While dental professionals often recommend cleanings twice a year, emerging research suggests once annually may suffice for many individuals. A comprehensive study followed 5,100 adults over 16 years. Participants had no existing gum disease and underwent professional cleanings once or twice yearly.

Losing weight is a challenging journey with its share of ups and downs. As someone with experience supporting loved ones through lifestyle changes, Ive seen how meaningful encouragement from those around them can make all the difference. Heres how to provide genuine support for someone working towar

Healthcare in the Netherlands is world-class, yet theres always room for meaningful improvements. The Best Care Idea competition empowers innovators like you to propose practical solutions that enhance patient care and efficiency. Join thousands of participants—your idea could transform lives and be

Many people rely on earplugs for better sleep, but worry about long-term effects—like becoming unable to sleep without them or damaging their ears. ENT specialist Sietske Meinesz explains: In itself, the use of earplugs is not harmful to the ear. If you do not suffer from ear infections or from a bu

Tired eyes, known as visual fatigue, affect about 60% of adults aged 20-45. Common symptoms include itchy, red, or burning eyes, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, and headaches. Triggers often include stress, overall fatigue, dry air from air conditioning, or extended screen time. Eye care expe

Discover six actionable steps you can take today to set yourself up for a vibrant, healthy week ahead. Drawing from years of wellness coaching experience, these strategies build lasting habits without overwhelm. Schedule Your WorkoutsLock in your exercise times now. Align your calendar with your tra

Angelina Jolie lost her mother to breast cancer in 2007. When her children ask if the same fate could befall her, she reassures them they dont need to worry—though she carries the BRCA1 gene mutation herself. This genetic mutation sharply raises the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. To protect her

Owning a dog can significantly boost your well-being, backed by research. Here are seven compelling reasons to consider welcoming one into your home. 1. Dogs Get You MovingDaily walks are essential for your dog, providing consistent exercise. Studies show dog owners are 34% more likely to achieve th

Weve significantly expanded and improved our Medical File on the new website. Discover how it works and share your suggestions for new topics via the form below. Searching for specific info?Search extensively across our Medical File. Enter a term to instantly see matching articles and files, giving

Epidemiologists predict that 1 in 5 Dutch people will develop some form of skin cancer. Spotting suspicious changes early can save lives. Mark your calendar for Check Your Skin Day on Saturday, May 25. Regular self-checks are key to catching skin cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. On Sat

This chilly spring offers welcome relief for hay fever sufferers, especially those allergic to grass pollen, with significantly fewer complaints reported.Grass pollen levels are 94% lower than usual. The season isnt canceled, though—its set to begin in early June.Track your symptoms and check daily

Stock your beauty routine with these expert-recommended essentials to achieve radiant skin and healthy hair all summer long. Exfoliating ScrubRemove dead skin cells before summer hits. A good scrub is a bathroom staple—your skin will glow brighter, and your tan will develop evenly and last longer. S

Roman Atwoods mission is clear: make the world gape in unison. Its working wonders—were yawning uncontrollably just writing this. Does his video trigger you too? Intrigued? Watch the video below and see if you can resist.

Sometimes its helpful to skip the break week on birth control pills—for scheduling reasons or convenience. But is it safe? Gynecologist Lucie Ribbert: The bleeding in the pills stop week isnt a true period. Its withdrawal bleeding triggered by dropping progesterone levels. Monthly breaks arent medic

Do you constantly battle cold hands and feet, even when others are comfortable? Preferring to crank up the heat? Youre not alone—relief is possible. General practitioner Ingrid Kuiper offers expert insights. Ingrid Kuiper (GP): Many people, especially women, feel perpetually cold—from chilly extre

Individuals with anorexia nervosa often hold a distorted view of their body size. Cutting-edge research reveals they even navigate spaces as if their bodies are significantly wider than reality. The ExperimentResearchers employed an adjustable gate that could be widened or narrowed. Participants com

Can fatigue persist long after anesthesia? Fatigue After Anesthesia I underwent surgery about six months ago that lasted around five hours. I recovered from anesthesia quickly, becoming alert and aware of my surroundings soon after. But even now, I feel off—tiring easily and struggling to maintain m

Before baring your legs, a golden tan makes all the difference. Self-tanners make it easy, but can you safely sunbathe with self-tanner on? Tanning with or Without the SunYes, you can sunbathe after applying self-tanner. It bonds to the outermost layer of skin (dead skin cells), while natural sun ta

Slightly warming your skin can help you fall asleep faster, achieve deeper sleep, and rest longer throughout the night. Body temperature and the warmth of your sleep environment have long been known to influence sleep quality. Researchers at the Free University are now investigating skin temperature

Sniffling persists across the Netherlands as the flu epidemic, already the longest in 20 years, refuses to fade. Data from respected research institute Nivel reveals a recent uptick in cases after 17 grueling weeks. Peak surpassed, but activity lingersLast week, 61 per 100,000 people sought medical