See the Dentist in Odessa to Maintain Your Oral and General Health

If your New Year’s resolution is to take better care of your health, then we’d like to make a suggestion. Seeing the dentist! That’s right. If you want to enjoy overall health, then you need to take care of your mouth. Research has proven that the condition of your mouth plays a critical role in the health of your body. Your dentist in Odessa can ensure your oral health so you also enjoy the benefits of good overall health. Read on to learn more about the connection between oral and general health.

The Oral-Systemic Connection

The oral-systemic connection is what dentists, doctors and researchers call the integral link between your mouth and the rest of your body. This connection largely rests on the condition of your gums.

Your mouth is filled with millions of bacteria. Left to multiply unchecked, these bacteria can lead to periodontal disease, which is divided into phases:

• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis
• Advanced Periodontitis

Each of these bacterial infections happen as a result of inadequate oral hygiene, including daily brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist.

Necessary Oral Hygiene

The main objective of brushing and flossing is the removal of plaque, the clear sticky film that is produced in the mouth 24/7. Oral bacteria live in this biofilm.

If not eliminated with daily oral hygiene care, plaque builds up on and between your teeth, but especially along the gum line. With time, plaque hardens to become tartar, which is also called calculus.

Where there’s tartar there are bacteria stuck to teeth and along the gum. When this happens, the tartar and bacteria must be removed with professional periodontal therapy. Otherwise, gum disease can progress. Eventually, these bacteria may destroy gum, connective tissue and even bone tissue. Left untreated, advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

Oral Bacteria and the Rest of Your Body

The same bacteria that can destroy teeth and gums have also been connected to several diseases and illnesses. Bleeding gum tissue is one of the leading indicators of gingivitis and only gets worse with periodontitis. When this happens, bacteria have access to the bloodstream and can travel to other parts of the body. Likewise, a deep inhalation can draw bacteria into your lungs and airways.

The conditions associated with oral bacterial infection include:

• Hypertension
• Heart Disease
• Stroke
• Dementia
• Pneumonia
• Depression
• Pregnancy Complications

Your Dentist Near Me Can Help

In addition to brushing and flossing at home, seeing the dentist in Odessa for dental checkups every six months is advisable. At these appointments, you’ll receive a professional cleaning and your gums will be examined in order to spot the early signs of disease—red and swollen gums and gum tissue that bleeds when brushed or flossed.

We’ll also chart the depth of gum pockets around your teeth, which can begin to deepen if there is bacterial infection.

Take care of your smile and your health in 2018. Schedule a dental checkup with the dentist near me.

Meet the Doctor

Dr. Steve W. Cobb is a family and cosmetic dentist. He and his staff offer a wide range of general, restorative and cosmetic treatments for patients throughout West Texas. Call the office today to schedule an appointment.