Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz, CA
Most of us have been told, since we were children, about the importance of comprehensive oral health care that includes daily brushing and flossing, in combination with maintaining a regular schedule of dental check-ups. Following this regimen protects you against tooth decay and cavities, but did you know that maintaining a high level of dental health also can raise your defenses against certain diseases?
Know the consequences of poor oral hygiene
Generally speaking, the most widespread oral health issues—cavities and gum disease—are preventable by performing a diligent routine of oral hygiene. The long-term effects of these ailments can include tooth loss, bone loss, halitosis, and the development of abscesses. Patients with advanced cases of gum disease also are more vulnerable to heart disease. Both gum disease and heart disease have been linked to chronic inflammation, and data released by the American Academy of Periodontology found patients with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to develop cardiac problems—one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Children are most susceptible to problems related to poor dentition
Children have cannot access dental care themselves, thus leaving them to deal with the consequences of whatever health prevention measures are followed in their homes. Children who live in poverty may be at an especially high risk of oral health problems as their families may not have access to or the financial means to afford certain components of good oral hygiene such as a well-balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables, regular dental check-ups, or simply are not taught an emphasis on good oral hygiene at home.
Failing to receive regular dental care leads to a vicious cycle of problems
If a person has not established a relationship with a local dentist, they may only seek care if a serious problem develops. This may entail seeking treatment from an emergency room or an urgent care facility, but as the medical professionals here are not specially trained to care for the teeth and mouth, they can only apply a temporary fix to the problem—such as medicine to treat any pain or infection.
Finances never should be the decisive factor when determining the level of care
Many people sadly do not have the financial means to see the dentist on a regular basis. Many employers do not offer dental insurance, and if they do, the cost of this coverage may be too much on top of standard health insurance. As a result, people who avoid the dentist out of financial concerns end up needing more costly and intensive procedures—as they usually seek treatment only when a problem occurs, and by the time many oral health problems manifest perceptible symptoms, serious damage has been done.
At Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry, your Los Gatos dentists Dr. Ariana Ebrahimian and Dr. Max Ebrahimian will take all the steps they can to maintain a high level of dental health for every member of your family. We take a holistic approach to dentistry—focusing not just on obvious needs like cleaning teeth and filling cavities, but also encouraging greater health and harmony of the entire orofacial system.
To learn more about our services, please call (831) 438-4411 to schedule a consultation.
Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry is proud to care for patients in the areas of Los Gatos, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley in California.
