A smile can last a lifetime — if you pay attention. For that reason, it is important for parents to inculcate good oral health habits in their children ahead of time.
According to United States Chief Surgeon Richard H. Cardona, “National Oral Call for Improvement of Oral Health”, children lose more than 51 million school hours and adults lose more than 164 million working hours each year due to dental or dental visits. The national dental bill for dental services was estimated at more than $70.09 billion in 2002.
"Oral health disease is affecting communities across the country," explains Dr. Marsha Butler, Vice President of Colgate-Palmolive, Global Oral Health and Professional Relations. "For children between the ages of 5 and 16. Tooth decay is more common than asthma, more common than hay fever, and poses a serious threat to the health and well-being of our children."
Most people are aware that brushing their teeth twice a day is one of the most important practices for removing plaque and bacteria and keeping teeth clean. However, brushing may only be effective if people use the correct technique.
People should brush using small circular motions, taking care to brush the front, back, and top of every tooth. This process takes between 2 and 3 minutes. People should avoid sawing back-and-forth motions.
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage tooth enamel and the gums. The effects of this may include tooth sensitivity, permanent damage to the protective enamel on the teeth, and gum erosion.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommend using a toothbrush that has soft bristles. They also state that people should change their toothbrush every 3 months or when the ends start to look frayed, whichever comes first.
Smoking harms the body’s immune system, which makes it difficult for the body to heal tissues, including those in the mouth.
Recently, during the celebration of National Dental Health Month, Colgate and Dr. Cardona presented “Seven Steps to American Surgeon's Strong Smile,” advanced tips, with support from Colgate-Palmolive, to help maintain teeth and gums. (strong and healthy):
1- Brush your teeth and gums with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, especially after breakfast and before bedtime.
2- Visit The Dentist after every 3 month.
3- Brush your teeth twice in a day (In morning and night).
4- Use fluoride rinse to get strong, healthy teeth and gums.
5- Limit the number of times you eat a light meal each day — and remember to exercise a healthy diet and get plenty of calcium.
6- Wear a mouth-guard when playing sports for your safety.
7- Ask your dentist about dental sealants if you have.
Through its Bright Smiles program, Bright Futures, Colgate has reached more than 55 million children through free dental testing. The company has more than half of its public commitments that reached 101 million children through these services in 2011. Bright Smiles, Bright Futures gives children the power to control their oral health and helps raise awareness of the importance of maintaining dental hygiene.
Practicing good dental care from infancy to adulthood can help a person keep their teeth and gums healthy. Brushing and flossing daily, not smoking, eating a healthful diet, and having regular dental checkups can help people avoid cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. It may also benefit their overall health.
You must be logged in to post a comment.