The mouth is a mirror of general health. As a dental care professional, you already know this, but more and more research underlines how closely these two worlds are intertwined. The link between oral health and diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and even Alzheimer’s is becoming increasingly clear. And that makes your role as a dentist, dental hygienist or prevention assistant more important than ever.
Periodontitis, caries, wear and tear… These are common problems that you treat every day. But did you know that these conditions are often linked to systemic diseases? For example, chronic gum disease increases the risk of cardiovascular disease because inflammatory substances can cause damage elsewhere in the body via the blood. There is also a proven interaction between diabetes and periodontitis: people with poorly controlled diabetes are more likely to suffer from gum problems, and conversely, periodontitis can negatively affect blood sugar levels.
In addition, there are signs that poor oral health contributes to an increased risk of pneumonia, especially in vulnerable elderly people, and that there may be a link with cognitive decline such as Alzheimer’s. So you look beyond just the teeth.
You are at the forefront of prevention. By picking up signals early and informing patients about the importance of oral health in relation to their general health, you can do much more than just a radiant smile. Think of recognizing signs of eating disorders, vitamin deficiencies or even stress in good time – all visible in the mouth.
More and more healthcare providers see the value of collaboration between oral care and other medical disciplines. Do you ever refer to a general practitioner or internist? Or do you receive patients based on referral? Interdisciplinary collaboration will only become more important in the future. Dental Expo actively responds to this with speakers and sessions that strengthen these types of connections.
A large part of the Dutch population still underestimates the importance of good oral hygiene. While prevention and education are the key to sustainable health gains. By not only treating your patients, but also actively coaching them in their oral health, you contribute to broader health goals.
Does your practice already have structural attention for lifestyle discussions? Do you discuss nutritional habits, smoking, sleep and stress with your patients? These topics are increasingly part of the modern oral care practice.
Fortunately, there are more and more technological solutions that support you in this broader role. Think of apps that help patients with their oral care, smart brush technology, or software that helps with early diagnosis via AI. During Dental Expo 2026, you will discover innovations that help to make the bridge between oral health and general health even more effective.
During Dental Expo 2026 you will have plenty of opportunity to delve into this theme. Visit the knowledge program, discover innovations that support preventive care and meet colleagues who, like you, believe in an integrated care.
Oral health as a predictor of other conditions
Periodontitis, caries, wear and tear… These are common problems that you treat every day. But did you know that these conditions are often linked to systemic diseases? For example, chronic gum disease increases the risk of cardiovascular disease because inflammatory substances can cause damage elsewhere in the body via the blood. There is also a proven interaction between diabetes and periodontitis: people with poorly controlled diabetes are more likely to suffer from gum problems, and conversely, periodontitis can negatively affect blood sugar levels.
In addition, there are signs that poor oral health contributes to an increased risk of pneumonia, especially in vulnerable elderly people, and that there may be a link with cognitive decline such as Alzheimer’s. So you look beyond just the teeth.
The dental care professional as a link in the chain
You are at the forefront of prevention. By picking up signals early and informing patients about the importance of oral health in relation to their general health, you can do much more than just a radiant smile. Think of recognizing signs of eating disorders, vitamin deficiencies or even stress in good time – all visible in the mouth.
More and more healthcare providers see the value of collaboration between oral care and other medical disciplines. Do you ever refer to a general practitioner or internist? Or do you receive patients based on referral? Interdisciplinary collaboration will only become more important in the future. Dental Expo actively responds to this with speakers and sessions that strengthen these types of connections.
Oral health starts with awareness
A large part of the Dutch population still underestimates the importance of good oral hygiene. While prevention and education are the key to sustainable health gains. By not only treating your patients, but also actively coaching them in their oral health, you contribute to broader health goals.
Does your practice already have structural attention for lifestyle discussions? Do you discuss nutritional habits, smoking, sleep and stress with your patients? These topics are increasingly part of the modern oral care practice.
Innovation as a catalyst
Fortunately, there are more and more technological solutions that support you in this broader role. Think of apps that help patients with their oral care, smart brush technology, or software that helps with early diagnosis via AI. During Dental Expo 2026, you will discover innovations that help to make the bridge between oral health and general health even more effective.
Dental Expo 2026: for the future of integrated care
During Dental Expo 2026 you will have plenty of opportunity to delve into this theme. Visit the knowledge program, discover innovations that support preventive care and meet colleagues who, like you, believe in an integrated care.
