September is National Oral Health Month – time to pay extra attention to your dental routine, particularly as two of the world’s most common health problems affect the mouth – cavities (dental caries) and gum disease.
Gum disease ranks second only to the common cold in terms of prevalence, with an estimated 90% of South Africans experiencing the problem at some point.
It really is in your best interest to practice good oral hygiene. Not only does it ensure a beautiful smile, but it is good for your health – gum disease has been linked to coronary heart disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes and diabetes. And new research also shows that women with gum disease find it harder to conceive.
3 Key messages on improving dental health
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. …
- Visit the dentist regularly, as often as they recommend. …
- Cut down on the frequency of sugary foods and drinks. …
Source: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/news/national-oral-health-month-pay-extra-attention-dental-health