Men’s Sexual Health Tied To Periodontal Health

Posted on Jan 07, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

A recent study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine has revealed that men in their 30s with severe gum disease are 3 times more likely to have erection problems. This comes after past research has shown that periodontal disease may be linked to heart disease, which is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. Although there are no claims that one disease causes the other, the association is thought to be related to inflammation brought on by gum disease bacteria.

These are all valid reasons that men should take an active role in the health of their teeth and gums before other areas of the body are affected. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention estimate that almost half of U.S. adults have periodontal disease. Of that, 56% of men have periodontal disease, compared to over 38% of women.

Other areas where periodontal health has been associated with the status of men’s health, in particular, include prostate health, heart disease, impotence and cancer. For example, research has found that men with a history of gum disease are 14% more likely to develop cancer than men with healthy gums. Additionally, 49% of men are more likely to develop kidney cancer, 59% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer and 30% more likely to develop blood cancer.

Men need to do a better job of protecting their overall health by keeping their periodontal health at an excellent level. Symptoms of gum disease include gums that bleed when brushing, sore or swollen spots on gums, persistent bad breath, and gums that are red rather than a healthy pink color. If you have any of these symptoms, call (828) 274-9440 for an examination appointment as soon as possible. Gum disease will not improve without treatment.

Measure Your Risk For Dental Problems

Posted on Oct 22, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

You’d rather avoid a cavity altogether than have it repaired – right? Although daily home care and regular dental cleanings help prevent problems from occurring, some people are more susceptible to decay than others. The following can place you at higher risk:
High Levels Of Bacteria – All people have bacteria in their bodies; however, two kinds (abbreviated as SM and LB) are especially harmful to teeth. Those who have higher levels of these bacteria are naturally at greater risk for tooth decay. These bacteria are also contagious.
Poor Saliva – Saliva helps to move bacteria out of the mouth. Certain medications, age, or particular foods and beverages can contribute to dry mouth.
Deep Pits & Grooves – Back teeth, especially, have pits and grooves which can harbor bacteria. Some people have very deep pits and grooves, creating a warm, moist, dark hideout that is ideal for bacteria growth.
High Sugar Diet – Bacteria in your mouth thrive on refined sugar. From this, an acid is produced which attacks tooth enamel.
Exposed Tooth Roots – Aging, overzealous brushing, or an improper bite can cause gums to pull away from teeth, exposing tooth roots. While this distracts from the appearance of your smile, it also increases the potential for decay to occur in this susceptible area of the tooth.

Now that you know what “ups” your risk for cavities, here are some tips to help you prevent them in the first place!
• Keep your mouth moist by drinking plenty of water. If you are taking medications that are drying, ask your doctor or pharmacist if there are alternative medications that are less drying to your mouth. Decrease your intake of alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods. If you smoke, give it up!
• Bacteria levels can be kept under control with the help of antibacterial rinses. Those that contain chlorhexidine are best for tackling harmful bacteria in the mouth.
• Teeth with deep grooves and pits can be protected in several ways. Sealants can cover these areas on a temporary basis. For extended protection, replacing fillings with inlays, onlays or crowns help to shield the tooth.
• Watch what you eat and how often you eat. Eat healthy. Anytime you consume a food or beverage (other than water), your mouth responds by producing acid. This acid attacks tooth enamel. The acid from refined sugar is most harmful.
• Be committed to your daily oral care regimen. Twice daily brushing and flossing will improve your odds for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Baby Boomer? Oral Symptoms Can Reveal Serious Problems!

Posted on Oct 18, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

A survey commissioned by the Academy of General Dentistry found 63% of those age 45 to 65 with an oral symptom were unaware some are warning signs of adult onset diseases. For instance, the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and health disease increases with age. Researchers believe that these diseases often manifest themselves in the mouth.

According to the American Diabetes Association, the majority of diabetics suffer from Type 2 diabetes, which usually begins after age 45. Initial indicators of this disease are bad breath and bleeding gums. However, only 29% of the baby boomers surveyed were aware of this connection.

After the age of 45, the risk for developing heart disease triples. Although heart disease is the leading killer of Americans, a sore and painful jaw is often overlooked as a warning signal. As a matter of fact, 60% of those surveyed were unaware these symptoms could be signs of a potential heart attack.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 44 million American adults have risk for osteoporosis, with a greater risk for menopausal and post-menopausal women. Yet, 97% of women do not discuss this with their dentist.

While the health and appearance of your smile is our emphasis, your overall well-being is also important. Please share any unusual symptoms you are experiencing or any change in your medical status.

Terms You Need To Know!

Posted on Sep 20, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

You may occasionally hear unfamiliar dental terms that relate to periodontal (gum) disease. I felt it would be helpful to provide explanations of various terms along with their sequence in the development of periodontal disease.

Dental Plaque – is a sticky film that forms on the teeth. Dental plaque is an accumulation of bacteria and what causes periodontal disease. If plaque is not removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into calculus.

Calculus – is dental plaque that hardens and cannot be removed by brushing or flossing, only by a dental professional using specific tools. Also referred to as tartar, calculus is typically rough and porous.

Gingivitis – is the initial stage of periodontal disease. When the bacteria in dental plaque is not removed on a daily basis, gingivitis will cause the gum tissue to turn red, sore and bleed easily.

Periodontal Pockets – are created by toxins in plaque that attack the gum tissues below the gum line. As the gums pull away from the teeth, a pocket forms, which fills with plaque and infection. Eventually, the bone and connecting tissues around the tooth can become so damaged that the tooth will loosen and require extraction.

Root Scaling & Planing – is a non-surgical procedure that removes plaque and calculus from periodontal pockets and around tooth roots to promote healing.

Periodontitis – is the stage of periodontal disease that causes inflammation in supporting tissues of teeth as well as bone loss. Periodontitis is prevalent in adults, but can occur at any age. Research has shown this bacteria can contribute to inflammation elsewhere in the body, resulting in severe health risks.

When caught early, time and expense in treatment is far less than trying to combat periodontal disease in latter stages. If you suspect you have gum disease, please contact us (828) 274-9440 promptly for an examination.