At GHI, your health and well-being are our main concerns. That's why we send you important health tips and reminders by e-mail each month. This month we're bringing you information on the benefits of dental care for your teeth, gums and general health.

Extra Resource

American Dental Association

If you think dental health affects just your mouth, read on! Studies show that dental health is linked to overall health. Recent research says that ongoing gum inflammation, which nearly 75 percent of Americans have some form of, is associated with an increased risk for heart disease and many other serious conditions.

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For these reasons and more, it's important to follow a healthy dental care regimen all your life. And if you do have gum disease, talk to your doctor or consult your dentist about whether you need to take steps to avoid a higher risk for heart disease, stroke, complications from pregnancy or other problems.

A complete dental care plan includes:

Good Oral Hygiene
For clean teeth and gums, the American Dental Association (ADA) suggests:

• Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Brushing removes plaque, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. For children, the ADA recommends brushing with a little water when the first tooth shows, and regular brushing with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste starting at age 2. By age 6 or 7, most children are ready to brush on their own.
• Flossing daily. Flossing picks up the leftover plaque and food particles your toothbrush can't reach. Once children have two teeth that are touching, according to the ADA, parents should begin flossing their children's teeth.
• Using a fluoride mouthrinse. This may help you avoid or reduce tooth decay more than using fluoride toothpaste alone. As stated by the ADA, children ages 6 and younger should not use mouthrinse, to avoid swallowing it.

Regular Dental Visits
See your dentist every six months for a checkup and a professional cleaning. At your visit, talk about the types of dental care and oral hygiene products that are right for you. The ADA says that children should have their first dental exam when the first tooth appears, and no later than their first birthday. To find a GHI network dentist near you, click here.

Toothbrush Care
Replace your toothbrush every few months and throw out worn toothbrushes. The ADA says to choose soft bristle toothbrushes, which are gentler on the gums and teeth.

Balanced Diet
A balanced diet can help with good oral hygiene. Sugars in many foods eat away at enamel, or the hard surface of teeth. Even foods that are part of a healthful diet -- fruits, vegetables, milk and bread -- contain sugar. So brush and floss no matter what you eat.

Learn about or enroll in one of GHI's dental plans.

If you take good care of them, your teeth can last a lifetime. Treat them well and they'll treat you better!