FAQs
How can a dentist detect other health problems?
Dental
professionals are trained to look for many systemic diseases simply through your
regular oral exam. For example, dental X-rays show more than just cavities; they
also can point to early signs of osteoporosis.
What types of disease can be linked back to oral
health?
Studies have shows the link between periodontal (gum)
disease and coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, heart disease bacterial
pneumonia, pre-term births and low-birth weight babies. In addition, oral health
problems can negatively affect your ability to speak, chew and swallow properly,
which can have an adverse impact on your ability to consume the nutrition your
body needs to remain healthy.
What can I do to stay healthy?
Brushing and flossing
several times a day will help remove bacteria from the mouth, that otherwise
could potentially travel through your body and cause problems elsewhere. Visit
the dentist regularly for professional cleaning and checkups to help prevent any
problems and help detect possible problems in their early stages. Be sure to
provide your dentist with a complete health history, including any illnesses and
medication use.
Resources
American DentalAssociation: Oral-Systemic Health
News
Release: The Connection Between Oral Health and Systemic Diseases