The importance of dental care in our society is often overlooked, but is still essential to our overall health. Inequities in dental care are prevalent, and disadvantaged groups are disproportionately affected. Dental care advocates use maxims like “putting the mouth back in the body.” Yet, the historical and structural separation of dental and medical systems highlights the illogicity of this arrangement. During the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the medical and dental systems responded to the outbreak in different ways. In fact, 90 percent of dental practices closed.
Dental hygienists provide preventive care
A Westminster dental care is a professional who helps people maintain and improve oral health. They perform routine cleanings to prevent oral diseases and promote good dental health. They also educate patients about proper nutrition and how it can affect the health of the mouth. They play an important role in early detection of diseases and provide education for patients on the importance of dental care. Hygienists are vital members of the health care team.
Hygienists may also work in educational settings, dental clinics, or as consultants and researchers. Their role is expanding and their practice is growing. Currently, dental hygienists work under the supervision of a dentist. In some states, however, they are allowed to practice independently. They may be able to provide treatment at the request of a dentist, as long as they meet certain requirements.
Gum disease causes heart disease
Dental care is essential to maintaining a person’s overall health and wellbeing. Without regular dental care, gingivitis or periodontitis may result. In addition to being painful, periodontitis is linked to heart disease and stroke. If left untreated, bacterial infections can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to the heart valves. Additionally, poor dental health can lead to other chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Dental professionals are at the forefront of dentistry’s evolution, and have long been at the helm. In the face of global crisis, they advocated for its necessity. Today’s dental professionals are in a unique position to ensure access to affordable, equitable care. However, this position requires support from their medical colleagues. The COVID-19 pandemic provides an opportunity for a rethinking of dental care models and scope of practice.
Diabetes reduces resistance to infection
Diabetic patients should tell their dentist about their condition so that they can ensure they are taken care of properly. This includes regular dental checkups and oral hygiene procedures. Diabetes can decrease a patient’s resistance to infection and slow down the healing process. Regular dental checkups will reduce the risk of developing oral diseases and complications. In addition, diabetic patients should avoid sugary and starchy foods and drink as little as possible. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day with fluoride toothpaste will help keep the mouth healthy. Diabetic patients should also use floss and interdental cleaner regularly.
Diabetics should inform their dentist about any other medical conditions they may have. A blood sugar test may be needed during dental treatment, and they should inform the dentist about any medication they take. Certain dental drugs can interfere with diabetes control, so it is important to bring a list of all medications. People with diabetes have a lower resistance to infection and can be more difficult to heal, so the dentist may prescribe antibiotics or change their diet.
Signs to see a dentist
One of the biggest signs you need to see a dentist is tooth pain. Although this is not a life threatening emergency, a toothache should be treated as soon as possible. Even if the pain is slight, it should not be ignored. If it does not go away after a few days, it is a sign you need to see a dentist right away. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to lessen the pain.
First, you need to see a dentist if you experience any of the following symptoms. Bleeding gums are an indication that your gums are receding. You should visit a dentist if this occurs more than once a week. If the sores do not go away after a week, they should be treated right away. This could be a sign of a serious infection or even cancer.