Medically Reviewed On: December 12, 2006 (HealthCentersOnline)

Recent studies emphasize the importance of dental care in preventing or controlling diabetes and cardiovascular disease and possibly even avoiding cancer. 

Brushing correctly twice a day, flossing correctly daily and seeing a dentist and hygienist two to four times a year are crucial in preventing gum disease. Eighty percent of adults have periodontal disease, according to Dr. Chris Kammer of the Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, but many of them are unaware of it. The disease increases levels of bacteria that travel from the mouth to rest of the body, contributing to complications such as arterial plaque and atherosclerosis.

"Most people don't think of their dentist when it comes to health problems that are not found in one's mouth. But a dentist can actually be the first line of defense in reducing the risk for many of the most deadly diseases," Kammer stated in a news release issued this month. 

Highlights of findings on the connection between oral health and serious diseases: 

A man’s unique health concerns demand a unique multivitamin formulation. If you are never going to become pregnant or go through menopause, why would you take the same vitamins women do? The general “good for all” vitamin supplements do not even address the unique differences between men and women, who have very different biological needs.

No matter how healthy you eat, it is unlikely that you will absorb all necessary vitamins and minerals purely from food. In addition, many important nutritional components you need to maintain stamina, vitality, and energy are not part of today’s modern diet.