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5 Compelling Reasons Why Dental Hygiene Matters

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5 Compelling Reasons Why Dental Hygiene Matters

Many of us know that a healthy smile is essential for physical appearance, but did you realize it’s also crucial to our overall health?

Researchers have found that bacteria and germs from the mouth enter the bloodstream and affect other body parts. Poor oral hygiene can cause or exacerbate heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Prevents Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as caries, happens when the sugar wears down the hard outer layer of a tooth (enamel). The bacteria that cause decay feed on sugar; over time, they eat away at the enamel. This leads to holes in the teeth called cavities.

Good oral hygiene habits can help prevent tooth decay. Daily brushing and flossing removes food and bacteria. Using interdental cleaners like Reach Stim-U-Dent or an Oral-B Interdental Brush helps remove food debris between the teeth. Rinsing with fluoride mouthwash helps strengthen and remineralize the tooth surface. And regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and examinations can keep plaque in check.

Other ways to reduce your risk of tooth decay include limiting sugary foods and drinks, eating nutritious meals, and drinking plenty of water. Researchers are also working on various new means to help prevent tooth decay, such as materials that bind to the teeth and release fluoride over time to stop cavities in their tracks and toothpaste and rinses that can reverse or “heal” early cavities.

Prevents Gum Disease

Gum disease starts as plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If not removed, it mixes with minerals to become tartar, which only a dental hygienist can remove during regular teeth cleaning. Gum disease progresses if not managed, leading to tooth loss, gum recession, and swollen or bleeding gums.

Fortunately, it’s possible to prevent gum disease through good oral hygiene, regular brushing and flossing, and six-month checkups and cleanings. Drinking water can also help; it keeps you hydrated and stimulates saliva production to fight bacteria.

Oral health is closely linked to whole-body wellness. Studies have shown that gum disease can increase your risk for diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other serious health problems. Your dentist may even be the first person to detect these issues, which is why it’s so important to visit your dentist regularly or check their website to learn more.

Prevents Bad Breath

An overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria causes bad breath (halitosis). A twice-daily routine of brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash can prevent this buildup.

Food particles trapped between teeth and on the gums can also cause bad breath. Spicy foods like garlic, onions and tuna fish can also contribute to foul odors.

Drinking enough water is another way to help prevent bad breath. Saliva works around the clock to wash away food and bacteria in your mouth, but a dry mouth can affect this process. Chewing gum or sucking on sugarless candies can stimulate saliva, and your dentist may recommend an artificial saliva product or oral medication if you suffer from chronic dry mouth. Keeping a log of the foods you eat and medications you take can help your dentist pinpoint any potential causes of your bad breath.

Prevents Oral Cancer

While poor oral health is often associated with tooth decay, gingivitis, foul odor and gum disease, the reality is that it can also cause serious conditions throughout the body. This is because bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, causing infection.

For example, chronic inflammation caused by bacteria can lead to endocarditis, which is a life-threatening condition that affects the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves. The good news is that brushing, flossing and having professional cleanings can drastically reduce your risk of endocarditis by preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria.

Moreover, dental hygiene is important for cancer patients because it can decrease the severity of complications like mouth sores and pain due to chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Prevents Heart Disease

As the human body is a system of interconnected parts, your oral health can impact other areas of your health. Studies have shown that germs and inflammation in your mouth can travel through the bloodstream and affect other body parts.

This is why brushing at least twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting your local dentist for dental exams and cleanings every six months are so important. These dental hygiene practices control bacteria in your mouth and prevent many secondary health concerns.

If you aren’t brushing your teeth correctly or have gum disease, you may be at a higher risk for heart disease. This is because bacteria from the mouth can travel through the bloodstream and cause an infection in your lungs that leads to pneumonia and bronchitis.

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Oridzin – What is it and its Health Benefits

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Oridzin - What is it and its Health Benefits

In the realm of natural compounds with remarkable health benefits, oridzin, a flavonoid found in apples and other fruits, is gradually gaining recognition for its potential to promote well-being. This compound, known for its antioxidant properties and other therapeutic qualities, deserves a closer look. In this article, we will explore what oridzin is and delve into the numerous health benefits it offers.

What Is Oridzin?

