The mouth can say some things without speaking a word. In this case, we’re talking about how it can reveal symptoms of more than one hundred diseases. Dentists often serve as the early detectors of unforeseen health conditions.

Dentists don’t just clean and inspect teeth. They also look at all the soft tissues within the mouth. The way these tissues behave can reveal early signs of ailments requiring immediate medical attention. To learn how regular dental checkups can save you from life-threatening conditions that seem to have nothing to do with the mouth, read on.

About 50% of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease. Luckily, when caught early, this serious oral health concern can be stopped and even reversed. With the help of good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and some lifestyle changes, you should be able to fight off gum disease and prolong the life of your smile. If you’re looking to change your diet to support your oral health, here are 6 foods that can help prevent gum disease.