For many years, dentistry and medicine have been treated as separate areas of healthcare. We visit the dentist for our teeth and gums and our doctor for the rest of our body.
But the mouth is part of the body – and increasingly, healthcare professionals are recognising the importance of looking at oral and general health together.
At Centennial Park Dental, we believe in putting the mouth back into the body and taking a broader approach to dental care.
Your mouth can tell us more than you might think
A dental examination isn’t simply about checking for cavities.
Dentists examine the teeth, gums and soft tissues of the mouth, but we also consider your medical history, medications, lifestyle, diet and other factors that may influence your oral health.
Changes within the mouth can sometimes be associated with changes elsewhere in the body. Equally, medical conditions and their treatments can have significant effects on the mouth. This relationship works in both directions
Gum health and inflammation
One of the clearest examples is gum disease.
Gum disease develops when plaque bacteria accumulate around the teeth and gums. In its early stages, this can cause gingivitis – gums that may become red, swollen or bleed when brushing.
If inflammation progresses deeper around the supporting structures of the teeth, it can develop into periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition and has been extensively studied in relation to wider health.
Researchers have investigated associations between periodontal disease and conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Importantly, an association does not necessarily mean that gum disease directly causes these conditions.
What it does reinforce is the importance of viewing oral health as part of overall health rather than something completely separate.
Diabetes and oral health
The relationship between diabetes and gum disease is particularly important.
People with poorly controlled diabetes can be at greater risk of developing periodontal disease, while significant periodontal inflammation may make diabetes management more challenging.
This is one reason why regular dental and periodontal care can be especially important for people living with diabetes.
It also highlights why your dentist needs to know about your medical history and any changes to your health.
Pregnancy and oral health
Pregnancy is another time when looking after your gums becomes particularly important.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more susceptible to inflammation, meaning they may become swollen or bleed more easily.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and continuing appropriate dental and hygiene appointments during pregnancy can help keep the mouth healthy.
Medications can affect your mouth too
Many commonly prescribed medications can affect oral health.
Some can reduce saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in protecting teeth, so persistent dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral problems.
Other medications or medical treatments may affect the gums, healing, bleeding or how we safely provide dental treatment.
This is why we ask patients to keep their medical history and medication information up to date.
Prevention is about more than preventing fillings
Modern preventive dentistry should consider the whole person.
That includes:
- brushing effectively twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- cleaning between the teeth
- maintaining healthy gums
- reducing the frequency of sugary foods and drinks
- avoiding smoking
- attending dental examinations and hygiene appointments at intervals appropriate for you
- discussing changes to your general health or medication with your dentist.
Regular dental care gives us an opportunity not simply to treat problems, but to identify risks early and help prevent disease.
Putting the mouth back into the body
Ultimately, there shouldn’t be a dividing line between dental health and general health.
Your mouth is part of you.
At Centennial Park Dental in Elstree, our approach is to understand our patients as a whole. That means considering dental health alongside medical history, lifestyle, diet and individual risk factors to provide personalised, preventative care.
Good oral health isn’t simply about having attractive teeth. It is an important part of staying healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can gum disease affect general health?
Periodontal disease is associated with several systemic health conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The relationship is complex, however, and an association does not necessarily mean that one condition directly causes another.
Why does my dentist need my medical history?
Medical conditions and medications can affect your teeth, gums, saliva, healing and the safety or suitability of certain dental treatments.
How often should I have a dental check-up?
There isn’t one interval that is appropriate for everybody. Your dentist can recommend a recall interval based on your individual oral health and risk factors.
Can I visit the dentist during pregnancy?
Yes. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is important, and your dental team can advise you on appropriate care throughout pregnancy.
