Comprehensive dentistry is no newbie in the field of dentistry. With the uprise of conventional dentistry options equatable to fast-food joints that give you what you want and do so quickly, comprehensive dentistry has lost its popularity. However, with the increase in awareness of overall physical well-being and holistic approaches to maintaining good health, comprehensive dentistry is making a comeback.
What is comprehensive dentistry, though? And how does it relate to the rest of the body?
Let’s find out.
Comprehensive Dentistry is Also About Overall Physical Well-Being
Comprehensive dentistry goes beyond your oral health and takes into consideration your physical as well as mental health. A comprehensive dentist examines not only your teeth but also the soft and hard tissues and muscles that help with chewing and jaw movement. This form of dentistry works along with the principle that a simple toothache is more than just that.
Here is how a typical comprehensive dental examination for children and adults goes:
- The appointment starts with an analysis of the detailed dental history and the list of complaints if any. At this point, the patient also communicates if he or she uses any medication or supplements or has any allergies.
- After a manual examination, digital X-rays are taken to view radiographic pictures of teeth, jaws, jaw joints, and sinuses for a better understanding.
- Next, an occlusion test is conducted to understand the muscles of teeth responsible for chewing and jaw movement.
- The comprehensive dentist will note any signs of abnormality and cater to the root cause of the issue.
- The dentist will then draw up a treatment plan and educate the patient about the same.
How Oral Health is Associated with the Rest of the Body
Poor oral health typically indicates the presence of dental cavities, and dental cavities are a major precursor to oral infections. While the risk of infection is minimized with proper professional care, ignorance often leads to the development of gum disease, such as periodontal disease. Infections in the mouth that lead to a buildup of bacteria result in inflammation. Since inflammation, in general, is a key factor in major diseases, it can translate to chronic disease.
Many fatal physical ailments are connected to poor oral health. Excessive bacteria and severe gum inflammation is known to affect the respiratory system. Periodontal disease, on the other hand, increases the risk of developing heart disease.
Thus, comprehensive dentistry and advanced dental technology are boons that will let us have strong and healthy bright teeth and take care of our overall physical health.
