December 28, 2018

The Link Between Oral Health and General Health

While many people understand that oral health is connected to overall health, the same level of importance, attention, and action is often not directed toward dental care as to other medical care. The truth is, oral health and overall health go hand-in-hand.

Even the healthiest mouth has bacteria, and without proper oral care and regular checkups, oral bacteria can build up, find its way into your bloodstream, and eventually travel throughout your body and contribute to chronic disease. When issues such as gum disease go unnoticed and untreated, these chronic oral infections can potentially impact conditions like heart disease and stroke, autoimmune disease, and diabetes.

Research shows that many people – even those with dental insurance – are not taking advantage of regular, preventative dental care, often for one of these reasons:

    1. I have no pain or other symptoms – why do I need to go to the dentist? The early warning signs of major dental and medical issues are not always obvious. Read more about this here.
    2. Going to the dentist makes me anxious or afraid. We get it! Many people experience anxiety about dental visits. Our doctors and hygienists are not only highly trained and experienced, but they are gentle, reassuring, and welcoming as well. Just coming in to meet and talk to one of our dentists about your concerns can be a great first step. Learn more about our doctors here, and hear about our gentle dentistry and fun, relaxing environment from other patients in our Google or Facebook reviews.
    3. Going to the dentist is too expensive. Keep in mind that preventative care will save you money on more major procedures down the road. We never want cost to be a barrier to your health, so talk to us about your dental insurance, and we’ll be happy to help you figure out what’s covered, how to submit paperwork, and the best course of action for you.
    4. My child’s dental health is more important. Your child’s dental health is important – but so is yours! Try placing as much value on your own preventative care as you would on that of your child. We can even schedule your own hygiene appointment at the same time as your child’s appointment for a convenient, one-stop visit.

If you have questions about the effect of your dental health on your overall health, talk it over with one of our dentists! Visit our contact page to book your appointment.