Did you know the cleanliness of your mouth can affect the health of other areas of your body? Research has shown a correlation between dental health and total-body health. At The Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we care about your complete health. That's why we offer a comprehensive approach to oral health care that takes into account the wellness of your whole body! If you're looking for total-body dental care near Long Island, NY, our team has you covered with state-of-the-art care.
During your regular comprehensive patient exam, Dr. Shapiro, Dr. Palmieri, and their team will take time to review your entire health history, including the medications you are taking, your rate of healing, the levels of decay present, indications of infection, and production of saliva. By taking a total-body dentistry approach, we can assess the entirety of your health when recommending any dental procedures or treatments.
Total-Body Health Dentistry & Bacteria in the Mouth
While our body is mostly protected by the skin, our largest organ, there are certain areas that also provide access inside our bodies — including the mouth. Biologically, our body has created saliva as a defense mechanism to reduce or prevent infection-causing bacteria from invading the body.
Saliva does a great job at continuously fighting infection-causing bacteria in the mouth, but when the levels of bacteria outweigh what our saliva can fight, or when saliva levels become reduced due to health issues or medications, an infection can brew in the mouth and begin spreading through the rest of the body. By taking a total-body dentistry approach to your oral health, our team can help you prevent the health issues that originate from the mouth!
Indications of Oral Health Problems
During your dental exams, our team will look for indications of the following:
Gum health: Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an all too common dental disorder. Statistics tell us that about half of adults suffer from some level of gum disease, and there is concern that patients are starting to think the signs are normal. Pink, puffy, irritated gums that may bleed a little when brushing or flossing is not normal — it is an indication of gum disease. It's important to protect the tissues that support your teeth!
The buildup of tartar or calculus: Our teeth are constantly being covered in a sticky substance called plaque. Plaque is a blend of food particles and saliva. It can often be found along the rim of our teeth and gums. When we brush twice a day, it should be your attempt to remove all of this buildup. When it is not removed, plaque can dry and harden into tartar or calculus that should only be removed by a trained hygienist. Tartar is a haven for active decay-causing bacteria, can lead to decay-causing caries, and is the precursor to gum disease.
Cysts, bumps, and other growths: Growths in your mouth are an indication of infection. Pus-filled sacks can grow within the mouth as a sign of defense and are an indication of a larger issue that Dr. Shapiro, Dr. Palmieri, and their total-body health dental team will want to examine.
Experience Total-Body Health Dental Care in Smithtown, NY
At the Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, our dental experts are happy to answer all of your questions about total-body health dentistry and take a comprehensive approach to your oral health. Because your health is important to us, we're here to offer dental tips, tools, and state-of-the-art restorations that can improve more of your health than you may expect!
Call our office today to schedule your total-body health dental appointment. Se habla Español!