Research continues to show how a healthy mouth relates to your overall health. For example, a recent study of 3,000 individuals in Sweden showed those with gum disease and missing teeth had greater than 11 times the risk for breast cancer. Past studies have already associated gum disease with heart disease, stroke, pancreatic cancer, and premature babies.

Gum disease begins with the formation of plaque, a bacterial film on the teeth and gums. As gum disease progresses, it can lead to bad breath, tender and bleeding gums, and eventual tooth loss. Gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss.

Although poor oral hygiene or failure to have regular dental cleanings are frequently blamed for gum disease, other factors can contribute. These include genetics, certain health problems that affect the immune system (leukemia, diabetes, AIDS, etc.), medical conditions or treatments that deplete saliva, smoking, stress, and diet.

To combat gum disease, your level of gum disease is first established. Naturally, the sooner it is treated, the less time and expense is required. Treatment may involve deep cleaning below the gum line, gum surgery, bone grafts and antibiotics.

If you suspect you have gum disease, it will only worsen without treatment. Call (828) 274-9440 promptly for a complete examination and treatment recommendations. Restoring your mouth to a healthy state is a positive way to avoid the risk for more serious health issues.

The Heart Attack Connection: According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people who have periodontal (gum) disease are twice as likely to get heart disease. Research has also shown that the more dental problems one has (missing teeth, cavities), the higher their risk of having heart disease.

The Stroke Connection:  A study published by the American Heart Association shows that people with higher blood levels of oral bacteria had greater risks of getting atherosclerosis in the neck’s carotid artery, which increases one’s potential for stroke.

Although it has not been determined how gum disease affects stroke and heart attack risk, it is known that oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through diseased tissues in the mouth. Once bloodborne, this bacteria causes a plaque clogging artery, leading to a higher risk for major – even deadly – consequences. As a Periodontist, this is further proof that the link to your oral health and your overall health should be taken seriously.

Some helpful news was recently released in the Journal of Periodontology, however. Apparently, people who consume at least 180 mg of Vitamin C per day give gums and teeth a healthy boost. Vitamin C is an anti-inflammatory that binds cells to build connective tissue with collagen. It also increases bone regrowth, which helps to restore healthy gums and teeth.

Recommended sources of vitamin C include coconut water, citrus fruits, red peppers, brussels sprouts, broccoli and oranges. Because chewable vitamin C is highly acidic, it can erode tooth enamel and should be avoided. A non-acidic vitamin C can be purchased in a white powder form if your diet falls short of vitamin C rich foods. Another option is vitamin C chewing gum.

Healthy teeth and gums create a more attractive smile, help you avoid bad breath and help you avoid tooth loss. While foods and vitamins are beneficial in maintaining a healthy mouth, starting with a ‘clean slate’ is to your advantage. If you haven’t seen your dentist on a regular basis and do not floss daily, arrange a periodontal examination by calling (828) 274-9440.

When you also consider that a healthy mouth can help you avoid heart attack and stroke, that’s a significant reason to be committed to your oral health.

If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone. It is estimated that over 30% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of some level of anxiety or fear. Even worse, about 10% of those are classified as “dental phobics,” or persons with such a high fear level that they avoid the dentist until an emergency need arises.

With these statistics, it comes as no surprise that the nation’s leading cause of tooth loss is periodontal disease. Without 6-month check-ups and cleanings, your risk of developing gum disease, among other problems, is high.

If the fear of discomfort has prevented you from regular dental care, you are encouraged to share those feelings with a dentist who is sensitive to your concerns. This discussion will allow us to understand your level of fear and explain the methods of comfort available.
In our office, we offer both Oral Sedation, which is in pill form so there are no needles used to administer the medication. You are totally relaxed throughout treatment and have little or no memory of the procedure afterward. The medication is safe and recovery time is quick. For added safety and comfort, you are monitored by a trained staff member and sophisticated equipment throughout your procedure.

I believe the confidence of a beautiful, healthy smile enhances one’s quality of life and every person should feel achieving this is within reach. Hopefully, the advancements in dental techniques and technology will result in a new generation who live their lifetime with all their natural teeth.

If you have dental fear or know someone who does, suggest they begin with a consultation by calling (828) 274-9440. This conversation could be the first step to a terrific smile!

The leading cause of tooth loss in the U.S. is Periodontal (gum) Disease. Yet, our general population is largely unaware of this. Although treating gum disease requires less time and expense in its early stages, the expertise of a Periodontist to treat all stages of gum disease can often save teeth for those who even have advanced stages.

As a Periodontal Specialist, our ultimate goal is to restore your mouth to a healthy state, helping you avoid tooth loss and the health risk of inflammation throughout your entire body. While some general dentists may see a tooth as “hopeless,” we are often able to save many teeth from extraction. Why is it so important to save your natural teeth?

There is a domino effect with tooth loss. Once you lose a natural tooth, studies show the next one lost will be an adjacent tooth, and so on. Replacing teeth can be an expensive process, even for denture and partial wearers. While dentures and partials may seem a less-costly method, over time, they can cause devastating health problems. Not only will biting and chewing become more difficult, your overall health declines after tooth loss.

Denture wears tend to take more medications, avoid social gatherings, and have more gastro-intestinal problems than those with their natural teeth. It is estimated that denture wearers die at an age that is ten years younger than those with their own teeth, on average.

Make every effort possible to save your natural teeth. This begins with keeping a healthy mouth and maintaining regular dental cleanings. When a tooth cannot be saved, replacing it with Dental Implants is your wisest investment. Dental Implants are designed to last a lifetime and are the closest thing to your own, natural teeth.

Keep in mind that there is a good reason your dentist doesn’t wear dentures (and never will!). Saving a tooth is worth all you can give it. Before giving in to removal, see a Periodontal Specialist. You may find your tooth is anything but “hopeless.”

Call (828) 274-9440 for more information or to arrange a Consultation appointment.