The oral-systemic link between dental disease and other medical disorders was further solidified this year in health science research. In March, dental researchers convened in Tampa to share findings. The paper can be found here. It was found that diabetics who sought dental care for periodontal disease reduced their overall number of hospital or medical visits, thus reducing their overall healthcare spending.
Periodontal disease and diabetes are inextricably linked. The nature of the inflammatory pathways in gum is to disrupt the body's ability to manage the processes of glucose control, insulin and glucagon production, and metabolism of sugars. Chronic inflammation from any infection also inhibits the ability for a body to heal or perform optimally in countless ways.
With the constantly evolving demands of patient access to care, the model of caring for your mouth to care for your body really means more. There's only so many medical facilities to supply the ever-expanding demand for a clinic when patients need it. So if seeing a dentist can reduce medical visits, it ultimately creates a win-win-win: Win 1: patients can be healthier. Win 2: doctors and hospitals can reduce their labor and equipment costs. Win 3: medical insurers could potentially reduce policy premiums as healthcare utilization is reduced, and policy holders benefit.
SO, I say call our office and get an appointment reserved today!
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