As a general and family dentist, I try to stress the importance of having good oral health as much as possible to my patients. It’s clear that maintaining quality oral health is essential to optimal wellness and overall health.
The month of May is National Stroke Awareness Month, so it’s the perfect time to discuss why keeping your mouth healthy is so important.
In addition to being linked to health issues like tooth loss, osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s, gum disease is a leading risk factor for strokes.
According to a recent survey, one in six people experience a dental emergency every year. Some emergencies happen when the dentist’s office is open. However, many emergencies happen on vacation, after hours, or over the weekend. Should you experience a dental emergency when your dentist’s office is closed, these helpful first-aid tips may help until you can see the dentist:
Maintaining proper oral care may be difficult for patients with dementia. Researchers conducted several studies showing the connection of periodontal disease with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. To maintain proper oral health, the American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, rinsing after meals, and visiting the dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and check up.
Strokes result from impaired oxygen delivery to brain cells from the bloodstream. Bloodflow can be compromised from a blockage of an artery, a blood clot, or a cerebral hemorrhage. Common risk factors for strokes are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking. However, recent studies have linked periodontal disease and sleep apnea to stroke.
Headaches inhibit daily activities. They range from annoying to debilitating, and can be chronic While difficult to find the cause of headaches, doctors can research a patient’s stress, diet, genetics, and lifestyle to find clues. If you suffer from chronic, severe headaches, and/or migraines, you may want to consult your dentist. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD, also referred to as TMJ) could be to blame.
People seek out cosmetic dentists to achieve the smile of their dreams. One of the most sought after treatments is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening products can be purchased over-the-counter. However, they are no match for teeth whitening treatments from a dentist.
Treatments, procedures, and technology constantly change throughout the dental world. Scientists research and develop products to assist dentists in providing safe, comfortable, and even natural-looking treatments for their patients.
I’m Corbet Locke, a Waco general and sedation dentist. Lately I have been focusing on major issues like gum disease, tooth pain, and sleep apnea in the blog. A common phrase often quoted is, “Thank God it’s Friday!” So for my readers who have had a stressful week, I thought I would lighten the mood and help you start off a great weekend with a few fun dental facts:
Spring brings the season of fresh fruits and vegetables. Nutritionists, doctors, and dentists strongly encourage people to eat plenty of nutritious foods to take advantage of their many health benefits. Strawberries, in particular, are powerful fruits to integrate into your daily diet.
April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Researchers have found that people who suffer from severe periodontal disease double the risk of having pre-cancerous lesions and have four times greater risk of developing an oral tumor. Surviving oral cancer, like most cancers, depends on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. If periodontal disease is diagnosed and treated, the risk of oral cancer decreases.