American Dental Association
Ian Puzdrowski brushes his teeth to keep them as white as possible, which is ideal in American culture. Photo by Austin Short

Oral health is important for employment and dating opportunities

By |

 

 

 

The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth two times a day. For most people their motivation to do so would probably sound something like this. “To prevent my cavities and to keep them looking white,” Vince Digiorgio said. While Digiorgio may have had the most simple reason to continue to brush your teeth, recently, a study conducted by the Sociology of Health and Illness journal titled Straight, white teeth as a social prerogative looked into some of the sociological reasons to continue to improve your oral health. The study found that having a healthier smile can make you more employable and dateable.

Education

Federal funds help expand dental care for children

By |

By BECKY McKENDRY
Capital News Service
LANSING – Smiles in Michigan will soon be a little brighter – and healthier – thanks to a recent federal grant. The Department of Community Health will use a $1.3 million grant to expand oral health programs in Mecosta and Genesee counties. The grant is from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. In Mecosta County, the funds will expand the SEAL! Michigan program that places hygiene students in elementary and middle schools to provide sealants and dental education.

Government

Plan would add rules for mobile dental care

By |

By MATTHEW HALL
Capital News Service
LANSING – A new bill would add more regulations for “mobile dental facilities” that bring dental services to disadvantaged children. The bill aims to provide better documentation of services and to prevent incompetent practitioners from harming patients, supporters say. “It isn’t meant to stop access because it’s a wonderful service, but to make sure bad apples don’t spoil it by having minimal standards of care,” said Rep. Peter MacGregor, R-Rockford, the lead sponsor. Organizations like Smiles on Wheels and Michigan Dental Outreach work sort of like blood drives, MacGregor said. They use vans to transport much of the equipment found in a dentist’s office to facilities like schools and senior centers.