Most dental visits focus primarily on cavities and gum disease. While those are important, they are only part of the bigger picture when it comes to oral health. In this short clip, taken from a podcast recorded with Dr. Caleb Moore, Dr. Mac explains why she takes a more comprehensive approach to dentistry. In addition to evaluating teeth for decay and gum disease, she also looks at bite related issues, tooth wear, fractures, and signs of acid erosion that may be connected to medical conditions. The mouth is closely connected to the rest of the body, and many dental conditions are influenced by overall health, lifestyle, and how the teeth function together. This approach is not meant to criticize other dentists, but rather to highlight the importance of looking at the entire system so patients can receive a more complete understanding of their oral health and long term treatment options.