Many people think of oral health as somehow separate from overall health. When you consider how we’re taught to focus on preventing cavities and periodontal (gum) disease by brushing and flossing regularly – and visiting the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and examination – it’s easy to see how this division occurs. Of course, there’s also the fact that we visit a physician for our overall health and a dentist for our oral health!

However, our teeth, gums, jawbone and related oral structures are all part of us, just as much as our organs, bones, muscles and skin. For this reason, neglecting your oral health will eventually have a detrimental effect on your overall health. According to  Mayo Clinic , problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body. “Like other areas of the body, your mouth teems with bacteria – mostly harmless. But your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.”

As our blog post – “  Common Dental Health Myths ” – points out, there are many correlations between mouth and body. A mouth with severe tooth decay and periodontal disease (which can start with an untreated cavity, as well as a buildup of plaque) is more likely to cause bacteria to enter into the bloodstream and result in other serious health issues.

Studies have found a link between periodontal disease and heart disease, diabetes, cancer and more.  Colgate and  Absolute Dental provide this list of the conditions that periodontal disease can cause or exacerbate:

As a  Healthline article so succinctly puts it, “Even if you’re cavity-free and have the pearliest chompers in town, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to gum disease. Since it’s usually painless, most people have no idea that anything is wrong with their gums.” So while you may think of people who develop periodontal disease as having “bad teeth” or unhygienic habits, the progress can be well along before you notice symptoms. In other words, don’t assume you’re safe if you brush your teeth three times a day! Our blog post – “  Types of Gum Disease ” – covers this topic in detail, including how it starts, symptoms, risk factors, treatment and prevention.

Following a healthy lifestyle is key to achieving good overall and oral health! A poor diet is bad for both. Our blog post – “  The Best And Worst Foods For A Healthy Smile ” – covers the importance of a well-balanced, nutritious diet in supplying the nutrients that the body, bones, teeth and gums need to renew tissues and help fight infection and disease — including periodontal disease.

Following good oral hygiene practices is essential, and must be done consistently to be effective. The  American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice daily – although once after every meal is better, as well as after a snack, if possible.

Last, but definitely not least,  your dentist is your partner in achieving and maintaining optimum health! Schedule  twice-yearly examinations and cleanings – more, if your dentist advises in order to monitor a condition. Regular examinations allow the dentist to observe changes or conditions that need treatment before they become critical, and removes plaque that brushing alone can’t accomplish.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our  financing page for more information.

At  24/7 Local Dentist , it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and  periodontal services . Our dental specialists include our general dentist,  Dr. Nilofer Khan , our endodontist,  Dr. Sabek , and our periodontist,  Dr. Amir Danesh . Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the  American Board of Periodontology . He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the  neighborhoods of  Logan Square , Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the  Best Dentist in Chicago !