Request Request Appointment Like Us Like us on Facebook Reviews Read Our Reviews Call Give us a Call Map View our Map

May 23, 2014

What is Plaque? Helpful Information from Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

Shutterstock FlossingYou hear a lot about plaque in toothpaste commercials on television, but what is it, really? How does it affect your oral health? At Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto provide patients with a variety of general dentistry services, including comprehensive cleanings to keep plaque, cavities, and other problems at bay.

Understanding Plaque and Bacteria

Plaque is a sticky substance that gradually builds up on the surfaces of your teeth and gums, harboring millions of acid-producing bacteria. When not properly removed during brushing or flossing, this bacteria causes dental caries, or cavities, in your tooth enamel.

Failure to remove plaque from all surfaces of the teeth can lead to the development of tartar along the gum line, a major factor in periodontal disease. More commonly referred to simply as gum disease, this widespread oral health condition affects three out of four American adults and can lead to a variety of health problems when left untreated. In fact, gum disease has even been linked to an increased risk for heart disease, some forms of cancer, dementia, and complications during pregnancy.

Fortunately, routine general dentistry visits to Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry – in conjunction with a daily brushing and flossing regimen at home – can help protect your teeth and gums from plaque and tartar buildup.

Quality General Dentistry Services for Families in Owasso

If it has been more than six months since your last routine checkup and cleaning at Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our caring, experienced team. Our doctors and staff proudly serve families from throughout the Owasso area as well as surrounding communities in Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville, and beyond. We can’t wait to show you how our commitment to quality dental care can help you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful smile.

February 14, 2014

Oral and Overall Health

What if we told you there was a connection between oral and overall health. Would you be surprised? Recent data suggests that there is indeed a connection and that the specific link is gum disease, an incredibly common oral health condition that’s also the number one cause of tooth loss in adults.

Gum disease is the result of bacteria and plaque building up around the gum line. Symptoms of the condition include:

  • Swollen or sensitive gums
  • Gums that bleed when you brush
  • Recurring bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Pockets between teeth and gums

The first half of this list applies largely to mild cases of gum disease. The second half of the list describes more advanced cases. Once pockets have developed, the bacteria and plaque of gum disease can use them to travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

A wide variety of health problems have been connection to gum disease, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Alzheimer’s
  • Hypertension
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Pre-term or low birth weight

Enjoying good oral and overall health means doing two things. First, it means sticking to a good oral health routine. Second, it means visiting Drake & Voto at least twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups with Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto.

Is it time for your next appointment with our Owasso dental team? Call us today for an appointment. Dr. Drake and Dr. Voto serve patients from Owasso, Claremore, Collinsville, Tulsa, Sperry, Skiatook, and beyond.