To many people, a visit to the dentist's office is about getting their teeth cleaned, having a filling taken care of or addressing cosmetic desires. However, a dental visit is not just about teeth anymore. More now than ever dentists and physicians alike are agreeing on the strong oral systemic links. What that means is that what goes on in your mouth can affect the rest of your body! Your oral health can often be a gateway to your overall health.

"Physicians are taking a more holistic approach to their patients' overall health," says Sally Cram, DDS, PC, consumer advisor for the American Dental Association. And for good reason. In one recent study, people with gum disease were 40% more likely to have a chronic condition on top of it. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a relationship between periodontal disease and health complications such as a stroke and heart disease. Women with gum disease also show higher incidences or pre- term, low birth weight babies and miscarriage.

Recent research is pointing toward convincing evidence that more than 90% of systemic diseases have oral systemic links. Research suggests strong links between oral health and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, inflammation in the body, dementia, infertility and cancer- to name a few.

What Can You Do?

Here's the good news: research also shows that good oral health may actually prevent certain diseases from occurring. At home practicing good oral hygiene can improve your chances of avoiding other health related concerns.

Remember to:

• Brush twice a day- Remember to use a timer and brush for at least 2 mins each time
• Floss or Waterpik daily- this removes plaque and bacteria from places your toothbrush can't reach
• Eat a Healthy Diet- Eating healthy will help provide the nutrients necessary (vitamin A and C) to prevent gum disease. It will also contribute to a strong immune system.
• Avoid Cigarettes, Smokeless Tobacco & E-cigarettes- All three are known to contribute to gum disease and oral cancer.
• Visit the dentistsat Brockport Smiles regularly- This is one of the most effective ways to take control of your health. Staying regular with your dental visits will help to prevent any problems and detect possible problems in their early stages. The mouth is often the location used to diagnose a variety of diseases.

Not only will visiting the dentist give you a beautiful gleaming smile- but it will also help you live a long and healthy life!

By Brockport Smiles

January 3, 2019