The health of the mouth is directly related to the well-being of the entire body. That is why Toronto dentist, and hygienists, routinely screen for physical diseases. They know that some illnesses appear in the mouth before symptoms are noticed elsewhere. It is also possible that bacteria from a gum infection could spread to another part of a person’s body. It follows that a visit to a dentist helps protect general health, not only teeth. It could even save a life.
Should a person have heart problems, or a family history of them, regular dental check-ups are very important. Any bacteria that enters the blood stream from a diseased mouth could cause endocarditis or an inflammation of the heart’s lining. Some doctors already believe that problems in the mouth are directly related to plaque deposits forming in arteries, but studies have yet to confirm this. Regardless, maintaining good oral health is one way to protect against cardiovascular problems.
Several years ago it was discovered that ninety-five percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes had minor to severe problems with oral health. Serious gum problems are found in up to one third of all people managing diabetes and is considered a complication of the illness. Diabetics need regular oral exams to take care of their mouth and also to learn about special procedures recommended for people with this illness. It is especially important since periodontal problems make it more difficult for diabetics to regulate their blood sugar.
There is also good reason for pregnant women to visit a dentist. Bacteria from oral infections have been linked to premature births and low birth weight. In one study mothers with periodontal disease were up to seven times more likely to have a premature birth or a baby with low weight. These babies are also at risk for other problems such as asthma, ear infections, birth and behavior abnormalities.
Bacteria from oral disease can also be a cause of respiratory infections. Two other things that can be detected by a dentist are osteoporosis and a possible eating disorder. Both of those conditions involve tooth and bone loss. Dentists are often the first to detect oral cancer which is a more common kind of cancer than those types that affect skin, blood, brain, liver, lungs or the cervix. A dental visit may even alleviate or prevent a sleep disorder. They, too, are sometimes related to gum disease.
Malnutrition is always a possibility when someone has poor oral health, whether it be a cavity or gum infection. When it is painful to chew people stop eating foods that require biting down or they may stop eating all together. This is more of a problem where the availability of dental care is limited or if people are unable to afford those services. However, vitamin deficiencies can also happen to the person who just puts off going to the dentist in spite of having difficulty eating.
Doctors and dentists would like people to include oral care when they think about health care. Doctor and dentist visits have long been viewed in a compartmentalized way rather than being seen as related. Many people visit their medical doctor regularly but do not consider seeing oral doctors as part of a thorough exam. Health professionals hope to bring the two types of doctor visits together as complimentary parts of one health check-up. One more thing that dentists and physicians want the public to know is that cigarette smoke damages tooth enamel and the surrounding bone. The number one risk factor for periodontal disease is smoking.
Many people avoid the dental office until they are in pain yet with scheduled dental exams some serious health issues can be avoided. Dentists recommend to brush, floss, and replace the toothbrush a few times each year. This is not just to protect the teeth but to keep a person’s entire body in good health.
Toronto dentist helps you maintain healthy teeth and gum, and fixes problems related to them. Supported by SEO Professional service in Toronto.