eTopical Precious Finds
Did you know that your oral health shares a critical connection with your physical health? Many people dread their yearly dental exam, but because of the significant impact good dental hygiene has on the body, it is very important that you keep your scheduled appointment with a San Tan Valley dentist. These appointments help support good personal health.
1. Oral Health Promotes More Than Just Eating Functions
Many think that a dental exam only reveals cavities or early signs up gum disease. However, a dentist also looks for things that may impact other areas of your health. Taking care of your teeth helps preserve functions like chewing, speaking, or swallowing, but it also helps prevent harmful bacteria from entering your body. The mouth provides direct passage to invading germs and delivers them straight to the digestive tract or respiratory system. This is there has been such a major emphasis on hand washing and wearing a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic. Keeping your mouth from turning into a breeding ground for bacteria and disease-carrying germs is important to your general health.
2. Dental Hygiene Prevent Serious Health Conditions
Dental exams are necessary to warn individuals of their potential risk for serious health conditions. Gum disease can range from mild to severe, but this condition causes more than just tender, swollen, and bleeding gums. There is evidence that suggests gum disease can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Endocarditis, which is an infection that develops in the lining of the heart, can occur because bacteria entered the body. Tooth decay also increases the risk of bacteria hiding in the mouth and getting pulled down into the delicate areas of the lungs or stomach.
3. Dental Exams Give Answers to Health Concerns
If you have had trouble sleeping at night or your throat is continually sore when you wake up in the morning, you may be dealing with sleep apnea. During an exam, a dentist evaluates the placement of your teeth, the size of your tongue, and sees if there is any substantial redness in the throat. Those who are experiencing accelerated tooth decay may be cautioned about a poor diet full of sugary foods and liquids. Sugar not only rots the teeth, but it can increase the risk of developing diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions.
Though it may not be high on your personal radar, taking care of your oral health is vital to preserving your quality of life and overall wellness. Twice a year is a general recommendation for dental exams, but follow good oral hygiene practices each day.
