5 Frightening Dental Facts

You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your teeth or gums, but your mouth is a pretty interesting place. Your pearly whites are important for more than just a beautiful smile. If you aren’t careful, preventable dental problems can wreak havoc on your oral health. Here are 5 shocking facts about your dental health that you may not know.

1. 92% of Adults Have Experienced Cavities

Your teeth are protected by the hardest substance in your body. Your enamel is stronger than some metals, but it isn’t any match for cavity-causing bacteria. It can erode your enamel over time until a cavity forms. No amount of brushing will make a cavity go away. Once your enamel is lost, it’s gone for good. 

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day to remove food residue and plaque that can lead to decay.

2. 50% of Adults Have Gum Disease

Cavities aren’t the only dental concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that half of Adults Have a form of gum disease. The infection is caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup. It can lead to tooth loss and affect your overall wellness. 

Flossing is the best way to keep your gums healthy. Floss your teeth at least once a day to clean areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

3. 120 Million Adults are Missing Teeth

Every tooth is important for a healthy, functional smile. Losing even one can have detrimental consequences for your oral and general health. Accidents and injuries aren’t the only culprits of tooth loss. Cavities and gum disease are also responsible for missing teeth. Thankfully, both issues are preventable with good oral hygiene.

4. 54,000 People are Diagnosed with Oral Cancer Annually

You don’t have to smoke to be at risk of oral cancer. Unfortunately, many people aren’t diagnosed until it reaches advanced stages, which contributes to its high mortality rate. You can benefit from the power of early detection with an oral cancer screening at routine dental appointments.

5. Oral Health and General Wellness are Connected

Your oral and overall health are closely connected. Various dental issues can increase your risk of health conditions and vice versa. With your mouth the gateway to your body, healthy teeth and gums are essential for your general wellness.

Besides caring for your mouth at home, schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months. They’ll keep your teeth and gums healthy to ensure your beautiful smile lasts for a lifetime.

About Bear Creek Family Dentistry

Bear Creek Family Dentistry offers a team of highly experienced dentists to provide complete dental care for patients of all ages, including pediatrics, orthodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontics. Our dental team maintains the highest standard of care to support the mouth and body connection. Book an appointment online or call (972) 885-3736.