Medical-Dental Collaborative

Why We Need More Dentists Involved in Medical Care of Patients

Dentists are vital contributors to total body care coordination, as research shows that oral health is linked to a range of chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Gum disease affects nearly half of adults in the United States and is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Meanwhile, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that people with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease, which can make it harder to manage blood sugar levels. 

Beyond these well-established connections, recent studies have shed light on the correlation between dental health and a host of mysterious and debilitating chronic illnesses. For instance, a 2021 review published in the journal Clinical Oral Investigations found that patients with fibromyalgia - a chronic pain condition that affects an estimated 4 million Americans - had a higher prevalence of gum disease and other oral health problems than those without the condition.

Similarly, a growing body of research has shown a link between oral health and mental health. In a 2018 study published in the Journal of Periodontology, researchers found that patients with depression were more likely to have severe gum disease than those without the condition. Meanwhile, a 2020 study in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that patients with periodontitis - a type of gum disease - were more likely to develop dementia than those without the condition.

Indeed, recent advancements in airway-focused dentistry and biological dentistry have further highlighted the links between dental health and holistic health. Airway-focused dentistry aims to address breathing-related sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can have far-reaching impacts on overall health. A growing body of research has shown that untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions. By collaborating with sleep medicine specialists and other healthcare providers, dentists can play a crucial role in identifying and addressing sleep-related breathing disorders, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Meanwhile, biological dentistry takes a whole-body approach to dental care, recognizing that oral health is intimately linked to systemic health. This approach emphasizes the use of biocompatible materials and minimally invasive procedures to promote optimal health outcomes. By considering the potential impacts of dental treatments on overall health, biological dentists can help identify and address underlying systemic issues that may be contributing to chronic disease.

These innovative approaches to dental care demonstrate the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to improving patient outcomes. As dentists and other healthcare providers continue to work together to promote holistic health, we can usher in a new era of healthcare that emphasizes prevention, patient-centered care, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Despite these clear connections, many physicians lack formal training in dental health, leaving a crucial gap in the management of chronic diseases. This is where dentists can play a crucial role in bridging the divide between medical and dental care. By collaborating with physicians and other healthcare providers, dentists can help identify and address oral health issues that may contribute to chronic diseases and improve overall patient outcomes.

At the heart of this collaborative effort lies a shared vision for a more integrated, patient-centered healthcare system. We believe that dentists are essential partners in achieving this goal and are calling on dental professionals to participate in our collaborative care programs. Together, we can champion a future of medicine that recognizes the interconnectedness of oral health and overall health, transforming the way we approach chronic disease management and delivering better outcomes for patients.