A family dentist is essential for maintaining optimum oral health, but did you know your dentist can also help detect other serious health issues? A dental exam can uncover a wide variety of health problems, which is why keeping up on appointments is so important. Ed Struss Family Dentistry of Lexington, KY, offers the following insight into how your dental team can help boost your overall health along with your smile.

Your Family Dentist Can Help Identify These 3 Issues

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a common disorder that causes pain and swelling within the jaw. While it can have many causes, one of them is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Affecting the body’s immune system, this type of arthritis targets joints—even those within the jaw. If you experience a sudden onset of jaw pain or stiffness with no underlying cause, it could point to an issue with RA. 

2. Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a very serious issue. Much like many other types of cancers, detecting oral cancer early offers the best chance of successful treatment. This is why many dentists are incorporating cancer screenings into routine exams. Some types of oral cancers can be aggressive, which means early detection is a must in order for a patient to receive the right treatment.

3. Diabetes

Since diabetes symptoms can sometimes present orally, a trip to the dentist can be extremely helpful in diagnosing this condition. For instance, dry mouth is a common symptom, and lack of saliva can actually increase rates of tooth decay. People with diabetes also experience gum disease at higher rates. If you experience a range of dental issues along with other diabetic symptoms, you may want to pay a visit to your doctor.

Whether you’re in need of a routine teeth cleaning or require a root canal, the team at Ed Struss Family Dentistry offers effective oral care solutions in a kind and compassionate manner. Benefit from more than three decades of dental experience by calling (859) 278-7434 today. You can also learn more about this Lexington family dentist by visiting their website.