Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls may be a Halloween fright, but they’ve got nothing on these scary dental stats that will leave you teeth chattering. So, get ready to be seriously spooked, and find out how you can keep your own smile safe this scary season!
Gum Gripes
Did you know that the ADA estimates about 42 percent of people over 30 have some form of gum disease, and if that wasn’t scary enough that number gets bigger as the population ages? In fact, by the time they hit 65, a truly terrifying 70 percent of American adults will have an advanced stage of periodontal disease!
Tooth Loss Terror
Tooth loss is more common than you might think. In fact, an estimated 25 percent of seniors over the age of 65 in the US are missing all their permanent teeth, and this is more than just an aesthetic issue. Gaps in your arches can make it harder to speak clearly, smile confidently, and eat a nutritious diet. It can even cause permanent jawbone deterioration.
Insurance Ick
Dental insurance can help protect you and your family’s smiles by driving down the cost of routine and restorative oral health care, but that’s not the scary part. The truly terrifying truth is that approximately 45 million Americans don’t have any form of dental insurance coverage at all, leaving scores of smiles without protection.
Disastrous Decay
When your little one has a painful toothache, it can harm more than their smile. With a staggering 18 percent of all children aged five to 19 having at least one untreated cavity, tooth decay accounts for approximately 34 million hours of missed class time each school year, meaning that tooth decay can hurt both your teeth and your grades!
How to Safeguard Your Smile
While it may be fun to scare yourself on Halloween, it’s important to keep your smile safe and healthy all year long to prevent dangerous dental damage that can leave you looking like a jack-o-lantern. Here are some terrific tips for protecting your teeth:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, and floss daily.
- Visit your dentist every six months for your regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Visit your emergency dentist if you’re experiencing a toothache that lasts longer than 24 hours.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools, to open packaging, bite fingernails, or to chew on pen caps or other inedible objects.
- Don’t smoke, vape, or use tobacco products.
- Eat a nutritious diet that’s low in carbs and sugar.
- Wear an appropriate mouthguard or nightguard if you play sports or grind your teeth.
Remember, although it may be a lot of fun to scare yourself silly, protecting your teeth and gums from becoming one of these sinister stats is a year-round effort. Thus, to keep your smile looking and feeling its best, follow the tips above and you’ll have no need to be afraid!
About Our Practice
At Artistry Smile Center, Dr. Courtney and Dr. Cox don’t want you to be afraid to smile! That’s why we’re pleased to offer a variety of awesome oral health treatments, from preventive checkups and cleanings to cosmetic improvements and even emergency care. To keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong all year long, schedule your preventive exam today by visiting our website or calling 614-451-7393.