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General health and well-being are not only related to how well you treat your body, but they are also linked to the condition of your oral health. Many major health issues have been associated with the condition of the teeth and gums. Researchers have been studying the connection between oral health and the body and the findings, though not conclusive, are compelling.

The Importance of Oral Health

Studies indicate that diseased gums and poor oral health are also factors in several major health conditions. These include diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, stroke and pregnancy issues. In edentulous patients, those with no teeth, chronic kidney problems are frequent. Unfortunately, some of these health problems are neglected until the situation reaches advanced stages.

While maintaining optimal oral health will not necessarily prevent any of these issues, it definitely helps. Researchers are not completely certain how the link between oral health and general health and well-being works, but they do have some interesting theories. They have discovered that individuals who take good care of their teeth and gums often seem to take better care of their bodies as well.

A nice smile can boost confidence and radiates health and vitality. Prevention is one of the best ways to ensure that your health, physical and oral, stays at a high level. Preventive dental care not only protects your teeth and gums, it also contributes to your general well-being in psychological ways as well as physical.

Preventive Dental Care

Chances are, you have heard about regular dental checkups since childhood and hopefully, they are a part of your lifestyle. These oral examinations provide valuable information. Your dentist is able to monitor changes that take place in your teeth, gums and the soft tissues of your mouth. Gum disease and dental caries can be identified and treated before they have an opportunity to cause serious problems. In the case of children, preventive care can help minimize the need for braces, when potential problems of alignment and occlusion are discovered early. Dental sealants can be placed on newly erupted permanent teeth to help reduce the incidence of dental decay. Preventive care includes screening as well.

Oral Cancer Screening and Salivary Testing

Two important components of the annual oral exam are oral cancer screening and diagnostic salivary testing. Both of these take just a few moments, they are painless and can be life-saving. Screening for oral cancer is very important because when caught early, most of these cancers can be cured. Most of the general population does not have this screening. When an oral cancer is identified, it is often in the later stages of development. Early detection has a much better prognosis.

Diagnostic salivary testing is a relatively new development, and it is very helpful in identifying specific bacteria that can cause dental decay and/or gum disease. This is important because it means treatment can be targeted more directly. Testing makes it easier to get rid of gum disease, so it is less likely to return.

Envision Dental is a practice where prevention is a priority, along with patient comfort. We want to help you keep your smile healthy and looking beautiful. Call us today to schedule your appointment.