Oral health and general health go hand in hand. You’d be surprised at the number of bodily illnesses that Rachel E. Gold of Total Health Dentistry in Cold Spring, KY, can diagnose during routine dental exams. In fact, many patients have been referred to their general physicians based on what she’s found during their oral exams, and some of these patients have discovered that they have a more serious illness. These ties between oral health and general health are considered "oral systemic links."

For instance, periodontal disease (gum disease) has been linked to both heart and pulmonary disease. An inflamed mouth could be a sign of heart disease or oral cancer, and an infected tooth can zap energy from your whole body! Yet when the infection has been treated, your energy returns. Interesting, right?

You can help take control of your oral health by changing some bad habits and making some wise dietary choices. For instance, making the following changes can make a huge difference:

• Get The Right Type of Toothbrush: Use an ADA (American Dental Association)-approved soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid irritating your gums.
• Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Stop using your teeth as tools for opening bags—use scissors instead.
• Stop Night Grinding: Get fitted for a mouth guard to wear at night to curb your teeth grinding.
• Change Your Eating Habits: Limit snacking and sipping on acidic foods throughout the day, both of which erode your teeth’s enamel and cause cavities. Drinking plenty of water during the day also helps!

Good habits and regular dental care can help you prevent problems or catch them early enough to treat. For more information on how Rachel E. Gold can help or for a complete list of services, including veneers, dental implants and tooth fillings, visit Total Health Dentistry online or give them a call at (859) 441-1230.