Regular dental check-ups are conducive to a great smile and optimum dental health. In addition, regular visits tell a dentist about your general health and whether you might be developing certain diseases like diabetes. Current research states that the health of your mouth is an indication of the condition of your overall bodily health.
For instance, when your dental health is up to par, chances are your general health is good as well. Alternatively, if your dental health is poor, there may be underlying problems. Studies show that good oral health can actually prevent specific disease from occurring. Dentists can detect clues to your general health while examining your mouth and gums.
Gum Disease and Health Problems
The AGD, Academy of General Dentistry, believes there is a correlation between periodontal disease and health difficulties such as heart disease and stroke. In fact, women afflicted with gum disease appear to have increased rates of pre-term, low-birth weight infants.
Other studies indicate that over 90% of all diseases concerning multiple organs or the whole body have oral symptoms, including mouth ulcers, extreme gum problems, dry mouth, and swollen gums.
These dental health symptoms could be symptoms of heart disease, kidney disease, pancreatic cancer, oral cancer, leukemia, and diabetes. Because most individuals have regular oral health examinations, their dentist may be the first to notice and diagnose any health problems in their early stages.
Dental Health and Bacteria
The mouth is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria; however, most are not detrimental. Nonetheless, too much bacteria could lead to various health issues. Keeping the mouth clean and brushing and flossing, is the best way to decrease and control the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
If harmful bacteria are not kept under control, your dental health will suffer by paving the way for tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist will see if there is any indication of decay during your visit. Excessive bacteria inside the mouth can lead to oral problems along with getting into the bloodstream where further damage can ensue.
What You Should Do
Seeing your dentist regularly will assist with keeping your mouth in good health. In addition, this permits your dentist to look out for developments that could lead to other health complications. A dental health exam can also spot poor hygiene and nutrition, incorrect jaw alignment, and development problems. By supplying your dentist with your entire medical history and letting them know of any current health developments, even if there seems to be no connection to your oral health, you are helping to keep your overall health in check.
