Dentists these days aren’t just checking for cavities. A new report from New York University found that they’re also diagnosing patients with everything from eating disorders, to diabetes, to HIV!

So, why are dentists acting like doctors? NYU researchers say it’s because even though most people today have health insurance, they don’t regularly see their doctors, but they do see their dentist. Lead researcher Dr. Sheila Strauss says it’s probably because dental problems are often too painful to ignore, so people see a dentist the moment they have an issue. Also, Dr. Strauss says that dentists are more likely than MDs to send out appointment reminders every 6 months.

So that’s why a growing number of dentists are finding themselves diagnosing patients with serious medical conditions during what should be routine dental cleanings. And even though experts say that an oral or dental abnormality is often the first sign of a major health problem, like diabetes or substance abuse, you shouldn’t solely rely on your dentist to double as your doctor. Their specialty is teeth and not the general body, so they may miss crucial signs that something’s up with your health.

So, if you haven’t seen your doctor in more than a year, make an appointment.