Could the bacteria in your mouth give clues about high blood pressure (hypertension) risk? An interesting new study reported by the American Heart Association (AHA) revealed a potential link between oral bacteria and high blood pressure. These findings, although not a definitive cause and effect relationship, can help improve research and our knowledge regarding hypertension prevention.

This month, in addition to every month after, we want you to know how important it is to protect yourself from facial injury. Every April marks National Facial Protection Month, which is dedicated to spreading awareness on oral and facial injury prevention. With spring comes nicer weather and many opportunities to go outside and play during either recreational or organized sport events. Unfortunately, many doctors are faced with an influx of patients who have endured head, mouth, and facial injuries due to sports-related accidents. Sports safety equipment including helmets and mouth guards can go a long way in protecting you from serious harm.

Feeling spicy? Everyone likes to spice up their life every now and then, but doing so frequently with the consumption of spicy foods can take a toll on your teeth.

There are a few things you should know about spicy foods when consumed in overabundance:

In 1987, National Alcohol Awareness Month was created and continues to this day. Founded by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), this annual observance is dedicated to educating the public about the health risks of alcohol dependence. Greater than 90,000 individuals lives are taken each year as a result of alcohol abuse and dependence.  In addition, about 29 people die in vehicle accidents due to an alcohol-impaired driver, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other campaigns that highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse include D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) and Know Your Limits.