A new year often inspires people to reprioritize their health and well-being. But New Year’s resolutions won’t be the only reason people may be focused on their health. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has played a large role in keeping overall health at the forefront of people’s minds. More than 3 in 4 Illinois residents (77 percent) say the COVID-19 pandemic has made them more aware of their overall health, according to a recent survey by Delta Dental of Illinois.
Oral health key to overall health
The Delta Dental of Illinois survey showed that almost all Illinois adults (95%) agree that oral health is very important to overall health. Yet, about 3 in 10 said they didn’t realize there is a connection between their oral health and conditions such as dementia, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and respiratory issues. Visiting your dentist and physician for regular preventive checkups can identify issues with your health before they worsen. During a routine exam of your mouth and jaw, your dentist can potentially detect early warning signs of more than 120 diseases. “Taking care of your teeth and gums can play a significant role in ensuring the health of your whole body,” said Dr. Sheila Strock, vice president of dental services and chief science officer at Delta Dental of Illinois.
Making oral health a priority
More than 7 in 10 Illinoisans (72 percent) said they are paying closer attention to their oral health care habits at home as a result of COVID-19, according to the Delta Dental of Illinois survey. Good home oral health habits include brushing twice a day for two full minutes each time and flossing daily. A strong oral health regimen also includes routine dental checkups. While some Illinoisans said they weren’t comfortable visiting the dentist during the COVID-19 pandemic, the vast majority (92 percent) had planned to visit the dentist in 2021. Regular dental checkups are important for both adults and children. As noted, they can help detect issues early, prevent problems from getting worse and avoid the need for more costly and complex treatments.
