Many people do not realize that the systems of the body are all interrelated. Preexisting conditions can affect dental health and vice versa. A complete health dentist can help you better understand the oral–systemic link and treat your overall health. Oral–systemic coverage is available at Desert Bloom Dentistry in Safford and the surrounding area. We are proud to offer complete health dentistry for preexisting conditions and more. Call us today at (928) 428-1617 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is often considered the primary component of the oral–systemic connection. The mouth is one of the primary entryways into the digestive and respiratory tracts, making it a natural breeding ground for bacteria. While most oral bacteria remain harmless, poor oral hygiene can allow them to multiply to dangerously high levels. When infection and inflammation enter the bloodstream, they weaken the body’s immune system. Oral health is most notably linked to preexisting heart conditions and diabetes. Other affected systems include the lungs (pneumonia) and musculoskeletal system (rheumatoid arthritis). Research shows a positively correlated relationship between heart conditions and periodontitis and a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and oral health. Treating one condition often improves the other. Poor oral hygiene can also increase elderly patients’ risk of pneumonia, while rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease share severe inflammation pathways.
Just as oral health may affect other aspects of a patient’s health, preexisting systemic conditions can also influence oral health. Neglecting one aspect of care can create a cycle of health issues. For example, patients with a history of heart attack, heart failure, high blood pressure, stroke, or angina should seek their cardiologist’s approval before any dental treatment. Once cleared, patients must inform their dentist of any heart conditions, surgeries, and medications so the care team can plan for potential emergencies. This comprehensive approach applies to all systemic conditions. Optimal care requires full knowledge of each patient’s medical history and preexisting conditions. Otherwise, treatments may aggravate both oral and overall health.
Insurance companies generally define preexisting conditions as those diagnosed or treated before enrolling in a health plan (e.g., chronic illnesses, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, lupus, and many cancers). Since January 1, 2014, it has been illegal for insurers to refuse coverage, charge more, or limit benefits for preexisting conditions. No insured person can be denied treatment for these conditions. However, choosing the right health plan still matters. Patients with chronic or ongoing illnesses may benefit from policies that allow more frequent care. When selecting a plan, patients need a clear understanding of their medical needs. Consulting a complete health dentist can help guide this choice by highlighting how oral care intersects with ongoing conditions.
Studies have shown that overall health and oral health have a bidirectional relationship—good health is impossible without a healthy mouth. Some conditions make patients more vulnerable to periodontal disease, while periodontal disease can exacerbate systemic issues. As a result, patients require comprehensive treatment that addresses the root cause. Traditional dentists often treat isolated oral problems, but complete health dentistry views the patient holistically. This approach includes educating patients on how their conditions manifest, other systemic diseases indicated by oral findings, and root-cause interventions. Successful treatment also demands strong communication among providers: most primary care doctors rarely ask about oral health. With patient permission, we collaborate with their medical team to customize treatment plans, ensuring warning signs of disease are not missed and avoiding factors that could aggravate existing conditions.
