CLEAN UP DAD'S DENTAL HABITS
-Delta Dental of New Jersey Encourages Men to Pay More Attention to Oral Health-
-Gum Disease is Connected to Vascular Problems-
PARSIPPANY, NJ (June 8, 2005) – Delta
Dental of New Jersey is encouraging men to pay
closer attention to their oral health this Father's
Day, and all year long. Recently, Columbia University
Medical Center researchers have found a connection
between gum disease and atherosclerosis - a narrowing
of blood vessels that can lead to stroke or heart
attack. This is alarming news for men who, according
to the American Dental Association, aren't as
attentive to their oral health as women.
Dr. Anna M. Chin, of Essex Dental in Caldwell,
New Jersey, mostly treats women on a regular
basis. "Men are more likely to schedule
an appointment when there is a problem, for example
a toothache," said Dr. Chin.
"Unfortunately, by that time the situation
has usually escalated." Men of all ages
are more likely than women to have periodontal
(gum) disease, including tender gums that bleed,
loose or separating teeth and persistent bad
breath, according to the Academy of General Dentistry.
"We want everyone to know that maintaining
oral health is important, but men seem to need
additional encouragement," said Dr. Scott
Navarro, dental director, Delta Dental of New
Jersey. "Missing regular dental checkups
can lead to more serious and expensive oral health
problems."
Encouraging dad to take care of his oral health
will do more than keep his teeth clean and his
gums healthy. Regular visits to the dentist help
to improve bad breath, can detect early stages
of oral cancer and even calm snoring habits.
Father's Day Gifts to Smile About
This Father's Day, give the gift of a bright,
healthy smile. Delta Dental of New Jersey suggests
these Father's Day-friendly gift ideas:
Electronic Toothbrush
Many dentists support the use of electric toothbrushes
because they can remove plaque more effectively
in hard-to-reach areas. Also, most electric
toothbrushes come with a built-in timer to
help keep you brushing for the recommended
time.
Water Pick
Tooth brushing alone won't fight gum disease
and gingivitis. Using a water pick is a great
way to maintain oral and gum health.
Oral-Care Travel Kit
To make sure dad is keeping up with his oral
hygiene on the road, consider a homemade oral-care
travel kit. The kit can include travel-sized
toothpaste, toothbrush and mouthwash, toothbrush
cover, sugar free gum and flavored dental floss.
About Delta Dental of
New Jersey, Inc.
Delta Dental of New Jersey, Inc., is New Jersey’s
and Connecticut's leading dental benefits carrier,
providing coverage to more than one million people
through contracts with employers in New Jersey
and Connecticut. The Delta Dental Plan system
offers seamless dental benefits administration
for employer groups throughout the country and
the largest network of credentialed dentists
in the nation. For more information visit us
on the Web at www.deltadentalnj.com.
