You have probably heard the research – gum disease leads to many serious health conditions. In reality, gum disease can have a negative impact on nearly every system in the body.
- Heart disease
- Alzheimer’s
- Diabetes
- Increased risk of certain cancers (especially in older women)
- Erectile dysfunction because of reduced testosterone
- Respiratory illnesses
- Premature births
Simply put, periodontal (gum) disease puts your health and life at risk because it causes chronic inflammation. Any active infection within the body has negative consequences.
Why Prevention Is Essential
Your dentist plays an active role in the health of your entire family. For many, there seems to be a disconnect between overall health and oral health, as if the mouth is separate from the body. Perhaps this is due to the dentist/doctor separation. You can think of it like this: Your dentist is a doctor who specializes in oral health.
Dentists encourage patients to maintain their routine exams and cleanings because it can reduce the number of serious oral health conditions you face throughout your lifetime. Early detection is the key to a healthy mouth and to avoiding advanced gum disease.
Dental exams and cleanings every six months make it possible for Dr. Scott Jordan to alert you to anything that might be a concern. Diagnostic x-rays are an important part of a comprehensive exam because trouble could be brewing beneath your enamel where it’s not visible.
A small investment of time and money into prevention and early detection could save thousands of dollars over a lifetime. With today’s modern dentistry treatments, it is actually possible to maintain a healthy and attractive smile for your entire life.
If you want an Encinitas dentist who is both gentle and experienced, we welcome you and look forward to helping you feel great about your smile. Give us a call!