Dental Checkups May Unlock Hidden Hypertension and Diabetes Cases
MADRID, SPAIN – A surprising number of individuals living with undiagnosed hypertension or diabetes could have their conditions first detected during routine dental visits, according to experts at Clinic Dr. Nuria Vallcorba and Dentaid.The clinic reports receiving a significant influx of patients unaware they may be suffering from either condition, highlighting a potential for dental professionals to play a crucial role in early disease detection.
This revelation underscores a growing understanding of the interconnectedness between oral health and systemic diseases. Approximately half of those with hypertension or diabetes may be unaware of their condition, leading to delayed treatment and increased health risks. By integrating awareness of these connections into dental practise,professionals can act as a frontline defense,prompting further medical evaluation and possibly improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Nuria Vallcorba emphasizes the proactive role dental clinics can take in promoting overall wellness. “In the dental clinic we can help the patient to have a healthy lifestyle, with a low-carbohydrate diet, physical exercise, elimination of smoking and stress,” she stated, adding that these lifestyle adjustments contribute to both periodontal health and the management of chronic non-communicable diseases.
Effective implementation of this approach requires equipping both patients and dental professionals with the knowledge and tools to assess oral health conditions accurately. Patricia Antón, National Medical Area Manager at Dentaid, explained that this allows for a more informed assessment of a patient’s general health status, facilitating timely referrals when necessary.
