Periodontist Orlando, FL | Lake Nona Dental Implants & Periodontics | Blog

Lake Nona Blog

ORLANDO, FL PERIODONTIST

Blog

A Healthy Smile Starts with Healthy Gums | Periodontist in Orlando

Posted on

The idea of a healthy smile is often associated with perfectly aligned white teeth. Many people are unaware that an unhealthy mouth and body are linked. As the foundation for a healthy mouth, gum and periodontal health should not be taken lightly. With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, you can help maintain your oral health.

When your gums are healthy, your teeth are healthy.

Teeth are held in place by the gums, making chewing and biting possible. Healthy gums attach to the root of the tooth and the socket where the tooth is placed. Healthy gums protect the teeth and jawbone from physical damage and disease.

Periodontal disease can lead to serious systemic problems.

It’s essential to take care of your mouth. It is also possible to contract diseases in other parts of the body if you have a persistent infection in your mouth. Infections in the mouth are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke in some cases. Professional periodontal care is critical if you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease. 

 What are the signs that your gums are healthy?

Gums that are in good health are pink and adhere to your teeth. Flossing and brushing them properly shouldn’t cause them to bleed. Please contact our office with questions about your gums, teeth, or oral health or if you would like to make an appointment, give our dental office a call.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Periodontitis Relief | 32827 Periodontist

Posted on

In the United States, there are about 45% of people who have periodontal disease. The various forms of periodontal disease range from mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can affect soft tissue and lead to tooth loss. With our experienced dentist, we treat both new and existing patients suffering from periodontal (gum) disease.

Gum disease is often caused by a lack of proper oral hygiene practices. Maintaining optimal oral health requires daily brushing and flossing and regular exams and cleanings by a professional. Plaque can form on the teeth when these practices are not followed. The plaque may harden over time and turn into tartar if it isn’t properly removed. Once that has occurred, a dental professional should be consulted to remove tartar from teeth.

Tartar may continue to build up if gum disease is not treated promptly. If this happens, gum disease may progress. Without proper oral hygiene can cause the gums to swell, bleed, and redden. To prevent the disease from progressing, professional periodontal treatment is required.

Periodontitis occurs when periodontal disease is not treated. Periodontitis is a more effective form of periodontitis. Periodontitis causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating small “pockets” along the gum line. Without professional assistance, these spaces are challenging to clean and can quickly deteriorate the mouth’s health. A periodontal infection may destroy bone, gums, and soft tissues without prompt and thorough treatment. In adults, periodontal disease is among the leading causes of tooth loss.

Poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, and hormonal changes in women are the most common factors contributing to periodontal disease. It can be more challenging to clean your teeth properly if your gums develop abnormal tissues due to medications. The risk of periodontal disease increases for people receiving treatment for AIDS.

We have a trained and experienced doctor who is trained in diagnosing and treating all stages of periodontal disease. Contact our office for a consultation if you are experiencing periodontal symptoms. The following symptoms may occur: Chronic halitosis (bad breath), sensitive teeth, swollen or red gums, sensitive or bleeding gums, and difficulty chewing. Our periodontist offers excellent periodontal care to patients and welcomes new patients for a consultation. Call us today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Dental History from the Past to the Present | Best Periodontist Orlando FL

Posted on

Dental History from the Past to the Present

Tooth decay results from the presence of “tooth worms.” As a result of the modern medical industry, we now know there are no tooth worms. The evolution of dentistry over time shows how it has become a comfortable and safe science.

From the very beginning,

The ancient Egyptians had dentists who dealt with teeth. According to recent research, the Chinese are thought to have used acupuncture to treat pain associated with tooth decay as early as 2700 BCE.

Aristotle and Hippocrates described using red-hot wires and sterilization procedures to treat teeth and oral diseases in 500 BCE. Additionally, these wires were used to bind loose teeth and stabilize jaw fractures.

