Your dentist can be a cornerstone of your health and well-being

Too often, we think of our oral health as separate from our overall health. In reality, the health of our teeth and gums is intertwined with the rest of our body. Your mouth is the main entrance to the body. Gums and teeth are linked to the digestive, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic and skeletal systems and the bloodstream. And they share the harmful organisms that cause disease. This is why your dentist is so important to your health and well-being. Your dentist is an expert in diagnosing and treating conditions of your teeth, gums and upper jaw. He looks for conditions that can impact your overall health. Most important, your dentist can help you prevent damaging and costly oral health problems from occurring in the first place.

What you should know before choosing a dentist

Is the dentist covered by your dental insurance plan?

Does the dentist perform the kinds of services you need? For example, you may want to find a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry or a pediatric dentist for your child.

How are emergencies handled?

Are the location and hours of the office convenient for you?

How long is the wait for non-emergency appointments?

What are the fees for typical services such as x-rays or a preventive dental appointment that includes an oral exam and teeth cleaning.?

Are payment plans available?

If you get butterflies in your stomach when thinking of going to the dental appointment, ask if the dentist specializes in working with patients who are nervous about dental procedures and if he or she offers nitrous oxide to help patients relax.

Your questions about your teeth and gums.

Q My dentist has talked to me about not flossing regularly. How can he tell?

A Most dentists and hygienists can tell you're not flossing by the number of cavities you have-particularly in areas where teeth meet-and by irritated, bleeding gums.

Q I've always taken antibiotics before having a dental procedure, so why am I now told it's not necessary?

A For many years, it was believed that antibiotics would prevent infective endocarditis (IE), a dangerous infection of the heart's lining or valves. People were believed to be at greater risk for IE if they have a condition such as mitral valve prolapse or rheumatic heart disease. However, studies have shown that antibiotics and antibiotic resistance are the greater concerns for people with these conditions. Antibiotics should still be taken by people with specific serious cardiac issues, including: a history of having had IE, artificial heart valves, a number of congenital heart conditions and some cardiac transplant patients.

Q I'm told I need oral surgery because I have gum disease. Is this painful?

A Oral surgery is commonly used to treat people who have receding gums due to disease or age. In most likelihood, your oral surgeon will graft tissue from the roof of your mouth onto your gums. If a small amount of tissue is involved, local anesthesia will keep you comfortable. If the grafts are larger, your oral surgeon may use general anesthesia or local anesthesia combined with sedation.

Q Should adults get dental sealants?

A Absolutely. Sealants, plastic material bonded to the crevasses of your back teeth, protect adults and children from harmful bacteria and enamel-destroying acids.

Q Is it true that chewing gum can be good for your teeth and gums?

A Yes, clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating can reduce tooth decay. Some brands have ingredients that strengthen tooth enamel, too. Look for gum that has the ADA seal of approval.