In order to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you need to visit a dentist at least twice a year for dental routine check-up. A dentist can uncover important clues regarding your overall well-being. For instance, if you have sores in your mouth which do not heal, that can be a sign that you are suffering from oral cancer. Additionally, swollen and red gums can indicate diabetes. A specialist can be the first to notice these signs or symptoms and guide you on more tests or treatments you may require. In some situations, dental doctor will work closely with your personal doctor to help manage your follow-up dental care. The most common ailments that a doctor look out for that can influence your oral well-being include:
Stress
Bruxism is one of diseases caused by stress. This condition is characterised by grinding or clenching of teeth, which can lead to worn down or chipped teeth. In addition to stress, bruxism can occur as a result of poor alignment of teeth. In most cases, it is hard to know that you have been grinding teeth, but your physician can spot the symptoms. To prevent further damage to your teeth, your doctor can fit you with a personalised mouth guard to prevent you from damaging your teeth as you sleep.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can be difficult to spot due to the fact that its first sign is normally a small white or red spot in the mouth. Your periodontist will generally screen for oral cancer as part of dental routine check-up. An individual is required to schedule regular health check in order to increase the chances that any likely cancerous spots or lesions will be identified early and treated as well. It is also important to inform your dentist if you have noticed signs such as a lump, numbness, pain, and sores in your mouth.
Heart Disease
Oral disease may increase the risk of stroke as well as heart disease. If you are suffering from cardiovascular disease, you should inform your periodontist. Studies have shown that there is a link between gum ailments and cardiovascular condition. It was found that the inflammation in the mouth can increase soreness in various parts of the body, including arteries. The inflammation has been associated with strokes and heart attacks, so treating oral conditions and alleviating the soreness in the mouth can lower the risk of heart diseases. To prevent the risk factors, you should spend about five minutes a day to get rid of plaque and other microorganisms by brushing and flossing your teeth.
Premature and Low Weight Births
Research shows that pregnant women suffering from chronic periodontitis stand a higher chance to deliver a premature baby of low birth weight. This is because these bacteria in the mouth of a pregnant woman with gum disease can stimulate an increase in production of a substance known as prostaglandin and other detrimental inflammatory compounds. These chemicals can induce early labour and increase the risk of delivering a premature baby.
Most doctors agree that women who are pregnant or looking forward to become pregnant ought to get a dental check and if possible early treatment to alleviate the dangers associated with gum disease.