The 1600s and 1700s: Visionary Thoughts

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, the 1600s and 1700s were a time of great innovation in the dental world. The Operator of Teeth was the first English dental textbook, published in 1695 by Charles Allen. Among the recommendations he gives in the book are making homemade toothpaste from powdered coal, rose water, and dragon blood. In fact, Allen even mentions wisdom teeth in his book and suggests using dog teeth as organ transplants.

When Pierre Fauchard published The Surgeon Dentist in the 18th century, he was far ahead of his time in medical practice. For the first time, he described dentistry as a profession of the modern age. The book covers several important topics, such as sugar as the cause of dental caries (cavities), braces being used to correct teeth alignment, and the dentist’s chair light. 

Progressivism during the 1800s.

A great deal was discovered and invented during the 1800s. Auguste Taveau created a dental filling made from silver coins and mercury in 1816. Thomas Morton first used ether anesthesia for surgery in 1840, after Horace Wells demonstrated the use of nitrous oxide to sedate patients.

During the same year, Horace Hayden and Chapin Harris created the first dental school, invented the modern doctorate in dental surgery, and established the first dental society to boost modern dentistry. A mechanized dental drill, porcelain inlays, toothpaste tubes, and porcelain inlays were all invented by the end of the 1800s. 

The 1900s were a time of scientific advancement.

As a result of scientific advances in the 1900s, the dental industry saw some fantastic developments. With the invention of electricity, electric drills became available. Novocain was introduced by US dentists in 1907, together with precision case fillings made by a lost wax casting machine.

The method of tooth bonding was described in 1955 by Michael Buonocore for repairing cracked enamel. As a result, the first fully-reclining dental chair was introduced to ease patients’ and dentists’ discomfort. The first at-home systems for bleaching teeth also appeared in the 1990s, as did “invisible” braces. 

 Where Does Dentistry Go From Here?

Nowadays, dental professionals are examining the connection between oral and overall health. It is becoming increasingly popular to use gene-mediated therapeutics to alter the genetic structure of teeth to increase their resistance to decay. There is hope that teeth can be built back up again around weakened enamel. We can’t predict what the future of dentistry will bring, but we are committed to acquiring the most influential modern technology when it becomes available. 

 Experience the benefits of modern dentistry by scheduling an appointment with our office.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Probiotics: Not Just For Digestion | 32827 Periodontist

Posted on

Probiotics are typically advertised as being helpful for digestion. However, studies have shown that they can also improve oral health, along with providing benefits to various other parts of your body. Probiotics are beneficial for fighting infections that lead to oral disease. They have the following effects on gum tissue and oral health:

Reducing Gingivitis

A study published in Contemporary Clinical Dentistry has found that probiotics can reduce bleeding gums and inflammation in patients with moderate to severe gingivitis. In the trial, children were given either a placebo or two different combinations of probiotics. At the three-week mark, it was discovered that children who took probiotics had significant improvements in their gingival health. 

Combating Periodontitis

Periodontitis is another oral disease that probiotics have been shown to fight. Periodontitis is caused by harmful bacteria that separate teeth from the gums by destroying tissue fibers, creating pockets that can become infected. Probiotics can fight harmful bacteria and lessen inflammation to help keep the disease in check. 

Fighting Tooth Decay

Another finding from the trial of the Contemporary Clinical Dentistry showed that children who took probiotics also saw a significant decrease in plaque. The reduction of plaque leads to less decay. Probiotics fight the plaque and occupy the spaces on the teeth where bad bacteria thrive.

Minimizing Bad Breath

A less common benefit of probiotics is the effect that they have on bad breath. Bad breath is usually caused by volatile sulfur compound bacteria releasing odor-causing gases. Because probiotics are healthy bacteria, it is believed that they can eliminate the bad bacteria and maintain a healthy bacteria balance in your mouth.

