The role of the dentist in the management of systemic conditions.

The rates of lifestyle-related diseases are increasing. Worldwide there is an obesity epidemic, one of the consequences of which is an overwhelming increase in type 2 diabetes, not only in adults, but also in children and adolescents. Many cases are currently undiagnosed resulting in serious complications and placing individuals at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. As many diseases share common risk factors, the current emphasis is on primary prevention and risk assessment by all health care providers to enable detection and early intervention. Lifestyle factors that impact on oral health can also have an impact on general health, and lifestyle behaviours that promote better oral health can decrease the risk for chronic disease. In this context, changing oral health behaviour to promote better oral health may directly impact on improving general health for all age groups. Risk assessment for systemic diseases in the dental setting is explored to provide dental professionals with a framework for promoting better overall health for their patients.