According to surveys, 1 in 3 Americans skips an annual visit to the dentist. And, even fewer receive the biannual appointments recommended by the American Dental Association. If you have been skipping dental appointments, you may be surprised to learn that trips to the dentist are potentially tooth and life- saving.
While filling cavities and polishing teeth are aspects of dentistry, holistic dental practices impact your entire body. At Bowen Legacy Dental, we are passionate about promoting whole-body wellness—not just polishing your smile! Read on to find out how a visit with Dr. Gehlert and Dr. Bowen can set you up for a lifetime of better health:
1. Dental visits help manage oral bacteria.
There are up to 700 different kinds of bacteria that can be found in mouths—some of which can travel through your bloodstream to other parts of your body. While not all kinds of bacteria are harmful, some produce enamel-eroding acid and contribute to gum inflammation and periodontal disease. Plaque is one kind of ever-growing bacteria that can eventually harden into tartar—a substance only removable by professionals. Regular dental cleanings, alongside preventative at-home care, keep oral bacteria under control. This minimizes your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health issues.
2. Gum disease is linked to serious health problems.
Shockingly, studies show that nearly 50% of adults over 30 and 70% of adults over 65 have some form of periodontal disease. In recent years, illuminating studies have linked advanced gum disease to health issues, including Alzheimer’s, lung disease, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. If you have poor periodontal health, our team of experts can help you fight your gum disease. From providing you with gum-friendly nutritional information to offering gentle in-office treatments, Dr. Bowen and Dr. Gehlert will help you maintain excellent periodontal health—and by extension, promote total-body wellness.
3. Airway issues spell disaster for physical and mental health.
Millions of Americans suffer from untreated airway problems—especially sleep-related airway issues. These problems can lead to dozens of health concerns, ranging from snoring, depression, and fatigue, to weight gain, heart disease, and worn teeth. With prompt diagnosis and intervention, many of these symptoms resolve themselves. At Bowen Legacy Dental, we examine our patients’ airways and mouths at each appointment to ensure healthy breathing and sleep. A simple oral sleep appliance can often transform a patient’s quality of life. For pediatric patients, this is especially important. When highly treatable airway issues are left untreated, they can impact a child’s development, mimic symptoms of ADD/ADHD, and cause behavioral problems.
4. Adult tooth loss is linked to lower life expectancy.
Did you know that the amount of teeth an adult patient has is linked with how long they will live? Unfortunately, adult tooth loss is very common, despite being preventable. When you visit us, our experts can help you create a plan for your healthiest smile—including practicing good oral hygiene habits and living a healthy, nutritional, and active lifestyle. With holistic and thorough preventive dentistry, you can enjoy a long and healthful life with your best smile.
Ready to experience the Bowen Legacy Dental difference?
After a visit to Bowen Legacy Dental, you’ll smile with confidence, enjoying your beautiful teeth and whole-body health. If you are ready to kickstart your journey to wellness, call us today to book your biannual appointment.
