We all want straight, white, clean healthy teeth!
Going to the dentist is not just about getting your teeth cleaned. A visit to the dentist could just save your life.
Oral systemic health is the connection between oral health and overall health.
Brad had bleeding gums was feeling a little more tired than usual, he saw his Dentist who recommends he see a specialist.
The periodontist recognized his symptoms might be more than gum disease!
Good thing for Brad and his family he took action and got it checked out further. He was diagnosed with Leukemia! The Dr. said had he if he had waited even another month, it may have been too late.
Your mouth is a window into your body, knowing the health of your mouth and visiting your dentist regularly is not just about healthy teeth. It is good to be aware that problems in your mouth may be impacting your general health.
Periodontal disease and tooth decay are diseases that happen due to the presence of bacteria.
Gum disease can be an indicator something is out of whack in your body, it has been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pregnancy complications, Alzheimer’s, certain cancers, etc. Other conditions include oral cancer, oral airway and sleep apnea, TMJ – headaches & migraines, dental decay.
The connections between the mouth and the body increase the importance of good oral health Ask your dentist if you have a bone loss on your x-rays or if they are getting bleeding when they take your periodontal measurements. If you don’t know what your numbers are you should ask during your appointment.
A simple explanation for periodontal measurements 1-3 millimeters without bleeding is considered normal. Anything over three with bleeding is considered a disease.
If you are concerned that conditions of your mouth may be increasing health risk factors, you should consult with a dentist who is trained in oral-systemic healthcare.
You need to be your own health care advocate. You never know when a visit to the dentist could save your life.
