As you get to your dental checkup, you will get the problem-free smile you deserve. Your dentist will make sure your teeth and gums are as healthy as they can be. One way you can help them give you the best care possible is by letting them know about your overall well-being. Certain health factors can affect your grin, so here are three you should tell your provider about.
1.) Any New Medications
There are certain medications that can cause dry mouth as a side effect. You won’t be able to produce adequate levels of saliva to wash away harmful bacteria. They will be able to linger for longer and have a greater chance to attack your smile and cause decay or gum disease. Simply let your dentist know if you started a new medicine; that way, they can better help you avoid any problems.
2.) Lifestyle Habits and Diet
There are some habits that can also impact your smile. Smoking or using tobacco can increase your risk of periodontal disease. That’s because they lead to dry mouth and affect your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight against infections. In all, they spell trouble for your teeth and gums, so you should consider quitting or reducing how often you partake.
Not only that, but your diet is also important. Sugary and acidic things can wear down your enamel. Be sure to eat balanced meals; that way, you give your body and mouth the nutrients and vitamins it needs to stay strong.
3.) Systemic Health Conditions
Diabetes and heart disease are a few systemic health conditions that can cause problems for you. They are often linked with oral health issues, like an infection in the soft tissues of your mouth. Not only that, but your body might have trouble fighting against bacteria attacking your teeth and gums, as it’s also dealing with other conditions in your being. By letting your provider know, you can learn more about how you can keep your grin in great shape.
In the end, it doesn’t hurt to let your dentist know any new things about your health. Doing so will give them the tools and information they need to see how they can keep your teeth problem-free. That way, they are just one less thing you have to worry about.
About the Practice
At Evergreen Dental, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Hannah Leezer and Dr. Ken Leezer. We are dedicated to helping the Indianapolis community get the stronger smiles they deserve with high-quality preventive care. By having routine checkups, we can make sure there aren’t any red flags or take them off before they cause bigger problems later. If you are due for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (317) 284-1850.