June 29, 2016

A Big Smile Goes a Long Way

EDGE READ TIME: 2 MIN.

If you've ever seen Julia Roberts and her megawatt smile, you know just how appealing a wide grin can be.� And there's more.� Studies show that�smiles make us more attractive, lower stress, elevate our mood and make us look younger!

So, it's important to�keep our teeth and gums in smile-ready shape.�

But, many of us don't. Bet you didn't know that nearly 50 percent of adults 30 years old or older have periodontal disease in the U.S., and that number spikes to 65 percent in adults 65 years old or older.�Yet, it's not a disease that's readily discussed, despite the fact it's 2.5 times more common than diabetes!�But there's good news.�Gum disease is preventable, or reversible, if you just�"love the gums you're with."

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) encourages all Americans to understand the�importance of periodontal health�through its "Love The Gums You're With" campaign.� The AAP hopes to educate us on the importance of good oral hygiene, and the need to�speak to a dental professional about periodontal health�because we all�love�the thought of a�sparkling smile�and fresh breath.

The AAP just launched a new tumblr page called the GUMBLR.� This engaging�site is filled with valuable information to�help you�find a local periodontist, learn more about gum disease and�take an�interactive quiz.

And�smile,�because�a good smile is priceless and the gums we have are ours for life!

Fast Facts From the AAP:

  • There are two types of periodontal disease:� gingivitis, the mildest form, and periodontitis, or advanced gum disease

  • Periodontists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, and receive three additional years of training after dental school

  • Symptoms of periodontal disease include red and swollen gums, receding gums, bleeding when flossing, loose teeth, mouth sores and persistent bad breath

  • Gums may separate from teeth, forming pockets that become infected with bacteria

  • Gum disease can lead to social anxiety and discomfort from loss of teeth and bad breath

  • Here's what helps according to AAP President, Dr. Wayne Aldredge:� "brushing twice a day, regular flossing, regular dental checkups and discussing gum health with a periodontist. If needed, there are non-surgical therapies or more advanced procedures based on the severity of the disease."

  • In 2015, an AAP survey showed that 27 percent of U.S. adults lie to their dentist about how often they floss their teeth, with 15 percent saying they'd rather wash dirty dishes than floss.

    For more information, visit www.perio.org/loveyourgums

    by EDGE

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