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  Members & Employees
Care for Your Health  
Get Your
FREE
 
Wellness Health Screenings 
at the AMO Plans Medical Clinic 
Call Ext.7305
or
Stop by the clinic for your 
2018 Health Screenings!

 

Sailing Members:
As with all AMO Plans Health & Wellness Initiatives, any health information obtained is private and not shared with any required merchant mariner physical exam process. This information is strictly for your betterment and may be shared with your physician at your discretion
.
 
 Chef Shannon's Cooking Classes 
A Special Invitation for
Members & Guests


While Staying on Campus Please Make Sure to Attend One of Chef Shannon's Cooking Classes!
AMO PLANS LIVING WELL

 
 A Healthy Smile 
 is a Healthy You!

Oral health touches every aspect of our lives but is often taken for granted. Your mouth is a window into the health of your body.
Regular dentist visits can do more than keep your smile attractive, they can also tell your dentist a lot about your overall health, including whether or not you may be at risk for chronic disease. Here are some things to consider to ensure you and your family have good oral health. 
 
Regular Dental Check Ups
Some 100 million Americans fail to see a dentist each year, even though regular dental examinations and good oral hygiene can prevent most dental disease. Many people believe that they need to see a dentist only if they are in pain or think something is wrong, but regular dental visits can contribute to a lifetime of good oral health. Make an appointment with your dental provider today!

Self Examinations 
Become familiar with the appearance of your own mouth and teeth through frequent examination. This way, you will be able to catch any changes at an early stage and have these changes examined by a dentist. Examine your teeth for any signs of chipping or cracking, discoloration, and looseness. If you experience a change in your bite or develop pain, call your dentist as soon as possible. An oral exam is particularly important to conduct if you are a tobacco user, since you are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer.

Brushing Properly 
Your teeth are not the only thing in your mouth that needs to be cared for; your gums, your tongue and the roof of your mouth need cleaning too. When brushing, place the bristles of the 
toothbrush at a 45-degree angle near the gum line, so that the bristles are in contact with both the teeth and the gum. Brush using a back and forth, up and down movement. Don't forget to brush the surfaces of your tongue and roof of your mouth.
This will help to get rid of bacteria that causes bad breath.
Make a habit of brushing at least twice a day preferably in the
morning and in the evening. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing for a duration of two minutes which is associated with a bigger reduction in plaque.
 
Use Fluoride 
Children and adults benefit from fluoride use. Fluoride strengthens developing teeth in children and prevents tooth decay in both children and adults.Toothpastes and mouth rinses contain fluoride. Fluoride levels in tap water may not be high enough without supplementation to prevent tooth decay. Contact your water utility company to determine the level for your area and talk with your dentist about your fluoride needs. 
 
Floss Regularly 
As beneficial as brushing regularly is, it is not holistic in its responsibility to clean your teeth. Brushing can clean the surface of the teeth, but it cannot do the same for the spaces in between teeth. Flossing helps get rid of food residue and other detrimental substances stuck between the teeth.
 
Choose a "Teeth Friendly Diet" 
Foods such as nuts, fruits (such as apples), cheese, chicken and vegetables are teeth friendly .  Cheese and vegetables like carrots and celery are high in fiber and water, which help clean teeth and even causes your salivary gland to produce more saliva, which neutralizes acid. 
  
Limit Intake of Sodas & Alcohol 
Soda and alcohol contain phosphorus, which is an important mineral for your health. Too much phosphorous can deplete the calcium level of the body causing dental hygiene problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Also, carbonated drinks are high in acid, and that destroys tooth enamel.
Helpful Tip:
If you must drink soda or alcohol, drink with a straw so you can avoid direct contact with your teeth.
  
In the Month of February 
Remember that oral health affects our ability to speak, smile, eat, and show emotions. It also affects self-esteem, school performance, and attendance at work and school. Don't forget to schedule regular dental check-ups to keep your smile, and yourself, healthy

  
 
  Have a great February!    
American Maritime Officers Plans 
 
American Maritime Officers Plans | | [email protected]| www.amoplans.com
2 West Dixie Highway Dania Beach, FL 33004-4312