Unlike other dentists, we understand and acknowledge the ways oral health affects the rest of the body. For example, did you know that people with diabetes are at higher risk for gum disease? This is just one of the many reasons why oral health shouldn’t be overlooked. Continue reading to learn how complete health dentistry can make a difference in your life.
Total Body Health
Our dentists focus on protecting the entire health of the patient. This means examining your teeth, gums, and jaw for what could indicate larger problems with your health. For example, worn tooth enamel could indicate nighttime teeth grinding or an eating disorder. Our dentists act like detectives to see the bigger picture with your health.
Preventive Dental Care
It’s not enough for your dentist to simply react to gum disease and tooth decay. Ask your dentist during your next appointment what they’re doing to protect your oral health. If you’re not satisfied with their answer, schedule an appointment with one of our dentists. We practice preventive dentistry so you can maintain a healthy smile.
Our preventive dentistry services include:
- Teeth cleanings
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental sealants
- Dental x-rays
- Oral exams
- Oral cancer screenings
- Periodontal treatment
- Modular periodontal therapy
- Healthy Start Program
Mitigating Risk Factors
Your risk factors for disease are based on age, lifestyle, and genetics. Since we practice complete health dentistry, we take the time to explain how different risk factors could compromise oral health. For example, those who smoke are at increased risk for oral cancer. If you have a history of using tobacco, we’d recommend routine oral cancer screenings.
During each appointment, our dentist will discuss ways you can improve your oral health. For example, scaling and root planing can help mitigate the damaging effects of advanced gum disease. Likewise, your dentist may recommend a mouth guard if you play contact sports.
Treating Patients of All Ages
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease for American children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fortunately, our dentists provide dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and other ways to prevent cavities. We always try to save as much natural tooth structure as possible, which is why we take dental x-rays to catch cavities in their early stages.
Our dentists understand that your oral health needs change as you get older. According to the CDC, 47.2% of Americans age 30 and older have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease attacks your gums and can contribute to tooth loss.
Since we practice complete health dentistry, we know that researchers have discovered a connection between advanced gum disease and heart disease. Heart disease has been shown to worsen if gum-borne bacteria enters the bloodstream. It’s important that you have a dentist that understands how your oral health affects the rest of your body. Otherwise, you could risk missing the warning signs of a serious condition.
We’re always accepting new patients! To request an appointment with one of our Grand Rapids dentists, call Complete Health Dentistry at (616) 458-7267.
