What you can do to protect yourself
As part of a major effort to promote good oral health care, Waterpik® wants Americans to understand how they can prevent debris and bacteria from collecting in their mouths. Studies have shown that the lack of saliva (dry mouth) commonly found in those who strenuously exercise (fitness fanatics, athletes) and those who even take a number of medications (allergies, colds, weight loss) could be creating a breeding ground for many dental health problems.
Jay McCulloch, Vice President Global Marketing, Waterpik® Oral Health Products, “We first heard this following the 2012 Summer Olympics. The British Journal of Sports Medicine reported in 2013 that 75 percent of the Olympian athletes had gum disease. This was very surprising considering one would associate elite athletes with good oral health care. An article in the New York Times recently quoted experts from University Hospital Heidelberg who said that poor oral health had to do with a reduction in saliva after exercising, leading to cases of Dry Mouth. Saliva has high levels of oxygen, which helps to keep the bad anaerobic bacteria at bay; thus, Dry Mouth provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria that is associated with bad breath, gum disease and tooth decay. Saliva is also a natural cleanser that helps wash unwanted debris and bacteria away.”
McCulloch said it is obvious that an athlete is not going to stop working out and playing sports. “However, what they should do is improve their dental hygiene regimen to remove the debris and bacteria lurking deep between teeth and below the gumline that is really causing the problems. The Waterpik® Water Flosser is the ideal tool for this job.”
McCulloch also added that the Waterpik® Water Flosser has precisely controlled pressure and pulsation settings that are clinically proven to remove plaque bacteria and improve gum health. It also features a new pulse-modulation technology that provides enhanced gum stimulation. The Water Flosser’s action of stimulating and massaging the gums may stimulate saliva production and alleviate dry mouth in addition to removing the bad bacteria. “We are constantly updating our technology to meet the demands of active lifestyles.”
