Healthy teeth affect nearly every aspect of our lives, even our professional image. However, according to a survey released by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and Oral-B Laboratories, many Americans are neglecting to take care of their smile during the workday. More than 1,000 full-time employed adults ages 18 and older were asked about oral care habits and the importance of a healthy smile at the workplace.
The survey found that more than three-quarters of respondents are eating twice or more a day at the workplace, while only 14 percent of respondents are brushing every day at work. Yet, while many respondents indicated that they are overlooking oral care at the office, the majority of respondents (40 percent) ranked smiling as the first thing they noticed about a person at work.
An overwhelming majority, 96 percent, thought that a smile was very or somewhat important to a person’s appearance. Furthermore, 32 percent cited bad breath as the least attractive trait of their co-workers.
Snacks and sugary beverages on the job can increase the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease, that’s why it’s important to brush your teeth during the workday, in addition to after breakfast and before bedtime.
The sugars and starches in the food we eat fuel bacterial plaque, resulting in an “acid attack” on tooth enamel. While visible evidence of food may disappear, plaque bacteria continue to grow. Eventually, plaque can build up and harden into tartar. That can lead to gum irritation, gum disease, tooth detachment and ultimately, tooth loss.
The survey also revealed that leaving an extra toothbrush at the office, rather than carrying one with you, increases your likelihood of brushing at work by 65 percent.
For a spare toothbrush, or to discuss any oral health topic, please call A Unique Dental Experience at 661-254-4000 for a complimentary consult or log on to www.drdell.com and ask Dr. Dell.