It’s a Mouthful

Dentists are known for protecting our teeth and gums from dental disease but did you know they could also save your life?

In addition to inspecting your mouth for cavities, dentists use checkups to screen for several different health issues by spotting symptoms that could indicate serious medical problems elsewhere in the body. It’s often during this routine check dentists discover signs of a problem in the form of colour variations, small sores, and changes in saliva. Just by looking in your mouth, dentists can identify signs of cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, skin diseases, autoimmune diseases and more.

Your oral health can also have an effect on your overall health. Dentists identify, prevent, and treat gum disease, which can have a significant effect on the rest of your body. Studies have shown gum disease can heighten the risk of heart disease, strokes, and pneumonia. Visiting your dentist every six months is a key component of maintaining good oral and overall health, but it can be expensive if you don’t have the proper dental coverage. The Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan® offers a wide range of dental options, designed to meet a variety of budgets and employee expectations. Basic coverage includes such things as check-ups, cleanings and x-rays; while more comprehensive coverage includes services like crowns, dentures and orthodontic services. So take a few moments and make sure your dental plan is up-to-date. A regular visit to the dentist will not only help you to maintain a healthy smile, but a healthy body as well!