When we think of vaping, we often think of it as a safer option to smoking cigarettes. Unfortunately, recent studies suggest that e-cigarette vapors could have a damaging effect on your mouth.

Ingredients in E-Juice

Electronic cigarettes are not regulated in the same way that other tobacco products are, meaning that there is little knowledge of the exact ingredients. There are a number of harmful substances found in E-juice including nicotine, glycerin, chemical flavoring, propylene glycol, and more.

Some of these ingredients can be proven safe in things like artificial flavoring in foods, but the effects they can have when heated, turned into a vapor and then inhaled, have not been researched fully.

Vaping and Oral Health

According to a recent study done from UCLA, vapors from an e-cigarette can kill the cells in your oral cavity which is the area of your mouth even beyond your teeth and gums. There was an experiment conducted where e-cigarette smoke was placed with oral cells in an environment

for 24 hours, and 85% of the exposed cells died.

As these cells die, or become less effective, your mouth can become more likely to develop oral diseases. What is worrying about this is that these oral cavity cells function as an important part of your body’s natural defense system.

According to another study run by the University of Rochester Medical Center, it was concluded that e-cigarettes can be equally as bad for your gums as regular tobacco products. A known factor contributing to gum disease is nicotine which is found in all types of cigarettes.

What Steps Can You Take?

It is best to avoid smoking regular cigarettes and e-cigarettes, because they have both been shown to cause similar oral health problems. By using these products you are putting yourself at risk by negatively impacting the cells in your mouth that your body uses to defend itself against dangerous bacteria.

If you are a smoker of any type, make sure you are regularly visiting our office. Our experienced dental team will give you a complete oral exam and check for signs of oral diseases, including cancer.

Contact Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics today for more healthy mouth tips and to schedule your next visit.

Do you see flecks of blood while brushing or flossing your teeth? Swollen, red, or tender gums can bleed during your regular oral hygiene routine, even if you feel you are being gentle. It is important that you do not ignore these symptoms as they may indicate a periodontal issue. 

Here are four reasons why your gums may be bleeding, and what you can do to prevent it. 

Gingivitis

Plaque and bacteria can build up on your teeth and become inflamed; yet because bleeding gums are usually painless, this symptom is shrugged off as unimportant. It is likely a sign of early periodontal disease known as gingivitis. The good news is that this condition can be treated and even reversed when caught early. It is also preventable by brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily to reduce plaque build-up, and scheduling regular dental examinations and cleanings. 

Schedule an appointment with our office or ask for a referral if you suspect you have gingivitis. 

Oral Hygiene Habits

If your gums bleed during your regular at-home oral hygiene routine, make sure you are not brushing too vigorously or flossing your gumline too hard. Don’t skip days of brushing and flossing and then make up for it with an overly vigorous cleaning.

Smoking and Periodontal Disease

Inhaling cigarette smoke can leave toxins on the teeth that irritate gums and cause them to bleed. Smoking can also compromise your immune system and prevent gum tissue from healing correctly. Quitting cigarettes can help reduce bleeding gums. If you smoke, be sure to keep up with oral examinations to evaluate your gum health at regular intervals.

Gum Disease and Your Diet

Good nutrition benefits every aspect of your health. Research shows proper oral hygiene along with a balanced diet can reduce the risk of gum problems. Crisp-skinned fruit and crudites (raw vegetables) are particularly good because they clean tooth surfaces and produce saliva. They make excellent, healthy snacks. Foods and beverages high in sugar, starch and acids, however, can cause tooth decay and lead to poor oral health. 

For a healthier body, start by paying extra attention to your gums. If they bleed regularly, contact our periodontal office or get a referral. Our Orlando FL Periodontist can provide a complete examination of the gingival tissue and recommend proper treatment. Contact Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics today.

About 20 percent of total tooth loss cases are linked to diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. This common metabolic disease affects the entire body, including the mouth and teeth. If you’re among the 463 million Americans living with diabetes, keeping blood sugar in check, following your physician’s recommendations, and keeping up with regular dental visits will help you maintain good oral and overall health. 