The benefits of probiotics are not just limited to digestive health. Researchers continue to conduct studies to discover new ways that probiotics contribute to a healthy mouth and body. They fight off bad bacteria, reducing the amount of inflammation and plaque in your mouth. They also combat any kind of systemic inflammation. Contact our team for more information on oral health or to schedule a visit today.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Plaque: The Dental Villain | Periodontist Orlando

Posted on

When buying a toothbrush, listening to dental advertisements,  or when coming in to our office, you often hear the word “plaque” associated with the health of your teeth. Plaque is one of the main reasons why it is so important to keep up with a daily oral hygiene  routine that includes brushing two times each day for at least two minutes, and flossing regularly as well. Here’s what you need to know about plaque and what it can do to your smile.

What Is It Exactly? 

If you haven’t brushed your teeth in a while, you might feel a film-like, sticky buildup on your teeth. By the end of the day you most likely start to feel your teeth getting “fuzzy”.  This layer is plaque, a bacteria layer that grips onto and grows on your teeth. There isn’t anything you can do to stop plaque from forming, but brushing and flossing, as well as keeping up with regular dental visits, are your best defenses for cleaning plaque off of your teeth.

Why Is Plaque So Harmful?

Without regular brushing and cleaning, plaque builds up and multiplies. As plaque is left

untreated, it hardens to form tartar (also known as calculus). Plaque also leads to decay, as it produces an acid that damages your teeth. When you come into our office for a dental examination, we thoroughly clean your teeth to ensure that any buildup is taken care of. Tartar can cause staining on your teeth and gum tissue inflammation if left untreated. Plaque is the leading cause of gingivitis, causing your gums to swell and become red or bloody.

How To Keep Plaque Away

The most important step in keeping plaque at bay is to stick to a daily brushing routine. This means brushing twice each day, for two minutes each time, and flossing at least once daily. Plaque occurs naturally, and when you come into our office for a complete examination, we work with you to clean off any build-up. Maintaining regular visits to our office is one way to ensure tartar build-up is minimized and managed. It is particularly important that you are brushing your teeth all the way to the gum, because the gum line is an area that is prone to plaque buildup. Brush gently, as vigorous brushing will only do more damage than good, especially to your gums.

Sticking to your daily brushing and flossing routine will help keep your teeth free of plaque build-up. Make sure you are brushing in the morning and before bed. If you don’t brush before bed, bacteria and plaque will build up throughout the night. Schedule a visit to our office so our experienced, professional dental team can clean your teeth, giving you a smile you can be proud of.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

What You Need to Know About Tooth Decay | Periodontist Near Me

Posted on

Painful, infected teeth are not a pleasant experience, but they are common symptoms of tooth decay. However, the good news is that tooth decay is preventable. Your best defense against decay is a proper daily oral hygiene routine, as well as regular visits to our office. It can be helpful to know more about tooth decay and what causes it so that you are better equipped with the knowledge to prevent it.

Sugar is Not the Sole Cause 

Sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay. Sugar build-up and deposits on your teeth lead to the erosion of the tooth. While it is important to be mindful of the sugary products you are consuming, sugar is not the only culprit in causing tooth decay. Acids can also damage your teeth. Foods that are high in acidic content can speed up the process of decay. Our periodontist suggests you avoid drinks and candies with high sugar or acid content.

If you do find yourself consuming such things, make sure to keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research recommends avoiding snacks between meals, limiting sugary drinks and fruit juices, and not eating or drinking before bedtime after brushing.

Decay Isn’t Always Noticeable 

Decay doesn’t always have noticeable signs. By the time you feel discomfort, it could be a sign that the decay has spread beyond one tooth. In other words, by the time you do feel it , the decay is usually fairly deep into the tooth. This can be prevented by regular visits to our office. Our periodontist can help identify potential issues early on and you will receive the best possible treatments for your teeth.

Fillings Are Not Indestructible

Previous fillings do not mean that your teeth are free of decay forever. It is essential that you maintain proper daily care of your teeth. It is possible to develop decay around existing fillings, so be sure you are still diligent with your oral hygiene. If your existing fillings are giving you trouble, schedule an appointment to see your dentist. 

