Be TRUE to your teeth before they become FALSE!

Did you know?^[2]

1. We may have 700 different types of bacteria in our mouths.

2. 1 in 4 adults aged 20 - 64 currently has cavities.

3. People who drink more soda, caffeine, and sugary drinks are at 62% more risk of dental caries.

4. Oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide.

Fun Facts^[1,3]

1. 61% of adults say they are attracted to a person's smile.

2. Teeth can't repair themselves, but your smile can stop a war. 

3. Women smile 68 times daily, whereas men smile eight times daily.

4. Dentist William Morrison co-invented the cotton candy machine.

Why does Oral health = overall health?^[2,3]

Besides dental cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, poor dental care may cause various systemic diseases, including cancers.

Conditions linked to poor oral health

1. Endocarditis: Bacterias from tooth plaque causing gingivitis (gum disease) may inflame heart chambers & valves through the bloodstream.

2. Cardiovascular diseases: People with gum disease are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

3. Pneumonia- The bacteria may enter & infect the lungs causing respiratory tract infections.

4. Cancers: Poor dental care is a prominent cause of various types of mouth and upper respiratory tract cancers.

Brief Dental Care^[1,2,4]

1. Use of fluoride toothpaste & replace toothbrush every 3 to 4 months

2. Brush teeth twice a day for two minutes every time.

3. Use floss to remove dental plaque.

4. Limit sugary & alcoholic drinks.

5. Control blood sugar levels

6. Drink plenty of water frequently

6. Gargle after every food.

7. Visit your dentist once a year.

Keeping smiling with your healthy teeth takes little effort!

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