Emergency Dentist Dedham - Find an Emergency Dentist

By: John Slater ... Click on author's name for more of their articles

Your dentist - a cornerstone of your health and well-being

Too often, we think of our oral health as separate from our overall health. In reality, the health of our teeth and gums is intertwined with the rest of our body. Your mouth is the main entrance to the body. Gums and teeth are linked to the digestive, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic and skeletal systems and the bloodstream. And they share the harmful organisms that cause disease. This is why your dentist is so important to your health and well-being. Your dentist is an expert in diagnosing and treating conditions of your teeth, gums and upper jaw and face - conditions that can impact your overall health. Most important, your dentist can help you prevent damaging and costly oral health problems from occurring in the first place.

Who's the most important member of your dental health team?

You! Even with the very best dental care, if you don't do your part, the health of your teeth and gums is at risk. Although personal dental hygiene practices differ depending on the general condition of your mouth and gums, the following four steps are crucial.

1. Brush your teeth after every meal, at least three times a day. Floss at least once a day.
2. Eat a well-balanced diet. Good nutrition helps you maintain healthy teeth.
3. Have your teeth examined and cleaned every six months - more if you have gum disease or other conditions that place you at greater risk of oral health problems.

7 health conditions your dentist may detect first

You might be surprised to know that a dentist is often the first person to spot a number of health conditions, including serious diseases like diabetes and heart disease. All told, more than 90 percent of the systemic diseases of the body are linked to symptoms in the mouth.

1. Red, sore, swollen gums of periodontitis (gum disease) are associated with heart disease and stroke.
2. Sore, pale gums indicate you may be anemic.
3. Bright red, spongy, inflamed gums that bleed easily can be a sign of leukemia.
4. Significant erosion of tooth enamel may signal of eating disorders, such as bulimia, or gastric conditions.
5. If air blowing on your gums makes them bleed, you may be pregnant.
6. Bad breath, dry mouth, bleeding gums and receding gums are often associated with diabetes.
7. White spots and sores that don't heal on your gums and other oral tissues can be signs of oral cancer.

What you should know before choosing a dentist

-Is the dentist covered by your dental insurance plan?
-Does the dentist perform the kinds of services you need? For example, you may want to find a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry or a pediatric dentist for your child.
-How are emergencies handled?
-Are the location and hours of the office convenient for you?
-How long is the wait for non-emergency appointments?
-What are the fees for typical services such as x-rays or a preventive dental appointment that includes an oral exam and teeth cleaning.?
-Are payment plans available?
-If you get butterflies in your stomach when thinking of going to the dental appointment, ask if the dentist specializes in working with patients who are nervous about dental procedures and if he or she offers nitrous oxide to help patients relax.