Father’s Day is just around the corner, on Sunday, June 15.  June is also Men’s Health Month, where we devote extra time to help the Dads we know and love to remember to care for themselves as much as they care for their families.

Give the gift of good health by encouraging fathers in your life to get an annual wellness check-up and regular screenings.  Most health insurance policies now cover preventive care at no cost to the beneficiary. Look here for a list of preventive services that includes screenings for health issues common for men.

Dad’s Oral and Heart Health

Please also encourage the men in your life to get regular dental checkups.  Heart health is especially important for men. Did you know that studies have shown a direct connection between heart health and oral health?

Scientific research has discovered a link between the presence of bacteria associated with gum disease, and an increased risk of heart disease.  Gum disease affects nearly 50% of adults aged 30 and over in the U.S.  Gum disease is also quite sneaky – by the time it becomes painful, it is often advanced and more difficult to treat.

In a previous post, we outlined how important gum health is to heart and whole body health.  The best news is that gum disease can be managed and often cured once discovered, and is even totally preventable.

When it comes to gum disease and dental health, the best defense is a good offense; by removing bacteria and eliminating places where bacteria and plaque can hide.  That means regular checkups and professional cleanings with a dentist, along with a stellar home care routine that includes brushing for two minutes, two times a day, and flossing.

Gift Ideas that will Have Your Dad Smiling for Days

Do you need some inspirations for great gift ideas that will not only make the Dad in your life smile, but make his smile healthier?  Here are 5 gift ideas for Father’s Day:

Bluetooth Toothbrush: For the gadget/techie guy, Oral B is expected to release the newest brush in the SmartSeries line any time now.   This new electric toothbrush features Bluetooth ® technology for 2-way communication with Dad’s smartphone.  Apps are already available for iPhone and Android.  Read the press release here.   If the Dad you’re shopping for is an early adopter of new technology, get the jump on this new brush! We’ll keep you updated when Oral-B releases this item in stores.

During the wait for that bluetooth toothbrush, Dad can also download a free app called BrushDJ.  We’ve featured this app in our post for moms, too!  This fun and creative app helps keep track of dental health including when it’s time to replace a brush or brush head, and also happens to play awesome music to make sure everyone is brushing for the recommended two minutes!

Tooth Neckties & Accessories: Sure, the neck-tie is a more traditional Father’s Day gift, but these tooth-themed neckties are unique, with styles and patterns that will “suit” any suit.  A great reminder to Dad of how much you love his smile!   Want to complete the whole look, or do you happen to know a Dad who is also a dentist?  Why not throw in a set of dentist-inspired cufflinks.

Creative Toothbrush Holders:  Oral hygiene should be routine, but it doesn’t have to be boring with a fun and interesting toothbrush holder.  Brushing and flossing can be a fun family affair with a little creativity!  We like this list by CrookedBrains.

Dental Emergency Kit: Do you know a dad who loves to camp and travel?  Nothing can bring even the toughest hiker and traveler to his knees like dental problems when he is hours from a dentist.  This emergency kit contains some basic first aid to help deal with most common dental emergencies until dad can get to a dentist.

Noise Canceling Headphones: You may not be able to send Dad on a vacation for Father’s Day, but you can give him the gift of a little peace and quiet with some noise canceling headphones.  These headphones are also a great accessory to bring to dental appointments for those who are less than excited to hear some of the noises that are usually found in a dental office.  Here is a helpful review of headphones from CNET with a variety of price points.

As always, we welcome comments, ideas and feedback.  Feel free to leave a comment below or email us at email@1fd.org.

Cheers, Dads!