Fun and Interesting Dentistry Facts for Colorado Springs! PART 3

This three-part article series takes a fun yet sometimes serious look at somesuper interesting facts you probably didn’t know about your teeth and oralhealthcare.

# 7: Dentists among the most trusted professionals in America

According to the results of a recent survey, dentists, doctors and nurses are the most

trusted professionals in the United States. Who were the least trusted? Not

surprisingly, congressmen and lobbyists!

# 8: There are greater inconveniences than a dental appointment…

Time Magazine recently conducted a survey that came through with some pretty

interesting results. According to the survey, about 60% of Americans would rather

visit the dentist than sit next to someone blabbing away on their cell phone.

“This is quite a heartening statistic,” says one Colorado Spring dentist. “So many

people avoid coming in for dental treatment because they suffer from some kind of

associated phobia or anxiety. To hear that most people would rather visit the dentist

than sit next to someone talking on their cellphone – which, let’s be honest, is a

daily occurrence on public transport – is a positive change from the norm. Perhaps

we can start expecting to see more and more people coming in for the routine

preventative dental healthcare that’s so necessary for great long-term oral health.”

# 9: 75% of Colorado Springs residents suffer from gum disease

Surely not! Yet, according to the Centre for Disease Control, it’s true. The vast

majority of, not just Colorado Springs, the American population is in such poor

dental health that they have developed some form or stage of gum disease.

“Gum disease is characterized by an advanced bacterial infection of the gums and soft tissues in the mouth,”

explains a Colorado Springs dental implant surgeon. “In severe gases, the disease affects the jawbone underlying

the gums and can actually deteriorate this hard tissue, as well as the ligaments holding the teeth in place. This is

why untreated gum disease is often associated with tooth loss.”

With 75% of the population suffering from gum disease – whether it’s mild gingivitis or severe periodontitis – it’s no surprise

that this disease is the predominant cause of tooth loss in patients older than 35.

“The good news is that gum disease is wholly preventable,” says the dental implant dentist. “All you have to do is brush and

floss every day and see your dentist for check-ups twice per year. This alone could help you keep your smile in beautiful

condition for life.”

# 10: Is your toothbrush kept at a hygienic

distance from the toilet?

This may come as a shock to you, but if your keep

your toothbrush within six feet of a toilet it could

get covered with what’s known as a “biofilm” of

nasty bacteria.

“Every time a toilet flushes, it sends up a fine

spray of water, bacteria and unmentionable

particles, which settle on all the bathroom surfaces

within a radius of about six feet,” says a Colorado

Springs dentist. “If your toothbrush is on the sink

next to the toilet, you’re at risk of getting sick from

this biofilm. Rather keep your toothbrush in an

aired cupboard, or if you’re a fan of those protective

caps, make sure the ones you buy have small holes

in them so that your toothbrush can dry between

uses.”