The Link Between Dental and General Health
The old cliché is that everything is connected when it comes to your health. This is very much true. Dental health issues can have a major impact on your overall well-being. When you meet with a skilled Boston cosmetic dentist, it may actually be as valuable as a visit to your physician. Let’s look at why this is the case and check out some examples of how dental health concerns may be related to major general health issues.
The Health of Your Smile and Your Health in General
In some ways, it is possible to enhance your overall health simply by enhancing the health of your smile. When you think about it, when you relieve the pain and discomfort of a sore tooth, it can have a major affect on your overall demeanor. But that’s just a superficial notion of how dentistry can enhance your health.
When you visit our Boston cosmetic dentistry and prosthodontics practice, we’ll be sure to always perform a full examination so your best interests are always met. Let’s move on to some concrete examples.
Gingivitis, Periodontitis, and Respiratory Issues
In the Journal of Periodontology, an interesting study found that subjects who had advanced gum disease and unhealthy gums are much more likely to suffer from pneumonia and other respiratory diseases. The research on these findings is still going on, but a few believe that the bacteria responsible for gingivitis and periodontitis may affect the lungs when inhaled. (It should be noted that other studies that have found connections between diabetes and gum disease.)
Missing Teeth, Receding Gums, and Problems with Bone Density
When you lose a tooth, the lack of root structure in the area of the gap can lead to major problems down the road. Gradually, your gums may recede and your jawbone in that area may diminish as well. This can result in tooth misalignment and other problems. It’s for this reason that Boston dental implants provide great aesthetic and dental health enhancements.
Dry Mouth May Not Be a Mere Inconvenience
Dry mouth is annoying, yes, but it could also be the symptom of a medical condition. For instance, the inability to generate sufficient saliva may be a symptom of a blockage or, at worst, oral cancer. Be sure to pay attention to these matters as they can be very serious.
How We Can Help You Enhancing Your Overall Health and Well-Being
Whether you visit our cosmetic and general dentistry practice for your regular check-up or for emergency care, we will always perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth to identify any aesthetic or functional problems you may be facing. We’ll work together so your dental health and general well-being is the best it can be.
Contact Our Practice for Information on General and Cosmetic Dentistry
If you would like more information on how we can help you enhance your dental health and improve your overall well-being, be sure to contact our Boston cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice today. When you stop by for a visit, we’ll discuss all of your dental health concerns in more detail.