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Beyond Dentistry: Helping Patients’ Long-Term Health

Beyond Dentistry: Helping Patients’ Long-Term Health
by Scott Murray

We all know cardiovascular disease remains a major problem in our society. People often hear about how diet, exercise and doctor visits are some of the most effective ways to prevent a heart attack or a stroke.

However, many dentists are also aware of how oral health is also a major factor in the equation. So, the question is, can dentists do more to fight cardiovascular disease and help their patients live longer?

They can. You just need to make the connection between dental health and heart health a key element of a larger long-term health strategy for your patients.

It's important to make sure people understand that the importance of oral health doesn't end with fighting cavities during childhood. People know their bodies change, and certain risks can increase over time. The same is true with the health of their mouths. Plus, researchers have found direct correlations between the health of the mouth, heart and brain.

So how do you take additional steps to improve people's long-term health?

Partner with primary care physicians

This means health care practitioners should team up and provide a more comprehensive approach to patient health.
 
Doctors can develop relationships with knowledgeable dentists in an effort to help save lives. That also means that dentists have to view the scope of their work beyond healthy teeth.

Doctors have other specialist referrals available to their patients. Why shouldn’t an informed dentist be part of that team?

Read full article on MultiBriefs.