Dental Health and Preexisting Conditions Scottsdale, AZ
Many people are unaware that the body's systems are all interconnected. Preexisting conditions can affect dental health and vice versa. Fortunately, a general dentist can help you better understand the link between your oral and overall health.
Oral-systemic coverage is available at Divine Dental in Scottsdale and the surrounding area. We are proud to offer general dentistry services that can benefit your smile and your systemic health. Call us today at (480) 855-3550 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Oral-Systemic Health and Preexisting Conditions
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, may be 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. Most of such bacteria are harmless, but poor oral hygiene may allow them to multiply to dangerously high levels. At this point, the mouth becomes at risk for several oral infections. Inflammation will then enter the bloodstream, weakening the body's immune system.
Oral health is most notably linked to preexisting heart conditions and diabetes. However, others involve pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis, and more. Research has shown that heart conditions and periodontitis have a positively correlated relationship and that diabetes and oral health exist bidirectionally. As such, receiving treatment for one condition often treats the other. Poor oral hygiene can increase elderly patients' risk of pneumonia. Furthermore, rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease are both linked to severe inflammation — making patients more susceptible to further health problems.
“Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, may be considered the primary component of the oral-systemic connection.”
Managing Preexisting Conditions and Oral Health
Just as oral health may affect other aspects of a patient's health, certain systemic conditions may also influence a patient's oral health. Neglecting one aspect of one's medical care can easily cause a never-ending cycle of health issues. As such, the very nature of the oral-systemic connection can sometimes necessitate changes to a patient's treatment plan — dental or otherwise. For instance, patients who have had a heart attack, heart failure, high blood pressure, stroke, or even chest pain (also known as angina) should seek their cardiologists' approval before scheduling any dental treatments.
Once approved, patients should tell their dentists about any heart conditions they have, procedures they have undergone, and medications they are taking to best allow the team to plan for any potential emergencies. This is true regardless of any systemic condition a patient may have. We can only provide optimal care if we know the full extent of our patients' unique medical histories and preexisting conditions. Otherwise, patients may run the risk of further aggravating both their oral and overall health.
“Neglecting one aspect of one’s medical care can easily cause a never-ending cycle of health issues.”
Preexisting Conditions, General Dentistry, and Insurance
Insurance companies typically define preexisting conditions as those conditions a patient had either been diagnosed with or received treatment for before enrolling in their current health plan. Examples include chronic illnesses, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, lupus, various forms of cancer, and more. Since January 1, 2014, it has been illegal for health insurance companies to refuse to cover or charge individuals more for their preexisting conditions, nor can they limit benefits for such conditions.
No insured person can be denied treatment for their preexisting conditions. As such, it is easier than ever for patients to find the right insurance policy for them. Still, certain health insurance plans may be a better fit for certain conditions. Those with chronic or ongoing illnesses, for instance, may benefit from choosing policies that allow more frequent care. Patients must have a comprehensive understanding of their medical and dental needs when selecting both a health and dental insurance plan.
“Patients must have a comprehensive understanding of their medical and dental needs when selecting both a health and dental insurance plan.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Health and Preexisting Conditions in Scottsdale, AZ
Addressing Preexisting Conditions in General Dentistry
Studies have shown that general health has a bidirectional relationship with oral health, meaning that good health is impossible without a healthy mouth. Some conditions may put patients more at risk for periodontal disease. At the same time, periodontal disease may further aggravate certain conditions. As a result, patients require comprehensive treatment for optimal care. General dentists can treat isolated oral health conditions. However, having access to the patient’s previous and current medical history can inform the dentist on how their oral health impacts their overall health and vice versa.
With the patient’s permission, general dentists can also work with their primary medical provider to personalize their treatment plan to their unique needs. This allows the dentist to address any warning signs of oral disease that they may have otherwise missed. Comprehensive care between dental and medical providers can also help avoid any factors that may aggravate the patient’s oral or overall health.
“Studies have shown that general health has a bidirectional relationship with oral health, meaning that good health is impossible without a healthy mouth.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What preexisting conditions are linked to oral health?
Q. How do preexisting conditions affect dental care?
Q. How can I find an insurance plan that will cover my preexisting conditions?
People Also Ask
Q. How can someone find out what procedures their dental insurance covers?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I prevent gum disease?
A. Nothing can replace regular visits to a general dentist, especially since gum disease is often a "silent" condition with little to no symptoms until it has already progressed to advanced stages. However, good oral hygiene should be the first defense for anyone looking to prevent gum disease. Brushing at least twice daily and flossing once nightly can help remove plaque, especially when using a fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash. Divine Dental can help determine your unique risk profile and what you can do to bring your mouth back to a healthy mouth baseline.
Q. Are there any risk factors for gum disease?
A. Lifestyle choices significantly affect one's risk of developing gum disease. These involve excessive alcohol intake, tobacco use, and poor nutrition. Age, genetics, stress, medications, and grinding or clenching teeth may also play a factor. However, this list is not exhaustive.
Q. What are the causes of gum disease?
A. Typically, gum disease begins with a buildup of excess plaque. If left undisturbed for long enough, this plaque will eventually turn to tartar under the gumline. From then on, it will develop into gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. If left untreated, this condition will progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease.
Q. Why do general dentists provide patient education?
A. Many patients lack the necessary knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their dental care. As a result, they may feel lost or vulnerable during dental visits. Our goal is to empower each of our patients to be active participants in their treatment and recovery while giving them vital information about the conditions that may be affecting their smile and overall health.
Q. Is pregnancy a preexisting condition?
A. Pregnancy is not a preexisting condition for most insurance plans. However, it may still affect and be affected by oral health. Our compassionate staff will take the necessary steps to provide you with safe, efficient dental care for both you and your baby.
Scan here to view this page, Dental Health and Preexisting Conditions, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
If you live in the Scottsdale area, call 480-855-3550 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
About our business and website security
- Divine Dental was established in 2021.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Maricopa County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Scottsdale, Glendale, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Mesa
- National Provider Identifier Database (1609026913). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Divine Dental on mobile
Back to top of Dental Health and Preexisting Conditions
Related Posts
Welcome To Divine Dental
We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Scottsdale, AZ area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Emergency Dentist, General Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Gum Disease Treatment, Dental Bridges, Dental Fillings, Dental Crowns and Dental Bonding.
What To Expect After A Deep Dental Cleaning
A dental deep cleaning is often necessary when individuals neglect their oral cavity, thus resulting in poor health. Once the point has been reached where a dental deep cleaning is necessary, individuals will need to take extra care of their gums afterward. Doing so will ensure that the results of the cleaning last.A dental deep…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Divine Dental on mobile