Here are five ways diabetes can impact your teeth and gums:

Gum Disease and High Blood Sugar Levels

Research suggests that if your blood sugar isn’t under control, it can worsen periodontal (gum) disease. Severe gum disease can break down the bone that supports your teeth and lead to tooth loss, One early warning sign of potential periodontal disease is bleeding while you brush or floss. At this stage, the condition can be treated and even reversed by maintaining proper oral hygiene, following a regular dental exam schedule, and eating a balanced diet. 

Mouth Infections and Diabetes

Diabetes affects your immune system and can make you prone to mouth infections. Oral thrush, or candidiasis, is an overgrowth of normal mouth bacteria and is not uncommon among diabetics. It resembles a white film on the tongue and inside of the cheeks, and is a reaction to the yeast thriving on high sugar levels in saliva. Oral thrush can be treated with antifungal medications. 

Slow Healing and Diabetes

Diabetes can slow the healing process of sores, cuts, and injuries in your mouth. Poor blood sugar control prevents sores from healing quickly and properly. Be sure to see our periodontist if a sore in your mouth is not healing properly. 

Diabetes and Dry Mouth

According to studies, many people with diabetes make less saliva. Symptoms may include a dry tongue, cracked lips, and constantly feeling thirsty. Some medications and higher blood sugar levels contribute to dry mouth. You can treat this by carefully managing your sugar levels, drinking plenty of water, and eating healthy, crunchy foods to get your saliva flowing. 

Altered Sense of Taste

Diabetes can change the way you process flavors; some foods may seem blander then they used to. Consider this an opportunity to explore new cuisines, spices, herbs, and textures. However, be cautious about adding sugar to your food, as it could negatively affect your condition. 

If you are among the 10.5 percent of Americans living with diabetes and want more information on how it impacts your gum health, contact Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics. We are happy to answer your questions. 

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is caused by an infection from dental plaque that hardens and turns into calculus (tartar) and can’t be removed at home. This condition is preventable through proper oral care, and treatable by our periodontist. 

How much do you know about periodontal disease? Here are some of the top gum disease myths and facts. 

MYTH: If you don’t have tooth decay, you won’t get gum disease. 

FACT: Many people with no decay may indeed have gum disease and not realize it immediately. Gums that bleed or swell, or are red or tender, may be facing the earliest stage: gingivitis. Make sure to see your dentist for a professional cleaning, and brush and floss daily to prevent infection. 

MYTH: Bad breath is a sure sign of gum disease.

FACT: While halitosis can be an indicator of gum disease, it can also be linked to poor brushing habits, diet, an ulcer, or another medical condition. If professional dental intervention and good at-home oral care don’t clear up your sour breath, see your primary care physician to investigate medical causes.  

MYTH: Gum disease will cause you to lose your teeth.

FACT: You do not have to lose any of your teeth to neglect if you see your dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene at home: Brush, floss, and clean between your teeth every day. Eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of plain water. If your gums show signs of disease, our periodontist can create a treatment plan for you.

MYTH: Gum disease is not common.

FACT: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about half of adults 30 and older have some degree of periodontal disease. It can form at nearly any age and intensifies over time. Never put off a visit if you suspect a gum problem. 

MYTH: Pregnancy and bleeding gums go hand in hand.

FACT: “Pregnancy gingivitis” develops in some women, but it is not a universal condition. It is caused by the bacterial film that grows on the teeth and results in a buildup of plaque. Those who suffer from this problem usually experience it in their first trimester. If you are pregnant or considering parenthood in the near future, you can help prevent gum disease by taking good care of your oral health. Your Orlando Periodontist may also recommend more frequent examinations and cleanings.

For more information on periodontal disease and how to prevent it, contact Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics or ask your Orlando Periodontist for a referral. 

How important is your smile? The Academy of General Dentistry reports that 40 percent of people notice a smile first, and 96 percent say healthy-looking teeth and gums are important to an overall appearance. This is amplified on big occasions: a job interview, a wedding, a date or any time you need to make a great impression. A nice smile adds confidence. 

Of course, not everyone is born with a perfect set of teeth, but with some effort and great dentistry, an attractive smile is certainly achievable. Here are seven top ways to improve your smile.  

Teeth Whitening

Whether you use an at-home set of trays or an in-office treatment, your teeth can look several shades whiter. To keep them from getting dingy in the first place and prolong teeth bleaching effects, rinse or brush after consuming top stain culprits like coffee, tea, red wine, or dark fruits.   