Oridzin, also spelled as “phloridzin,” is a natural phenolic compound belonging to the flavonoid family. It is commonly found in apples, particularly in apple peels, but can also be found in pears and a few other fruits. Oridzin is primarily concentrated in the skin of these fruits, making it one of the reasons why consuming fruits with their skin intact can be so beneficial.

Health Benefits of Oridzin

  1. Antioxidant Properties:

Oridzin is a potent antioxidant, which means it helps combat oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals (highly reactive molecules) and the body’s ability to neutralize them. Oridzin’s antioxidant properties play a crucial role in reducing this oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.

  1. Cardiovascular Health:

Consuming oridzin-rich foods like apples has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. Oridzin is known to enhance blood vessel health and reduce inflammation, thereby promoting good heart health. It may also help in regulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

  1. Bone Health:

Oridzin has been studied for its potential role in promoting bone health. Some research suggests that it may help enhance bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. This is particularly important for postmenopausal women who are more susceptible to bone density loss.

  1. Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

Inflammation is a common factor in many chronic diseases. Oridzin’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the body, which, in turn, may lower the risk of chronic conditions like arthritis and certain types of cancer.

  1. Blood Sugar Regulation:

Oridzin is also being explored for its potential to regulate blood sugar levels. Some studies suggest that it may improve insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

  1. Neuroprotective Effects:

Emerging research indicates that oridzin may have neuroprotective properties. It could potentially help protect nerve cells from damage, which might have implications in the prevention or management of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

  1. Weight Management:

Oridzin may play a role in weight management by helping to reduce food intake and body weight. It may influence appetite-regulating hormones, which can contribute to a healthy weight.

How to Incorporate Oridzin into Your Diet

Including oridzin in your diet can be as simple as enjoying a variety of fruits, especially apples and pears, with their skin intact. However, to maximize its intake, you can also consider apple-based products like apple juice, apple cider, or apple sauce. Keep in mind that while oridzin offers numerous health benefits, a balanced diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables is essential for overall well-being.

Conclusion

Oridzin, a natural flavonoid found in apples and other fruits, is a promising compound with an array of health benefits. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and bone health benefits make it a valuable addition to your diet. While oridzin is not a magic bullet, incorporating more fruits rich in oridzin can contribute to a healthier and happier life. So, the next time you enjoy a crisp apple, savor not only its delightful taste but also the potential health benefits that oridzin brings to your table.

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Things to Consider Before You Get a Tummy Tuck

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Things to Consider Before You Get a Tummy Tuck

Getting rid of excess body fat on the stomach can be extremely frustrating. Weight fluctuations, physical changes, and aging, in general, can cause excess skin to form on the stomach. Exercise and diet are not always successful for many people. The good news is that tummy tucks are a great option and an extremely successful way to get rid of stomach fat. However, having a tummy tuck performed by a certified plastic surgeon such as Joel Aronowitz MD is critical.

Things to Consider Prior to Getting a Tummy Tuck

As with any type of surgical procedure, you should always do your homework so you can understand the positive and negative impacts of the procedure.

Here are several things you should consider prior to receiving a tummy tuck.

Serious Downtime

Tummy tucks are considered extreme surgical procedures. It will take many weeks to fully heal following the surgery. During a tummy, your surgeon will make an incision that goes from one hip to the other hip. You can expect downtime to last up to three weeks. Immediately following the procedure, you can expect to feel sore and swollen. It is typical to experience moderate pain for a few days following the surgery, with gradual improvement. You should give yourself the time you need to fully rest and heal.

Permanent Scarring

While tummy tucks are extremely effective at getting rid of excess fat in the stomach area, you will be left with a permanent, horizontal scar across your abdomen. Over time, you can expect your scar to begin fading, but it will still remain visible to the naked eye for several years. The good news is that you can easily conceal your scar under clothing, swimsuit bottoms, and underwear.

Can Take a Year to Fully Heal

You will not experience immediate results following a tummy tuck. You will notice redness, bruising, swelling, and stiffness over the first few weeks. Gradual improvement is to be expected within four to six weeks following your surgery. It is then that you can expect to see results. But, some swelling can still linger for six months or more. It is also typical to experience a loss of sensation of numbness around the incision. This, too, will also gradually resolve. It can take several months to begin feeling like your old self, but up to a year before the entire healing process has been completed.

Surgical Drains

Your surgeon will put drains in place after surgery to prevent the accumulation of fluids or blood. These drains also keep swelling to a minimum and promote adequate healing. These surgical drains are only temporary, but you will need to care for them properly. Your surgeon will speak to you about how to properly care for these drains. Fortunately, they will be removed anywhere between seven and ten days but may remain for a couple of weeks, if the surgeon feels it is necessary.

