{"id":215,"date":"2018-11-06T02:08:53","date_gmt":"2018-11-06T02:08:53","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.stevewcobbdds.com\/blog\/?p=215"},"modified":"2018-12-06T02:12:21","modified_gmt":"2018-12-06T02:12:21","slug":"dentist-near-midland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stevewcobbdds.com\/blog\/dentist-near-midland\/","title":{"rendered":"A Dentist near Midland Explains the Oral-Systemic Connection"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"woman<\/a>No one needs to tell you that regularly seeing a dentist near Midland is important to maintaining your oral health and a beautiful smile. But did you know that keeping your mouth in good shape also contributes to your overall health and well being? It\u2019s true. Dentists, scientists and researchers acknowledge the oral-systemic connection. Read on to learn more about this link and how preventing gum disease\u00a0<\/a>is especially important.<\/p>\n

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What is the Oral-Systemic Connection?<\/h2>\n

The oral-systemic connection refers to the link between the mouth and body. Specifically, we\u2019re talking about oral bacteria than can lead to gum disease.<\/p>\n

All stages of gum disease\u2014gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis\u2014are bacterial infections that develop as a result of inadequate oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day helps to remove plaque, which is that sticky film in everyone\u2019s mouth. Bacteria hide in plaque.<\/p>\n

When not removed, plaque builds up between your teeth and along the gum line. In a short time, plaque hardens and becomes tartar. Now, the bacteria are stuck on your teeth and can only be removed with periodontal therapy in a dentist\u2019s office.<\/p>\n

Without treatment, gum disease advances and the bacteria begin to destroy gum and connective tissue. Eventually, advanced periodontitis destroys the supporting bone structure, too.<\/p>\n

Oral Bacteria and Your General Health<\/h2>\n

Unfortunately, oral bacteria may not only cause trouble in your mouth. The same bacteria that destroy gum tissue can lead to several bodily diseases and illnesses.<\/p>\n

For instance, a leading indicator of periodontal disease is bleeding gum tissue. If this happens, bacteria could access the bloodstream, traveling to other organs of the body. Similarly, inhaling can draw bacteria into your respiratory system.<\/p>\n

The conditions associated with oral bacterial infection include:<\/p>\n