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A national report links it to chronic illnesses, and Clínica Dental Estepona recommends regular check-ups as prevention
Oral health and overall health are more closely connected than we often think. The latest Technical Report on Oral and General Health, presented by the General Council of Dentists of Spain and the Spanish Dental Foundation (FDE), confirms that maintaining a healthy mouth not only helps preserve teeth and gums but also contributes to reducing the risk of various chronic diseases that affect millions of people in our country.
At the centre of these studies is periodontitis, a chronic gum infection which, if left untreated, causes the loss of tooth support and can eventually lead to tooth loss. The General Council of Dentists and the FDE explain in their report that this disease is not limited to the oral cavity, but may also play a role in the development or progression of conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. They also point out that early treatment can improve the outcome of some of these conditions, highlighting the preventive role of dentistry.
“In our daily practice we see how a simple routine check-up allows us to detect early signs of periodontal disease and treat them before they become a bigger problem. Looking after your gums means looking after your overall health, and many patients are often unaware of that connection,” explains José Luis Moreno Miranda, Director of Clínica Dental Estepona.
Specialists stress the importance of maintaining proper hygiene habits and attending regular dental check-ups, even during the summer months, a time when routines are often relaxed. A timely examination is the most effective and straightforward way to ensure a healthy smile and better long-term wellbeing.
Clínica Dental Estepona has established itself as a benchmark for oral health care on the Costa del Sol. It currently has two practices in Estepona, in addition to Clínica Dental La Campana in Nueva Andalucía and Marbella Dental Arts in Puerto Banús.
Periodontitis in numbers
According to data from the General Council of Dentists, more than 30% of the adult population in Spain suffers from some degree of periodontitis, and in people over 65 this figure exceeds 60%. Despite its prevalence, many sufferers are unaware they have the disease because in its early stages it may progress without pain. These figures reinforce the need for regular check-ups to detect the problem early and prevent future complications.
The full report, with all the details on the relationship between oral and systemic health, is available on the website of the General Council of Dentists.
