If you visit your dentist on a regular basis, you are doing yourself a favor in four ways. First, you are saving your teeth so you can chew properly, which is an important factor in nutrition.
Second, when you visit your dentist, he or she can check your gums. Periodontal disease can result in lost teeth and is a significant factor in heart disease. Periodontal bacteria can lead to blood clots, increasing the risk for heart attack and stroke.
People with diabetes should be particularly watchful for periodontal disease. They are more prone to infection, and periodontal disease makes it more difficult to stabilize blood glucose levels. Third, properly caring for your teeth results in big financial savings in the future. Root canals, bridgework, dental implants, and dentures can cost thousands of dollars.
Fourth, by properly caring for your teeth, you will ultimately save yourself a lot of pain and inconvenience.