While Albuquerque is one of the fittest cities in the country, according to Men's Health magazine, and that can contribute to overall teeth health (since exercise boosts circulation to your gums), the state ranks no. 49 in dentists per capita (according to statehealthfacts.org) and no. 41 in dental visits*, which means many residents aren't taking regular care of their teeth. Dr. Smigel says regular dentist visits are important to remove tartar, which can only be done professionally. Albuquerque also has hard water, which can stain teeth, and a dry climate, which can contribute to gum disease by limiting saliva.
*According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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No. 13: Little Rock, Ark.
Arkansas as a whole doesn't seem to put healthy teeth on their priorities list. The state ranks no. 50 in dentists per capita and dental visits and no. 15 (with no. 1 being the worst) in natural teeth loss*. Proof that there are consequences when you ignore the dentist.
*According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
What makes for a beautiful smile? We asked Irwin Smigel, DDS., founder and president of the American Society for Dental Aesthetics (ASDA) and creator of Supersmile, for his criteria: Regular dentist visits, not smoking, minimizing your coffee, soda and red wine intake and brushing and flossing. Other factors, like having hard water or a dry climate, can also stain teeth or create a dry mouth (which can hurt gums). We looked at these factors and found 14 cities that fell short on what it takes to have a healthy, attractive smile. If your city is on the list, it might be time to make an appointment with your dentist.
