Friday, April 25, 2014

Friday Dental Download: April 25, 2014


This week we are reminded of the importance of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, talk about dental insurance under the Affordable Care Act, and see a kid who is lucky enough to have the Batman logo in his mouth. Join the conversation on Twitter using #FridayDentalDL.

The Affordable Care Act declared pediatric dental insurance an essential health benefit, stating that all children under the age of 18 must be covered to combat the increasein tooth decay in American children. However, adult dental insurance was left out of the law even though more than half of US adults suffer from periodontal disease. To learn more about how to get dental coverage in your state, visit dentaquest.com.

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and this article reminds both dental professionals and patients that it’s vital to be screened for oral cancers at your biannual dental checkup. It is estimated that 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year alone. Know the symptoms of oral cancer and if you notice anything out of the ordinary in your teeth, gums, tongue or throat, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.

A new study found that children born towomen with low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy are more likely to develop cavities than those born to women with adequate levels of vitamin D. The flesh of fatty fish and fish liver oils are among the best sources of vitamin D. For more information on oral health during pregnancy, check out our Oral Health Library.

We cracked up at this tweet by a man whose friend texted him a photo of his son whose front gap resembles the batman logo. Take a look and decide for yourself!