No Age Discrimination 

All age groups are at risk of developing tooth decay. Parents should keep an eye on their children’s sugary snacks and treats, but this advice holds true for everyone. Senior citizens are particularly vulnerable because of certain medications that can damage their teeth or cause dry mouth.  It is essential that all age groups are receiving twice-yearly dental examinations.

Tooth decay is a common dental issue. However, with the right knowledge you can prevent damage to your teeth. Watch your diet and make sure you limit sugary candies and snacks. Remember, you won’t always be able to see or feel decay, so contact our office to schedule a regular visit.

For more helpful tips on preventing decay, or to schedule an appointment, contact our office.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

A Drink That Can Destroy Your Oral Health | Periodontist Orlando FL

Posted on
32827 periodontist

If carbonated soft drinks are part of your normal daily routine, you may be causing serious damage to your teeth. Recent studies have found soft drinks to be among the most potent dietary causes of tooth decay. Soft drinks have also been implicated in increases of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other serious health conditions. Before you shop for beverages this week, consider a few things you should know about soft drinks.

Most soft drinks contain substantial amounts of sugars, which interact with the bacteria in your mouth. This interaction produces a form of acid that can damage your teeth for about 20 minutes. Each time you take a drink, you reset that time window. If you consume throughout the day, you are essentially bathing your teeth in that beverage for hours. 

Most soft drinks contain acids, as well. Even sugar-free varieties contain acids that can weaken the enamel on your teeth. Colas and citrus-flavored soft drinks tend to have the highest levels of acid. Over time, this weakening of tooth enamel has a cumulative effect. This can lead to decay and even tooth loss if not addressed in early stages.

Obviously, the best solution is to stop consuming carbonated soft drinks. However, it can be a difficult habit to break. Here are some tips to help reduce your risks of tooth damage from these beverages:

  • Drink in moderation. Too much sugar and acid will eventually cause damage. Swap out soda for fruit-infused water. 
  • Drink more water. You will crave soft drinks less when you are fully hydrated.
  • Don’t sip. The longer you spend drinking, the more time sugars and acids are reacting with your teeth.
  • Use a straw. This can help keep the sugars and acids away from your teeth.
  • Rinse with water after drinking to dilute acids and sugars.
  • Don’t brush immediately. Wait at least 30 minutes for acids to be neutralized by saliva before brushing.
  • Practice good dental hygiene. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings and exams.

Carbonated soft drinks can be harmful to your oral and overall health. Be mindful of how often you consume them and consider reducing or stopping your use of these dangerous beverages. For more oral health tips or to schedule an appointment, contact our office.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

The 411 On Periodontal Disease | Orlando Periodontist

Posted on


Maintaining your gum health is vital to your overall health. When you visit our office for an examination, our trained hygienists perform a periodontal exam. In fact, during your examination, our team is assessing your oral health by checking a number of different factors. Here are the most important things that you need to know about periodontal disease.

A Disease With Many Names 

You may have heard periodontal disease referred to as gum disease or gingivitis. Periodontal disease is the inflammation and infection of your gums. These names are frequently used interchangeably.

Signs & Symptoms

Periodontal disease may be marked by swollen and red gums. Bleeding, especially while brushing and flossing, may also occur. Another symptom of periodontal disease is persistent bad breath. Eventually periodontal disease can lead to loose teeth because of loss of the bone structure around the teeth. If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, please contact our office.

The Link To Systemic Health

Your gum health is linked to your overall health. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to bleeding gums, gum recession, and tooth loss. The effects of periodontal disease extend well beyond your mouth. In fact, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, the disease can increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and stroke.

While you may think of your teeth as the primary reason to visit our office for a regular examination, understand that our team is looking beyond your teeth to assess your oral health and potential impacts on your overall health. Talk to our experienced team if you experience any signs or symptoms of periodontal disease.

