Comprehensive Dentist Aurora, CO
Many people do not realize that good total health starts with good oral health. The reverse is also true. Neglecting any health concerns will inevitably affect other parts of your body. This is known as the oral health connection. Comprehensive dentists address these issues by treating the entirety of a patient's condition rather than focusing on isolated symptoms.
Comprehensive dentistry is available at Southland Smiles in Aurora and the surrounding area. A total health dentist can help put you on the fast track to good oral and overall health. Call us today at (720) 599-2961 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Why Comprehensive Dentistry
Unlike traditional dentists, comprehensive dentists work in collaboration with their patients. Most patients of traditional dentists only go into the office on an "as-needed" basis. Moreover, when they are there, they typically will not receive any education on their condition. Their dentists do not tell them how their symptoms manifested, what other health problems they could indicate, or how to address the root causes of their condition.
In contrast, comprehensive dentists take a more integrative approach. They focus on treating a patient's total health through treating their oral health. By looking for the root cause of a patient's symptoms, comprehensive dentists can often identify signs of broader health conditions. As such, they are more directly involved in their patients' care — and provide them with the necessary education needed to do the same.
“By looking for the root cause of a patient’s symptoms, comprehensive dentists can often identify signs of larger health conditions.”
Choosing a Comprehensive Dentist
Many people are hesitant to see a comprehensive dentist because they do not know if it will be covered under their insurance. However, comprehensive dental offices operate just as conventional dental offices do. Many practices are covered by various health insurance plans, though some cosmetic and restorative treatments may need to be paid for out-of-pocket. As insurance carriers consider dental coverage to be a non-essential benefit, it is always best for patients to confirm with their insurance company and healthcare provider before making any plans.
As several conditions have direct relationships with oral health, all members of a patient's medical team should have contact with each other. This allows for a more thorough understanding of a patient's total health. However, primary care providers rarely ask a patient about their oral health. With a patient's permission, a comprehensive dentist can alert any relevant healthcare providers about any warning signs indicative of disease and work together to create the best treatment plan for their unique needs.
“With a patient’s permission, a comprehensive dentist can alert any relevant healthcare providers about any warning signs indicative of disease and work together to create the best treatment plan for their unique needs.”
Lifestyle Changes for Total Health
Since a comprehensive dentist focuses on all aspects of a patient's health, they can also recommend any lifestyle changes that may benefit them. This includes some basic advising on nutrition, as a patient's diet directly affects their oral health. Once food enters the mouth, it will inevitably affect tissue health. Conversely, oral health will affect a patient's ability to eat. Healthy eating habits can keep both of these potential problems in check. Patients are well-advised to avoid natural and added sugars, processed starches, and low pH-level acids.
Practicing good oral hygiene is also a critical part of improving dental health. This means brushing teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing nightly, and rinsing with a fluoridated mouthwash. Patients should ensure that they are brushing correctly — taking the time to move the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions rather than over- or under-brushing. And, since nothing can replace a comprehensive dentist's expertise, patients should go in for regular wellness visits at least twice a year. Some patients may need to go more frequently, depending on their needs.
“Since a comprehensive dentist focuses on all aspects of a patient’s health, they can also recommend any lifestyle changes that may benefit them.”
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The Mouth and Overall Health
Research has shown a strong oral health connection to overall health. Comprehensive dentistry recognizes this connection and takes an integrated approach to dental care. According to the American Heart Association, adults with gum disease may be at a significantly higher risk for high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to stroke and heart disease.
A comprehensive dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation of the teeth, gums, jaw, and surrounding soft tissue. This includes an analysis of all the risk factors associated with oral health - not just the diseases that can occur when oral health is poor, but also the ones known to contribute to overall dental health, such as diabetes and osteoporosis. By educating patients about the oral health connection, they can dedicate themselves to improving their oral health habits and ultimately reducing their risk for systemic disease.
“Research has shown a strong oral health connection to overall health.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How is comprehensive dentistry different from traditional dentistry?
Q. What should I know before choosing a comprehensive dentist?
Q. Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to improve my oral health?
Q. How does oral health affect overall health?
People Also Ask
Q. What services are offered by a general dentist?
Q. What other body systems are related to heart health?
Q. What emphasis do general dentists place on dental aesthetics?
Establishing a Healthy Mouth Baseline
Seeing a comprehensive dentist is a great step to maintain one's overall health. During the initial consultation, the dentist will show the patient a graph of the healthy mouth baseline. This model identifies any oral health irregularities that the patient and comprehensive dental team will work together to eliminate. A regular visit to a comprehensive dentist is not just a "checkup" — it is a wellness visit.
Before the patient meets the dentist, they will first overview their concerns with the dental hygienist. Afterward, the hygienist will take the patient's vitals, conduct an oral cancer screening, and ask about sleep and lifestyle habits. This will allow the doctor to create the best treatment plan for the patient's unique and individual needs. From then on, they will work together to set realistic health goals and discuss how to achieve them.
“A healthy mouth baseline identifies any oral health irregularities that the patient and comprehensive dental team will work together to eliminate.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How can my oral health affect my overall health?
A. Studies suggest oral bacteria and inflammation from severe gum disease can put you at high risk for stroke and heart disease. Conversely, certain diseases such as diabetes can increase your risk for oral health problems. Patients who dedicate themselves to good oral health can also reduce their risk for other health complications.
Q. What can I expect at my first appointment?
A. During your appointment, a comprehensive dentist will ask about your health history and identify any possible risk factors such as tobacco use. The dentist will do a thorough exam of your teeth, gums, jaw, and surrounding soft tissue. Comprehensive dentists will work with you to set realistic goals to improve your oral health and, conversely, your overall health.
Q. What is the healthy mouth baseline?
A. A comprehensive dentist uses the healthy mouth baseline to see where your oral health currently stands. It also identifies areas of concern. It helps set patient goals and develop customized treatment plans.
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Dental Terminology
Call Us Today
Improving your oral health is an integral part of boosting your overall wellness. Our total health dentist at Southland Smiles may be able to help. Call us today at 720-599-2961 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
About our business and website security
- Southland Smiles was established in 2009.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Arapahoe County, Adams County and Douglas County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Aurora, Centennial, Parker, Englewood, Foxfield, Castlewood Rock, Lone Tree, Elizabeth, Franktown and Highlands Ranch
- National Provider Identifier Database (1265685796). View NPI Registry Information
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