subject: Your Dentist - The First Line Defense Against Chronic Disease [print this page] Many people think that going to their dentist just serves the function of a routine cleaning. However your dentist might be the first to discover the beginning signs of many chronic health conditions that if left unchecked can lead to severe illness and even death.
Many people believe that the health of our teeth and gums is independent of other systems in the body like cardiovascular health. But if you take a closer look you will realize that your oral health directly reflect on and affects your overall health.
Your mouth provides direct access to the rest of your body. Chewing is the first step in the digestion process. Because of this your oral health afects your digestion and bloodstream as well as your nervous, endocrine, lymphatic and skeletal systems.
Harmful organisms, bacteria, are harbored and easily breed in your mouth. Because your mouth is connected with your entire body the bacteria gain easy access to your entire system.
Researchers estimate that about 90% of systemic diseases in your body are directly related to conditions in your mouth. Because of this, your dentist is often the cornerstone of helping you detect and prevent diseases.
All dentists are trained at diagnosing and treating adverse conditions of your teeth, gums and upper jaw and face. Remember that these conditions directly impact your overall health and well-being.
There are several diseases that your dentist may be the first to detect and diagnose. Here are 7 of them.
1. Red, sore, swollen and bleeding gums are indicators of gum disease or periodontitis. Medical studies have shown that periodontitis is linked with increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. Anemia is indicated if you have sore and pale gums. Anemia affects about 3.5 million people in America. If left untreated anemia can lead to severe fatigue, heart problems, nerve damage, impaired mental function and even death.
3. Leukemia, a form of cancer, is indicated by bright red, spongy, inflamed gums that bleed easily.
4. Erosion and a breakdown of your teeth enamel is a sure sign that you may be suffering from eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.
5. Air blowing on your gums and making them bleed can be an indication of pregnancy.
6. Bad breath, chronic dry mouth, receding gums and gums that bleed easily are often associated with diabetes.
7. White spots and sores that are slow to heal on your gums and other oral tissues in the mouth can be early signs of oral cancer.
Chronic diseases are easier to treat and very often reverse if caught early enough If it's been longer than 6 months, schedule an appointment with your family dentist today. Remember, early detection of health issues goes a long ways towards reversing them completely.
