Oral health is key to overall health
According to a report by the U.S. Surgeon General, poor oral health is a factor in life-threatening diseases that kill millions of Americans each year. For example, gum (periodontal) disease has been linked to heart and lung disease, diabetes, and several other serious health conditions.
October is National Dental Hygiene Month, so this is a good time to think about your oral health. If you’re like many Americans, you don’t take as good care of your teeth and gums as you should.
Consider these jaw-dropping statistics from the American Dental Hygienists Association:
-
50% of Americans do not receive regular oral health care.
-
75% of the U.S. population has some form of periodontal gum disease.
-
50% of all Americans aged 17 and under have had cavities in their permanent teeth.
-
Only about 55% of people who floss do so every day. Women floss more than men and people over age 50 floss more than younger people.
-
75% of patients don’t change their toothbrush as often as they should. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months and after illnesses, such as a cold or flu.