Our team is trained to identify signs of periodontal disease. When detected early and managed properly, periodontal disease can be stabilized.  For more information regarding your gum health, please contact our office, or schedule a consultation.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Floss Your Way To Better Health | Periodontist Orlando, FL

Posted on

Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bleeding gums are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal, or gum, disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can also begin without any obvious symptoms. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you could be at risk for irreparable damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. In fact, one of the most effective tools for preventing the disease only takes a minute of your time each day. 

Floss the Teeth You Want To Keep 

Dental floss is an effective and easy-to-use tool that can be among your best defenses for preventing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Even if your daily oral hygiene routine already includes a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes, at least twice each day, you should be flossing daily as well. Dental floss is highly effective at cleaning areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth catch food debris and bacteria. Flossing helps to clean out these tough to reach spaces.

Flossing 101

According to a survey referenced by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss each day. The same study showed a clear link between regular intra-oral care and better oral health. Unfortunately, many people also lie about

how frequently they clean between their teeth. A study from the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults lie to their dentist about their flossing habits.

The Correct Technique

It can be confusing to figure out the best way to use dental floss. Try cutting off about 18 inches of floss and wrapping most of it carefully around your middle finger. Use roughly one inch to clean between each pair of teeth. Using your thumb and index finger, carefully slide the floss between your teeth. Floss to your gumline, but be gentle. Wrap the floss in a C-shape around the sides of each tooth. Work your way through your 18 inches of floss by using a new, clean section between each pair of adjacent teeth. 

It only takes about a minute to floss your teeth each day, but these minutes contribute to a lifetime of optimal oral health. Floss is among the most effective tools at your disposal to keep your gums clean and healthy. Get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly– your body will thank you.

For more information about gum health, or to schedule a visit to our office, please contact our team.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Alzheimer’s Disease Connected to Gum Health | Periodontist Orlando

Posted on

A connection between gum disease and an increased cognitive decline for people living with the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease has been discovered in a recent study. More evidence is needed to make an absolute connection, but it’s important to continue the conversation with research on oral health and its effect on your whole body.

The Study

King’s College London and the University of Southampton conducted a study observing 59 patients dealing with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. There were blood tests done to examine inflammatory markers present in the bloodstream, combined with dental exams done to investigate dental health.

Study participants who had gum disease displayed cognitive decline 6 times faster than those without gum disease. The key takeaway is that the body’s reaction to inflammation might be the cause of the rapid decline in cognition.

Why Healthy Gums Are So Important

By making sure your gums are healthy, it ensures the rest of your body will stay healthy as well. Previous studies have shown that your risk of developing heart disease and stroke can increase from gum disease. By brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes and flossing regularly, the healthy oral habits will ensure healthy gums. 

It is important for all of us to maintain good oral health, but especially those living with Alzheimer’s disease. If someone you love is affected by this disease, make sure they are visiting our office for regular examinations and are following a everyday hygiene routine. Healthy gums are the key to keeping the rest of your body healthy for a lifetime. 

Please contact our office for more information about gum health and to schedule your next visit. 

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
Phone: (407) 535-9802
9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100
Orlando, FL 32827

Visit Our Orlando Dental Office

Orlando, FL Periodontist | Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics
(407) 535-9802 | 9145 Narcoossee Rd. Suite A-100, Orlando, FL 32827

Read Our Orlando Dental News

Periodontist in Orlando, FL

A Healthy Smile Starts with Healthy Gums | Periodontist in Orlando

March 15th 2024

The idea of a healthy smile is often associated with perfectly aligned white teeth. Many people are unaware that an unhealthy mouth and body are linked. As the foundation for a healthy mouth, gum and periodontal health should not be...

Periodontitis Relief | 32827 Periodontist

March 1st 2024

In the United States, there are about 45% of people who have periodontal disease. The various forms of periodontal disease range from mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can affect...

Orlando Periodontist

Dental History from the Past to the Present | Best Periodontist Orlando FL

February 15th 2024

Dental History from the Past to the Present Tooth decay results from the presence of "tooth worms." As a result of the modern medical industry, we now know there are no tooth worms. The evolution of dentistry over time shows...

Periodontist Orlando FL