No one likes going to the doctor, and many people do not like going to the dentist; however, this does not mean that they should not go when they need to. Just as people must choose a healthy diet and regular exercise routine if they wish to lose weight or maintain their health, people must also make the choice to keep their oral health as a priority. By making dental visits a priority, you are doing much more than just protecting your smile – you are also protecting your entire health.
Many people are unaware that the health of their mouth is an indication of the health of their entire body. In 2000, the US Surgeon General made the connection that the mouth is a “mirror” of health and disease in the body. Making dental visits a priority can reduce your risk of life-threatening illnesses and severe complications like:
The mouth is full of millions of bacteria, and like all bacteria some are very harmful. Regular dental visits have many purposes: thoroughly cleaning your teeth and examining your mouth are two of the most important purposes. If there are issues within your mouth, your dentist can easily identify them and provide necessary and effective intervention before they disrupt your mouth and your life.
Bacteria can travel throughout the body, which means that oral bacteria can travel and infect other tissues in your body. Disease and inflammation in the mouth can negatively affect your overall health – yet good oral health can promote your overall health.
It is vital that you visit your dentist. Your dentist has been trained to identify problems and provide proper treatment so that they do not worsen. In fact, dentists can often identify patients who have diabetes before the patients themselves even know they diabetes. Your dentist offers you more than just a good teeth cleaning – your dentist offers life-saving treatment.
Riverheart Family Dentistry encourages you to make dental visits a priority. We are here to serve your entire family. Please call today.
