will check it and create a personalized video with recommendations for the person. After reviewing the advice, the person can schedule an appointment for veneers. Learn more, schedule a free virtual consultation, and see how Dr. Hales gives back, including through the “Smiles for Life” program, at halesparker.com.
Providing a full range of dental services, Facer Hales Parker Dentistry offers teeth cleaning and whitening, implants, cosmetic dentistry, same-day crowns, fillings, root canals, laser dentistry, dentures, TMJ treatment, wisdom teeth removal, sedation dentistry, Invisalign, emergency dentistry, bridges, and more. Book your consultation with veneer specialist Dr. Hales today to get the smile you always wanted. View his work on celebrities on his Instagram page @drtylerhales to see real patient results, special offers, and more.
