January 31, 2025
Why is dental care important for overall health?
Oral health is important for the health of the whole body. Not everyone is aware that tooth decay or gum and periodontal disease can contribute to the development of diabetes or heart disease. By making regular dental appointments and brushing and flossing at least twice a day, you not only look after your teeth, but also prevent serious health problems. In this article, we discuss the importance of dental care in more detail. Please read on.
Oral diseases and their impact on the body
Oral diseases have a direct impact on the health of the whole body. Caries, untreated gingivitis or periodontal disease can lead to the development of serious diseases. Bacteria found in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the body. They increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke.
People with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to dental problems. Chronic oral inflammation can make it difficult to control blood glucose levels, which contributes to exacerbating the disease. At the same time, high sugar levels promote the development of bacterial infections in the mouth.
Pregnant women should also pay special attention to their oral health. Untreated periodontal disease can contribute to the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. During pregnancy, hormonal changes take place that can exacerbate inflammation of the gums, which is why regular dental check-ups are extremely important. Taking care of oral health is an important part of general disease prevention.
Dental prophylaxis
It is important not only to treat oral diseases, but also to prevent them. Regular visits to the dentist make it possible to detect even small cavities, so that appropriate treatment to be implemented. Early intervention facilitates rapid treatment and minimises the risk of developing more serious conditions.
Daily teeth cleaning is an essential part of disease prevention. Removing bacterial plaque with a toothbrush prevents the development of tooth decay and inflammation of the gums. Poor hygiene can lead to the proliferation of bacteria, which can then enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in other areas of the body. A good brushing technique and regular flossing help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
A healthy diet is also important for oral health. Consuming excessive amounts of simple sugars promotes the growth of decay-causing bacteria. Eating products rich in calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D every day supports enamel mineralisation and strengthens teeth. A balanced diet also supports natural regeneration in the body.
Dental check-ups
Perfect Smile patients are encouraged to make appointments around every 6 months. This frequency will allow us to detect caries, gum disease, periodontal disease and other oral problems at an early stage. In some cases, such as an increased risk of periodontal disease, our dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
During a dental appointment, the dentist assesses the condition of the teeth, gums and oral mucosa. If deep decay is suspected, the dentist orders additional examinations, such as X-rays or CT scans of the mouth.
During preventive check-ups, our dentists also arrange hygiene appointments for patients. Removal of tartar and plaque is an important part of the prevention of gum and periodontal disease. These treatments should be carried out at least once a year, or more often if necessary. Tooth fluoridation, which is often part of a check-up, strengthens enamel and helps protect teeth from decay.
Summary
Untreated caries, periodontal or gum disease can lead to the development of inflammation in the mouth and thus contribute to the deterioration of overall health. In addition, this can also lead to the development of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even adversely affect foetal development. It is worth remembering to make regular appointments at our Perfect Smile clinic. Our dentists take an individual and comprehensive approach to each and every patient.
