Dental Plaque | Dr. Mitchell & Dr. Crocker Dentist Kelowna

Many clients are shocked to find out that dental plaque is not something that only affects your mouth. The truth is, our mouth is a gateway to our entire body. If you are not consistently brushing and flossing and removing biofilm bacteria from your mouth; essentially you are swallowing and digesting it. These harmful bacteria can travel to different locations in your body and cause a host of serious health concerns. Dr. Sandy Crocker, Dr. Peter Mitchell and Associates in Kelowna want you to be proactive in your oral health. Ensure you maintain your regular dental checkups and cleanings to help keep your teeth, gums and entire system as healthy as possible.

Cardiovascular Heart Health in the Okanagan

Bacteria are famous for their ability to travel and spread. Daily brushing, flossing and swishing helps to purge your system from this unwanted, sticky, grossness. Visually inspect your gum line before and after your oral care routine to see if your techniques are successful. Some clients like to use plaque detecting tablets or special mouthwash to determine any areas they may have missed after they think their mouths are clean. Studies have linked periodontitis and gum disease to an increased risk of heart attack and dementia. Book your next dental hygiene appointment with Dr. Sandy Crocker in Kelowna to stay on top of your health and well-being. 

Gingivitis Warning Signs

If you are experiencing red, swollen or bleeding gums, gingivitis may be trying to rear its’ painful head. While red spittle is during brushing may occur if you use your toothbrush too hard or have a cut along your gum line; it shouldn’t be your norm. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and pockets forming that cause the gums to actually detach from the base of the teeth. With the protective gum line disrupted, the plaque bacteria can invade into the roots of the tooth and beyond into the jaw bone causing severe damage. Maintaining your biannual dental checkups is imperative for monitoring any dental changes and addressing issues in their infancy.

Additional Health Concerns Related to Gum Disease

Beyond Heart Disease and Dementia, the following health concerns have been correlated or potentially worsened by poor oral hygiene:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Premature Birth

Experts believe that bacterium from biofilm and plaque can enter the bloodstream and have a negative effect on various parts of the body. Always brush, floss and swish first thing when you wake up prior to eating breakfast and before you go to bed to avoid digesting excess bacteria. Keeping your mouth and gums healthy directly influences your overall health and wellness. Your family may wish to experiment with electric toothbrushes and a Waterpik to obtain optimum plaque removal.

Book Your Dental Exam Today with Kelowna Dentists, Dr. Sandy Crocker & Dr. Peter Mitchell

Our friendly family orientated Kelowna dental clinic located on Springhill Road looks forward to helping you win the war against plaque and gum disease! Book your next dental check up with us today. Some clients may benefit from visiting us more than twice a year; particularly those who have certain health concerns that may affect their circulation including Diabetes. We look forward to working with you soon!