Why Ignoring Your Oral Hygiene Could Lead to Silent Health Risks

Photo: Dr. Arlene Asante When most people think of health check-ups, they picture a visit to the doctor for routine screenings, perhaps even a trip to a nutritionist or fitness coach. But there’s one specialist who’s often overlooked—the dentist. According to Dr. Arlene Asante, a seasoned dentist passionate about oral care, neglecting your dental health can mean missing out on crucial indicators of your overall health. From heart disease to diabetes, Dr. Asante explains how your oral health is deeply connected to the rest of your body and why taking a proactive approach to dental care can save more than just your smile. The Overlooked Connection: Oral Health and Overall Health Oral health is far more than a set of clean, white teeth.  “A lot of times people separate the two, not realizing they’re actually linked. For example, certain diseases like anemia, high blood pressure, and diabetes can have symptoms that show up in the mouth. Some medications can also alter the chemistry of your mouth. So, there’s always a connection between the two, and it’s crucial to keep that in mind,” Dr. Asante tells BlackDoctor.org. Beyond that, medications can impact oral chemistry, causing dry mouth or altering the balance...