Trips to the dentist offer multiple health benefits, experts claim
It’s natural to assume that going to the dentist improves your oral health, but leading experts have claimed that a dental check can flag up far more than signs of gum disease and cavities. Bupa Dental Care’s clinical director, Eddie Coyle, claims that going to the dentist can have multiple benefits for your health, as dentists are trained to spot the warning signs of a host of different illnesses.
Dentists recommend going for a routine check at least once a year, but studies show that 1 in 10 people haven’t been to the dentist in over 5 years. If you’re avoiding the dentist, you may be putting yourself at risk of decay and gum disease, but there are lots of other reasons to attend dental checks.
Mr Coyle urged patients who haven’t seen a dentist in the last 6-12 months to consider making an appointment in a bid to improve both their dental and general health. Signs of gum disease, such as swelling and bleeding in the gums can be symptomatic of heart disease, and if a dentist suspects that there may be a link, carrying out further tests could prove incredibly beneficial. Research suggests that harmful bacteria in the mouth can increase the risk of inflammation in other parts of the body, increasing the chances of strokes and heart attacks.
Dental symptoms can also be linked to diabetes, a condition that affects around 5 million people in the UK. If a dentist spots signs such as worn enamel, sore and swollen gums and loose teeth, this may prompt them to advise the patient to undergo tests for diabetes. Diabetes is often caused by a diet high in sugar and a high BMI, and signs like acid erosion can indicate an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes are not always easy to spot and the disease can go undetected for long periods of time. If untreated, it can cause severe, long-term damage to the internal organs, as well as affecting dental health and vision.
Join this Discussion