The Connection Between Medicine and Dentistry: Unveiling the DO Dental Difference

Have you ever considered that your mouth is truly part of your whole body? It might seem like an obvious thought, but in today's healthcare landscape, the mouth is often treated as separate from the rest of the body. Yet, it's deeply connected to overall health.

At our practice, we are committed to caring for the entire person. As a dually licensed physician and dentist, I've witnessed firsthand the significant impact of treating the mouth as an integral part of the body's systems. Simple actions like regular teeth cleanings have been shown to benefit conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and more.

Even seemingly minor issues like asymptomatic abscesses can profoundly affect your health. Inflammation in the mouth doesn't stay isolated; it circulates throughout the entire body. While this shouldn't come as a surprise, it often does! I'm heartened to see decades of research increasingly support this understanding, and I'm encouraged by the growing number of medical professionals who emphasize the importance of oral health in achieving overall wellness.

You might wonder why a physician is working in a dental office. As an osteopathic physician, my approach to medicine has always been holistic—considering the mind, body, spirit, and soul as interconnected aspects of health. My dual expertise in both medicine and dentistry allows me to bridge the gap between these fields, providing comprehensive care that addresses your unique needs. Whether it's connecting the dots between your dental and medical health, using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to prevent or manage illness or injury, or addressing your dental concerns, my goal is to support you in achieving your best health in every dimension.

I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Aaron Goodwin, DO, DMD

References

What is OMT? https://doctorsthatdo.org/faq/what-is-osteopathic-manipulative-treatment

What is a DO? https://doctorsthatdo.org/difference