Teeth and health have one thing in common – you miss them when they are missing. Teeth have a close connection to health and can influence it. Both negatively and positively.
Function of the masticatory organ and interdisciplinary dentistry
“Function is not everything. But without function, everything is nothing!” Prof. A. Gutowski (dentist, gnathology) once said, emphasizing the importance of the function of the masticatory system. Speaking, chewing, but also posture and stress management are among the functions of the teeth. A well-functioning masticatory organ (according to Prof. R. Slavicek, interdisciplinary dentistry) can cope with stress and improve performance and well-being. Very often, functional disorders can be recognized by the fact that the teeth do not fit together properly or muscle tension and pain in the jaw joint occur.
Periodontitis and systemic diseases
Periodontitis (inflammation of the periodontium) is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide and is therefore well researched. Heart disease, diabetes and premature birth are some of the systemic diseases associated with periodontitis. Gum bulging, tooth loosening, gum recession and tooth loss are typical side effects of periodontitis. Systematic periodontitis treatment can have positive effects on overall health.
Tooth loss and neurological effects
A physiological masticatory system has very fine control and perception capabilities. When teeth are lost, these abilities are needed less. Less used resources are degraded by nature accordingly. Studies show that people with fewer teeth are more at risk of developing dementia.
Holistic explanations
Complementary dentistry, often referred to as holistic or biological dentistry, attempts to explain the connection between teeth and other organs and body parts with the help of meridians (traditional Chinese medicine). There are more and more patients and dentists who are convinced of this theory and its results. Due to the scientific situation, detailed information is highly advisable before treatment.
