Opening your mouth during a dental checkup reveals a great deal about your general health and well-being.  Your teeth and gums can tell the story of your overall health to a trained eye.  Loose teeth, for example,  may point to osteoporosis; cavities and gum disease may signal underlying heart disease or diabetes; a scalloped tongue may point to obstructive sleep apnea.  A large number of systemic conditions like heart disease are linked to symptoms in the mouth and since most people only see their physician for a checkup once a year, your dentist may be the one to pick up on new health concerns.

Beyond picking up existing conditions that may affect you, regular dental checkups and  hygiene appointments can help prevent many of these problems.  Oral bacteria from gum infections have been shown to travel to many parts of the body – affecting the heart and other organs.  For pregnant women regular dental checkups and cleanings are a must.  The bacteria in the mouth have  been found in amniotic fluid and may affect birth weight and pre-term birth.

Diabetes patients are at risk on several levels.  Blood sugar levels and oral sugar levels  are linked.  Oral bacteria thrive on sugar and high levels lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.  Unfortunately diabetes lowers patients’ resistance to infection so treating gum disease in diabetic patients is more difficult.  Blood sugar levels are more easily maintained in patients who do not suffer from active periodontal disease.

While your Columbus cosmetic dentist, Dr. Mark Levy is screening you for new cavities and possible gum problems, he will also be looking for mouth sores, loss of the bone that supports the teeth and signs of oral cancer.

Regular dental checkups and hygiene appointments are an important part of your overall health routine.  By preventing problems before they start and through early detection of underlying health issues – regular visits with Dr. Levy can save your health care dollars and save your health.

If regular dental checkups are not already part of your health-care routine please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Columbus, Ohio cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Levy and his team welcome new patients.  Please let us know if you have questions regarding your dental care and any underlying medical issues.  If you have been avoiding regular dental care because of fear we offer sedation dentistry that allows you to get the treatment you need without anxiety – ask about your options.