We all know that regular dental visits can help identify oral health concerns like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. But did you know these visits can also tell us a lot about your overall health? At my dental office in Alexandria, we stress the importance of maintaining recommended visits to us not only for the health of your mouth, but also for the health of your whole body.
What’s Your Mouth Saying?
Your oral health can say quite a bit about your overall health. In fact, recent research shows that the health of your mouth actually reflects the health of your whole body. Many systemic diseases (diseases that affect the whole body) have oral manifestations, and symptoms can show here before anywhere else. This means your dentist in Alexandria may be the first person in your medical team to suspect a whole-body problem. And sometimes, those problems can be serious. Some of the diseases that have oral symptoms include:
- Leukemia
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Kidney Disease
Signs and Symptoms
Some of the most common oral symptoms of these diseases are:
- Red, swollen, bleeding, or receding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Ulcers
- Loose teeth
Tips for a Healthier Smile and Life
- Be Open. It’s important to tell your dentist about any changes in your overall health or medication. Some chronic illnesses and medication can directly influence your oral health — and your overall health.
- Eat Smart. Proper nutrition isn’t just important for a strong body, it’s also important for a healthy mouth. Eat balanced meals and try to avoid constant snacking.
- Drink Smart. Choose water as often as possible. Water naturally neutralizes acids, washes away bacteria, and stimulates saliva production, which also helps remove bacteria.
If you notice any changes in your oral health, schedule an appointment at my Alexandria dental office. We’ll assess your individual symptoms and talk about your health history to determine the best plan for you. It’s our job, and passion, to do everything we can to keep your mouth, and body, healthy for a lifetime.
Accepting patients from Alexandria, Old Towne, Delray, and Potomac Yard.
