Dental and vision health are connected to overall well-being, and regular visits to the dentist and optometrist are key to identifying and preventing potential health problems in the mouth and eyes, respectively, as well as other body systems.
Oral health professionals emphasize the importance of self-care along with routine exams and cleanings to reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Twice-annual visits to the dentist for exams and cleanings are recommended.
A dentist can spot early signs of gum disease and other oral health issues before they become serious problems, and by checking in twice a year you will be able to catch these things as early as possible, according to Yazdani Family Dentistry CEO and Director Shahrooz Yazdani.
Oral examinations can reveal signs and symptoms of more than 90% of systemic diseases. Excessive plaque, inflamed gums and dry mouth can be indicators of diabetes, and a dentist is frequently the first health professional to tell a person they have signs of diabetes.
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is among the oral health conditions that can impact other aspects of wellness, according to dental hygienist Whitney DiFoggio. Gum disease triggers the immune system to attack the bacteria in the gums and can increase the susceptibility to heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease and other chronic and life-changing health conditions.
While dentists play an important role on oral health, maintenance of the teeth and gums begins at home. In addition to the oft-repeated advice to brush at least twice a day, flossing daily is advised, particularly for people who have had prior tooth and gingival health issues.
“Your mouth is full of bacteria both good and bad, and without proper oral care, the bad bacteria can get into the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, including the heart and brain,” says dentist Charles Reinertsen. “Spending seven to 10 minutes a day cleaning the teeth and gums is the best way to prevent gum disease and infections.”
