A good dentist is about so much more than just a beautiful smile…Regular checkups and cleanings are certainly important to keep your teeth as pearly white as possible, but they actually serve an even greater purpose. Oral health examinations can be a window into your overall health – indicators of underlying problems can often be seen in the mouth, teeth, and gums. The right dentist will not only focus on keeping your teeth clean, but will also serve you well in the following areas:

1. Prevention

Proper checkups and cleanings by a good dentist can help prevent disease in other systems of the body. The human mouth is full of bacteria – the majority of which is harmless. However, if well-established oral hygiene habits are not practiced on a regular basis, harmful bacteria could quickly take up residence in your mouth. With easy access to the digestive and respiratory systems, a mouth full of harmful bacteria could be a recipe for disaster. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, poor oral health may lead to endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy and birth complications, and pneumonia. There are already so many threats to overall health in modern society – why put yourself at further risk? Regular visits with a great dentist can help prevent unnecessary suffering as a result of various diseases. 

2. Treatment

A good dentist will analyze and treat oral problems that may be caused by other ailments. If you already suffer from certain diseases, it is possible that your oral health has taken a hit as a result. Your dentist will not only make sure your teeth are clean but will do a full oral health evaluation to find issues stemming from disease that may be negatively impacting your teeth, gums, and mouth. Once the surface problem and root cause have been identified, the proper treatment can be implemented to alleviate pain and prevent further damage to your oral and overall health. 

3. Early Detection

A good dentist knows which surface problems and oral health concerns may be indications of larger, more serious underlying health issues. X-rays can show early signs of bone loss…chronic bad breath can be a sign of diabetes…a sore jaw may signal an oncoming heart attack. And those are just to name a few – many diseases have warning signs that can show up in the mouth. A well-trained dentist with an eye for detail can detect early indicators of a problem so you can get help before it’s too late. 

A good dentist is an important ally in your quest for overall health. Choosing one that is highly qualified and attentive to detail can have a significant impact on your health and well-being. Your dentist should teach and encourage good oral hygiene habits to help prevent diseases that may be caused by harmful bacteria in the mouth and will know just how to treat any oral manifestations that may arise from existing disease in the body. Don’t wait until it’s too late – if you live in St. Augustine, FL and need a great dentist on your side, call Dental Remedies today for a consultation.