For many people, going to the dentist is the last thing they want to do. We find excuses to put off visiting the dentist because of the potential discomfort we may experience. But procrastination can cause serious medical issues. Focusing on the long-term health benefits of regularly visiting your holistic dentist can be the motivation you need to spur a more proactive approach to your oral health.
Below we explore the health benefits you gain from seeing your dentist regularly.
Regular Dental Cleaning Helps Reduce Risk of Heart Disease
Research shows that cleaning your teeth can help reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. Chronic inflammation of the gums is behind this association. With regular cleaning and scaling, we can mitigate inflammation-causing bacteria. As a result, the blood vessel function throughout the body is improved. Inflammation in our bodies has been linked to many diseases, especially cardiovascular disease.
Regular Dental Exams Help Detect Oral Cancer
Oral cancers pose a very serious health threat. Regular dental checkups by your holistic dentist can catch oral cancer much sooner and can be a life-saving health benefit. Some signs of oral cancers include sores that do not heal, unusual bleeding, or white patches on gums. Regular visits include tissue and gum examinations that ensure your oral tissues are healthy and that you have no malignant tissues that may require biopsies.
Treat and Prevent Gingivitis
Gingivitis gum disease can cause severe issues in our mouths. Gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, where calculus (or tartar) builds up on the gum line and under our gums. This contributes to inflammation, which we now know is detrimental to our overall health. Your local dentist is the best source of education and prevention on this issue.
Prevent Tooth Loss
Regular cleanings and checkups help prevent gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis can destroy the gum and bone, the anchor and support system for our teeth. Tooth decay can also cause tooth loss. Losing your permanent teeth can cause your teeth to shift, which can have a detrimental effect on your oral health.
Early Detection and Treatment of Cavities
Cavities are not only painful but can become a serious health threat when left untreated. Cavities in and of themselves can cause infections, which, in turn, can cause problems. Infections in the mouth must be treated seriously because they can potentially spread to the bloodstream. This can lead to a condition known as septicemia. Septicemia is a severe life-threatening infection that can get worse very quickly. It can arise from infections in the mouth and throughout the body. Focusing on the long-term health benefits of regularly visiting your holistic dentist can be the motivation you need to spur a more proactive approach to your oral health.
During your checkup, the dentist will learn about your health history and recent changes in your oral health. The dentist will examine your entire mouth, tongue, and gums for signs of inflammation, growths, tumors, and swollen glands. Your occlusion, or bite, will be checked. Any previous dental work will be checked, including fillings, implants, crowns, and other restorations. X-rays will allow your dentist to detect dental decay and other issues with your teeth and jaw bones. Cleaning will remove plaque and tartar on the surface and below the gum line to prevent gingivitis.
