Scare Yourself into Better Oral Hygiene with These Frightening Dental Facts

The Halloween season is upon us once again, and that means it’s time for some spooky fun. While you’ll certainly want to crack open a classic horror novel or make some popcorn for a favorite horror movie, why not take a little time to learn some terrifying dental statistics to help you stay motivated for great oral hygiene? Here’s a brief list of frightening facts about oral health as well as a few tips for keeping your fangs in biting shape.

Nearly Half of Adults Have Gum Disease

Gum disease is sort of like a poltergeist. You might barely notice it at first, but, if you don’t get rid of it, it only becomes more aggressive until it starts causing serious damage. The first stage of gum disease is inflammation of the gums called gingivitis, and it can trigger symptoms like swollen red gums, bleeding after flossing, or even bad breath. Gingivitis is very common and can normally be reversed with improved oral hygiene, but it will eventually advance to periodontitis if left untreated, resulting in permanent damage such as gum recession, jawbone erosion, and tooth loss.

One in Four Seniors Has Lost All Their Teeth

The smile does a lot for a person’s activities and daily living as well as their quality of life, and the loss of all of one’s teeth can have serious consequences for one’s self-esteem as well as their oral and overall health. The teeth play crucial roles in eating and communication, and tooth loss can cause a person to develop speech difficulties or make it hard for them to enjoy the nutritious and diverse diet their body needs to remain strong and healthy. While one in four seniors have lost all their teeth, the issue can still affect patients of all ages and walks of life.

More People on Earth Own Smartphones Than Toothbrushes

The humble toothbrush plays a massive part in maintaining the dental health of billions, but the average person on Earth is more likely to own a smartphone than a toothbrush. While smartphones certainly can be useful, they cannot be used to clean teeth and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Untreated cavities are one of the most common health problems in the world, but they can be easily prevented with a proper oral care regimen that includes regular brushing.

How Can I Keep My Smile from Becoming Scary?

The best ways to keep your smile in great shape include practicing excellent oral hygiene, making smart eating decisions, and seeing your dentist regularly. By brushing, flossing, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash every day, you can keep your mouth clear of excessive bacteria and food debris that can cause infections. Limiting your sugar intake can deprive harmful germs of the fuel they need to cause gum disease and tooth decay, and regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and correct problems in their early stages.

About the Practice

Martinez Dentistry offers exemplary oral health services to the community of Indianapolis. Led by Drs. Corey Martinez and Bond Harman, the staff treats each patient with due courtesy and genuine compassion. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your next dental appointment or receive more tips for proper oral care, contact the office online or dial (317) 846-3431.