How General Dentistry Checkups Can Improve Your Overall Health

How General Dentistry Checkups Can Improve Your Overall Health from Laurel Smile Dentistry in Oakland, CAGeneral dentistry checkups provide an opportunity for patients to know the condition of their oral health and receive prompt care for any concerns the dentist may detect. One additional benefit of dental checkups that often gets overlooked is improved overall health and a reduced risk of certain common health conditions.

An overview of the overall health benefits of general dentistry checkups

Regular dental checkups have been linked to a reduced risk of developing health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and premature births. The following is an overview of the benefits dental checkups provide for oral health as well as overall health:

What is the purpose of a dental checkup?

A dental checkup is a routinely scheduled dental visit that offers the dentist an opportunity to examine if there have been any changes in the patient’s oral health, such as the early development of gum disease or worn-down tooth enamel. They can address these concerns promptly and in a less invasive manner when detected early. In most cases, the general dentist or hygienist also cleans the patient’s teeth and gums on the same visit. Dental checkups are encouraged once every four to six months.

How can dental checkups improve oral health?

Dental checkups can improve oral health by the early detection of the most common concerns related to teeth and gums, which include worn-down tooth enamel, cavities, signs of bruxism, gum disease, and oral infections. The dental professional can promptly treat these concerns before they worsen.

How can dental checkups improve overall health?

Dental checkups can improve general health by reducing the risk of a range of common health concerns. This is particularly done by reducing the risk of gum disease. Some studies have indicated that there is a higher risk of certain health concerns among people with gum disease. Among the health concerns are:

  • Diabetes
  • Stroke
  • Heart disease

The increased risk of these conditions is believed to be due to inflammation. Gum disease is believed to increase the amount of inflammation throughout the body, which makes conditions involving blood flow — such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease — more likely.

What can I expect during a general dentistry checkup?

The good news is that dental checkups and cleanings can help reduce the risk of gum disease. This type of visit is usually quick and non-invasive. It involves an oral examination, during which the dentist thoroughly examines the patient’s mouth. Dental x-rays may also be necessary. At the end of the visit, the dentist can recommend a cleaning or more extensive treatment if necessary.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Oakland, CA

Schedule your next general dentistry checkup today

Our general dentistry practice offers dental checkup visits for new and existing patients. If it has been over six months since the last time you visited a dentist or if you have specific concerns that have developed since your last visit, get started today by calling us to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment or call Laurel Smile Dentistry at 510-530-3317 for an appointment in our Oakland office.

Related Posts

Tips For Choosing A General Dentistry Office

Looking for a general dentistry office? Read on to learn some tips on how to find the right one for you. It is important to find a general dentist that you are comfortable with and trust. The convenience of their location and the services they offer should also play a role in your decision, along…

What Diseases Can A General Dentistry Checkup Detect?

People visit the general dentistry office because they desire healthy oral cavities, free of cavities. However, a checkup can show more than cavities. Dentists do not only perform dental cleanings and restorations. They also examine the mouth for present or potential health issues so patients can take appropriate precautions to avoid them or get them…

A General Dentistry Overview Of Dental Veneers

General dentistry focuses on preventative treatments, but it includes using dental cosmetics like veneers to restore or enhance the appearance of teeth. A veneer is a tooth-shaped restoration that is cemented to the front part of a tooth. It covers up any imperfections, damages, or deformities on that part of the tooth. Veneers started out…