Michael G. Long DDS, supporting National Children's Dental Health Month

Last week, we blogged about the need to screen for gum and heart disease during the month of February, which is designated as "America's Heart Month." Well, February is also National Children’s Dental Health Month, and Dr. Michael Long is here to tell you about the need for preventative oral care in kids. For 60 Februaries, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic. In 1981, however, the program was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Each February, Dr. Long and thousands of dental professionals in the U.S. focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Dr. Long and our staff want you to remember developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited our office the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

February is Heart Month - Dr. Michael Long

February is Heart Month, a time to take good stock of the health of your heart. Cardiovascular disease remains American's No.1 killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, says the American Heart Association.

Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care. Visiting our office regularly can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages. And because people with dental insurance are more likely to visit a dentist, a healthy mouth begins with a visit to the office of Michael G. Long. In observance of Heart Month, Dr. Long says it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your treatment with Dr. Long, please give us a call today.

Toothbrush Trivia with Dr. Michael Long!

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Dr. Long wants to know: What do you love about Fresno?

The office of Michael G. Long, located in Fresno and serving surrounding communities, is situated around some pretty special neighborhoods here in Central Valley. Each is unique with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Long and our professional team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Fresno or California in general? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps you have a favorite California getaway? Do you love the pleasant weather we enjoy year-round?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Fresno, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.” And, who knows, Dr. Long and team just might post your response on our social networks! Enjoy the rest of your week!