5 Ways Your Dentist Can Improve Your Health
You go to the dentist for a cleaning and check-up twice a year, but did you know that your dentist can also help improve your overall health? Believe it or not, there are several ways in which your dentist can help keep you healthy. In this blog post, we will discuss five of them. Keep reading to learn more!
Treating Sleep Apnea. Many dentists are trained in treating sleep apnea, and they’re an excellent resource if you have this condition. It is a common problem that causes people to stop breathing as they fall asleep. People with untreated sleep apnea may not get a restful night’s sleep.
If you have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, Dr. Custer can create a customized orthotic for you to wear to sleep at night. A mouthguard holds your jaw in the ideal position to keep your airway open throughout the night. This can also reduce the risk factors for additional health issues that sleep apnea often raises.
Managing Stress. Dentists can also help to lower stress levels. When people are stressed, they often grind their teeth at night. This can cause tooth damage and lead to headaches.
On the other hand, poor dental hygiene may generate a lot of anxiety, especially if you go to your dentist for frequent treatments. You can assist in alleviating or even entirely removing that source of tension when your mouth is in good shape.
Protect You From Respiratory Illnesses. You might inhale germs from your teeth regularly. Periodontitis, for example, is an extreme form of gum disease that can cause you to breathe in germs. These bacteria make it into your lungs and may lead to health issues.
Taking great care of your oral health at home is the first step. Visiting Dr. Custer regularly to catch issues like gum disease and cavities early can keep the number of bacteria in your mouth under control and help protect you from these types of illnesses.
Reduce Your Risks of Suffering from Health Issues Like Strokes or Cardiovascular Disease. It’s well known that heart disease and strokes are two leading causes of death in the United States. However, did you know that your oral health can play a role in your risk for these conditions?
Oral bacteria can make their way into your bloodstream, causing a wide range of health issues throughout your body. The good news is that by keeping your teeth and gums healthy, you can significantly reduce your risk of suffering from a stroke or heart attack.
Help in Detecting Oral Cancer Early. Every six months, going to the dentist for a preventative dental cleaning is necessary to avoid or detect problems like periodontitis and cavities. Oral cancer is a serious disease, and it’s important to catch it early if you do have it. Because of this, Dr. Custer takes the time to look for any abnormalities in your mouth that could be signs of oral cancer. Early detection can save your life.
While it may appear odd that your dentist can benefit your overall health, this is 100 percent true. Every aspect of your body is linked; some parts affect other areas in unexpected ways. Archbold Family Dental is ideally suited to keep an eye on the interconnected components of your oral and general health. Are you ready to start your oral health journey? Contact us to schedule an appointment!