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The Risks of Hiring Healthcare Employees Without Proper Background Checks

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The Risks of Hiring Healthcare Employees Without Proper Background Checks

Hiring healthcare employees without conducting proper background checks, could face serious legal issues and harm patients. These risks can lead to medical malpractice claims and settlements that can cost your company a lot of money.

Conducting a thorough background check on every prospective employee before hiring them for your medical facility or practice is important. This will help you to avoid legal liability and build trust with your patients.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice is a legal term that refers to any act or omission by a doctor, nurse, physical therapist, pharmacist, or another healthcare professional that deviates from the profession’s standards and causes injury to a patient. Patients who believe a medical professional has harmed them can file a lawsuit to seek compensation for their damages.

In most instances, a claim for medical malpractice is filed by an injured patient or their family member in a state trial court that has jurisdiction over the case. Sometimes, a malpractice suit may be moved to a federal court.

Companies that provide background check solutions, like Sterling Check, can confirm a prospective employee’s credentials, education, and employment history. Verifying a candidate’s credentials, including their employment authorization in your state and their level of education, will help you decide whether they are qualified for the position. A background investigation can show whether a former company has ever disciplined a potential employee.

Patient Abuse

When hiring healthcare employees, it’s important to remember that they may interact with patients. New hires could risk patient safety and security if they’re not properly screened for criminal history and other risks, whether in an office, on the floor, or in a hospital.

Hiring someone who’s convicted of crimes can put your practice in danger from lawsuits, and it can also harm your brand. For instance, an employee convicted of identity theft or credit card theft can steal sensitive information and harm your business.

Additionally, a background check will help you identify applicants with criminal backgrounds that might prevent them from receiving federal funds through Medicare or Medicaid. This search will also reveal if an applicant has been excluded from participating in government-funded programs like social security and disability.

In addition, a thorough background check will help you avoid candidates who have been fired from previous jobs because of negligence or severe mistakes. This can help you reduce the number of potential liability issues that could arise and build trust with your patients.

Nurses and other healthcare professionals can also protect their clients from abuse by establishing a system of checks and balances, providing proper training on patient care and handling, clearly communicating their responsibility to patients, instructing staff members on procedures to follow up on abuse accusations and creating a patient-centered environment in institutional settings.

Negligent Hiring

Hiring employees who are unfit for their job may cause a business to face negligence claims. In these cases, the company is liable for the damage caused by the employee’s actions, such as injury to employees or customers.

The risk of negligent hiring can be avoided by following a few simple practices that can help your business prevent negligent hiring and protect you in case you are subject to such a lawsuit. You can do this by thoroughly researching all your candidates before placing them with your organization.

For example, healthcare organizations should never hire an applicant who is a repeat offender. A background check can quickly show this, and the healthcare provider should immediately refuse the applicant’s employment.

In addition, healthcare organizations should ask applicants to provide employment verifications. This will reveal the dates, locations, and details of the applicant’s past job. It can also help you avoid a negligent hiring claim by identifying potential issues with the applicant’s history.

These screening tools are the best way to prevent negligent hiring and ensure you are not subject to negligence claims. By utilizing detailed criminal history searches, sex offender registry checks, resume verifications, and other background investigations, you can ensure that all your applicants are thoroughly screened and qualified for their job.

Fraud

As with all industries, the healthcare sector is subject to constant changes and evolving standards. This means that a healthcare organization’s hiring practices must always reflect the current law and regulations. A professional background screening service can help you meet the requirements.

A healthcare employer can use criminal history reports and reference checks to determine if an applicant has a history of dishonesty or poor previous performance. This will prevent future legal issues and build trust with patients.

It is critical to conduct background checks on all new hires, including full-time staff, part-time and hourly employees, volunteers, interns, fellows, and temporary or visiting nurses. If an employee has access to patients, medications, or sensitive information, their failure to perform a thorough background check may place your organization in legal jeopardy.

A healthcare facility can save time and money by relying on a reputable background screening provider. In addition to obtaining criminal history reports, a good screening provider can verify the employment and education of applicants, as well as their professional licenses and credentials. They can even perform a federal exclusion search to identify individuals barred from working in the healthcare industry.

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