Health Benefits of Going to the Dentist
Going to the dentist regularly can have several health benefits. For one, regular checkups can help reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other ailments. Moreover, regular dental care can help detect early signs of oral cancer. In addition, Professional dentist in Eugene OR will ensure that your teeth are in good shape. In fact, a healthy set of teeth can improve your self-confidence and overall well-being.
Regular dental visits reduce risk of heart attack
Regular dental visits may lower your risk of heart attack, a study says. The lining of the heart, known as the endocardium, is vulnerable to infections caused by bacteria that cause periodontal disease. This inflammation can affect the heart’s muscles and valves. This infection is particularly dangerous for people with cardiovascular problems. The bacteria can enter the bloodstream through improper oral hygiene and dental procedures.
The study evaluated 247,696 Korean adults aged 40 and older who completed an oral health screening programme. Participants were followed for a median of 9.5 years. During that time, almost 15,000 heart events occurred. Adults with cavities, gum disease, or missing teeth had higher rates of cardiovascular events.
Reduce risk of stroke
Studies have shown that regular dental visits can reduce your risk of stroke. According to a recent study, dentist visits can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 23%. The study looked at data from a large population and examined how people treated their dental health. The researchers divided people into those who had regular dental care and those who had dental emergencies. Those who had regular dental visits had a 23% lower risk of stroke than those who had emergency dental care. This study is not without its limitations, though.
In the study, half of all heart attacks occurred in women and 30% were in people under age 50. The study’s authors believe that these results should be taken with a grain of salt, because the association between inflammation and atherosclerosis is tenuous. The researchers did not collect enough data to confirm a connection between inflammation and stroke, but they do note that the findings suggest that dental visits may reduce the risk of stroke.
Eliminate stank breath
While there are a number of factors that contribute to bad breath, dental visits should be a regular part of your oral hygiene routine. Regular dental cleanings and exams will eliminate bacteria that cause stank breath. Your dentist can also perform various tests to determine the exact cause of the problem.
Bad breath usually stems from the mouth. Bacteria in the mouth live on food particles, which get stuck in the teeth. As these particles sit in the mouth, the bacteria begin to grow and release sulfur compounds. These compounds can cause a foul breath and should be addressed immediately.
Detect early signs of oral cancer
A visit to the dentist can help you detect early signs of oral cancer. The dentist will examine you to look for sores, lumps, and irregular tissue changes. They may recommend further testing or even refer you to an oral surgeon. If a sore is persistent or does not heal within two weeks, it is a possible sign of oral cancer. The dentist will also check the roof of your mouth and throat for any changes.
Visiting the dentist regularly is essential to detect early symptoms of oral cancer. The dentist will check for signs and symptoms, which can include red or white patches on the lips or tongue, and bleeding sores that do not heal. A dentist will also check for lumps and hard spots. If a patient is experiencing pain or numbness in the mouth, this may also be a sign of oral cancer. During the examination, your dentist will also check for any abnormalities in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.