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We’ve all been told that a healthy smile requires you to brush, floss, and see a dentist regularly, but the real impact of your oral health on your overall wellness goes much further than you might think. In fact, more and more research is showing that periodontal disease could be linked to other serious conditions such as, heart disease, dementia and more!

Dr Josh X. Liu, an American dentist at expatdental®, knows first-hand how oral health can impact wellness. In 2012, when his dad required open heart surgery, he was asked to clear his father dentally before a heart valve replacement procedure. This is because bacteria in the mouth can travel to other parts of the body and cause an infection, such as endocarditis in the heart. Since then Dr. Josh has been deeply passionate about educating his patients on the mouth-body connection and how prevention is key.

What health concerns can come with poor oral health?

What is periodontal (or gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammation in the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place. Gum disease is common and typically occurs when you don’t have a good daily dental routine. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque (which is a sticky  film of bacteria) can build up on the teeth and harden. Once it hardens, you usually need a hygienist and/or dentist to remove it.

If your gums are swollen, red or tender and bleed easily, you should visit a dentist to address any gingivitis and/or periodontitis. The longer you wait, the more likely the disease will progress where gums can recede, and bone and teeth can be lost. And the worse your periodontal disease, the greater risk you could be putting on your overall wellness.

How common is periodontal disease?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 47 percent of people aged 30 years and older in the United States have some form of periodontal disease.

Preventative dental care is often cheap – procedures are not!

We know that one of the reasons people don’t see a dentist is cost. But keeping up with your regular dental visits and daily oral care can help prevent expensive procedures down the line.

“If you have dental insurance through your work, that can be really helpful. But more often than not, privately bought insurance isn’t worth it. Make sure to check the yearly limits, waiting time, and provider lists. I recommend saving a small monthly budget for dental care so you don’t have to feel that you’re choosing between your finances and your health – and remember that it truly can impact your overall wellness!” says, Dr. Josh.

Want to check your oral health? Book an appointment with an international team of dentists in Singapore.

About expatdental®

  • Internationally trained & certified dental team
  • Transparent pricing. No surprises
  • A Dental Warranty. See website for full details

 

Book online at expatdental.com
WhatsApp +65 9656 0697
Call +65 6816 5742

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