Making the Most of a Dental Visit

Online, May 23, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Dentists can detect early signs of cancers of the mouth. These types of cancers are oftentimes treatable when discovered in their early stages. That is just one of the serious health conditions related to oral health that dentists can identify. A little time spent learning about the links between oral health and overall physical health in preparation for a visit to the dentist can help to give more health advantages.

Gum Disease: A Serious Health Threat

It may sound trivial, but gum disease can significantly affect one's overall well-being. Recent research indicates that gum disease actually contributes to heart disease and other dangerous lung ailments. Regular brushing and flossing go a long way toward preventing gum disease, or what dentists call periodontal disease. Chemotherapy, a common treatment for cancer, is also hard on gums.

Dentists Help Keep Children Healthy

Every mother is a veteran of the toothbrush wars. But there are other important ways to help children prevent tooth and gum problems. Kids snack a lot. They have access to foods at school that you may not be allowed at home. Bottled water (without fluoride) and sports drinks (high levels of sugar) are also a threat to the teeth of growing children. An educated conversation with a child's dentist is a great way to set priorities in the home, and feel confident about making the right choices for children.

Mouth Watering? Or Mouth Drying?

Food choices aren't the only contributors to tooth decay. Some medications, unrelated to oral health, can create poor conditions for teeth. Normally, saliva bathes teeth constantly, neutralizing food acids and providing important proteins. Medications that cause dry mouth reduce the protection teeth receive from saliva. Again, dentists know about these medications and can provide. guidance in developing a method that works to overcome dangers to the teeth. Be sure to share information about new medications being taken with a dentist.

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Dental & Vision Extras (www.dentalandvisionextras.com) is a joint venture of The Dental Care Plus Group and Total Vision Services.

The Dental Care Plus Group is the largest dental carrier in the Greater
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area with expanding operations throughout Kentucky and Ohio. For more information, visit www.dentalcareplus.com.

Total Vision Services, based in Cincinnati, offers both insured and noninsured vision benefits through a nationwide network of providers. For more information, visit www.totalvisioncare.com.