Oral Systemic Health Connection

Oral systemic health is the connection between oral health and overall health. Over the years, numerous studies have been conducted that prove if a patient has poor oral health or a lack of an oral care routine, they have a higher risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and dementia. The health of your teeth and gums is critical to maintaining healthy organs. Your best form of prevention is visiting The Oyster Bay Dentists twice a year for routine exams and professional dental cleanings.  

According to numerous studies, there are three ways that oral disease may affect your overall health. First, bacteria from the gums will enter the saliva and from there may adhere to water droplets within the air you inhale each time you breathe. These bacteria may be aspirated into the lungs, and may potentially cause infection. Additionally, periodontal disease that is left untreated can become so aggressive that bacteria may enter the bloodstream and lead to further complications. To keep a healthy body, maintain a healthy mouth by brushing for two minutes at least twice a day, and floss at least once a day.

If you have questions or concerns about oral-systemic health, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

Oral Piercings and Teeth

These days, tongue rings, lip rings, and cheek piercings are a popular form of self-expression amongst young adults. Though they may look trendy, The Oyster Bay Family Dentists want to explain the consequences that can stem from oral piercings. The mouth contains millions of bacteria, and if your body rejects an oral piercing it’s possible that your mouth and tongue could swell, making it difficult to breathe. They can also chip or crack the teeth, and if this happens it will require a dental procedure to fix the problem.

It is important to follow aftercare instructions after receiving an oral piercing as this can lead to infection. It’s critical to keep your mouth as clean as possible because an oral infection can become life-threatening if not treated promptly. Additionally, jewelry such as a tongue ring can bump against your teeth while talking or eating. To avoid chipping a tooth, you should avoid “playing” with the jewelry in your mouth as this can damage your teeth and gums. Remember to remove your oral jewelry if you are playing sports, and if you notice any signs of infection, give us a call immediately.

If you have questions or concerns about how oral piercings can affect your oral health, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.oysterbaydentists.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call 516-922-5730.

What is a Perio Pocket?

Gum disease affects oral health in many ways, and this includes the development of a perio pocket. A perio pocket or periodontal pocket describes a detachment of gingival fibers from the tooth, creating a deep gap which may contribute to infection and abscess, and further advancement of periodontal disease. If left untreated, a perio pocket can result in tooth loss.

It’s very important to get a perio pocket properly diagnosed and treated. Treatment consists of reducing the depth of the perio pocket through removal of bacteria by deep cleaning and/or osseous surgery.

If you are affected by a perio pocket, or you have noticed your gum tissue receding or separating from the base of your teeth, please contact us and arrange an appointment. We can determine the best treatment for your needs, help you get periodontal disease under control, and work to save your smile.