 Dental Crowns

If you have decay that threatens the health of the tooth, your dentist can place a crown, or dental cap, on the repaired tooth. It covers the tooth completely for optimal function and a natural look.   

Porcelain Veneers

Dental veneers are custom-made laminates bonded to the front of one or more teeth. They are used to alter tooth color, shape, length or size to transform a smile. 

Tooth Bonding

Also called dental bonding, this cosmetic procedure repairs a cracked or chipped tooth. They can make uneven teeth look more symmetrical and close a gap between teeth. 

Orthodontics 

Straight teeth not only look better, they function better, too, aligning them so they work together and are easier to keep clean. Your dentist or orthodontist can advise you whether braces or aligners would work best for your case. 

Dental Implants

Implants are the modern way to replace teeth lost to decay or trauma. They are also an optimal solution for people born without certain teeth. Dental implants are permanent, so they function more naturally than dentures and bridges. Our periodontist can replace missing teeth safely and effectively with this procedure.

Excellent Dental Care

There are many options for improving your smile professionally; but one thing you can do for yourself is maintain good oral health. That means being fastidious about brushing two minutes twice a day and flossing daily, and seeing your general dentist for regular professional cleanings and examinations. 

Good dental habits and certain cosmetic procedures can also help keep your gums healthy, and that is our specialty. Schedule an appointment with Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics or ask your Orlando FL Periodontist for a referral if you have concerns about your gum health or want to explore dental implants. 

Here are more reasons to take good care of your teeth and gums: A growing body of research shows that keeping your gums healthy may lower your risk of developing serious physical conditions. Early intervention by our periodontist can also go a long way toward preventing gum disease and associated problems. 

Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Illness

Much research has shown that maintaining healthy gums reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke. Because periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic inflammatory condition, it can trigger the type of inflammation that causes hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis. 

Arthritis and Gum Disease

Inflammation is a byproduct of the immune system attacking the body itself. This response is linked to both periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Several studies show a strong association between RA and gum disease.

The European Congress of Rheumatology did a study on 636 patients who suffered varying levels of teeth lost to gum disease. The research found that participants with 10 or fewer teeth were 8 times more likely to have arthritis than those who retained all of their original teeth.

Respiratory Infections and Gum Disease

Your mouth and lungs are both a part of the respiratory system, so it is possible for mouth bacteria to travel to the lungs.

Most types of bacteria in your mouth are benign and do nothing more than help digest food. However, pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria can enter the mouth and find a prime environment to thrive before spreading from mouth to lungs. The good news is that keeping your mouth clean with regular brushing and flossing reduces the impact of these bacteria.

Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy Complications

Up to 70 percent of women develop gingivitis during pregnancy. Hormone levels change during this time, causing an inflammatory response that in turn can increase periodontal disease risk.

Studies have also shown a strong link between periodontal disease and preterm labor. In a normal pregnancy, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory proteins exist in balance. However, the scales tip when a pregnant woman has gum disease. Elevated levels of inflammatory proteins increase the risk of early labor and other complications.

Dementia and Periodontal Disease

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease examined long-term research involving 6,000 people. It found that subjects who joined the study with signs of periodontal disease were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. 

In April 2021, researchers at the New York University College of Dentistry and Weill Cornell Medicine found a link between gum disease and beta-amyloid, a protein that disrupts communication between brain cells as Alzheimer’s disease develops. 

Cancer Risk and Gum Disease

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that people with severe periodontal disease have a higher cancer risk. Those with severe periodontitis had a 24 percent greater risk of various cancers, and those who had lost all their teeth to gum disease elevated their risk by 28 percent. 

Gum Disease Prevention 

Fortunately, gum disease is highly preventable. For more information on how a healthy mouth makes for a healthy body, or to schedule a gum health check, contact our periodontist office.

If the idea of biting into an ice cream cone or swilling a cold drink makes you cringe, you may be one of the millions of people who suffer from sensitive teeth. Causes include tooth decay, worn enamel or fillings, cracked teeth, and exposure of tooth roots due to aggressive brushing, receding gums or periodontal (gum) disease. 

These conditions trigger sensitivity in several ways. One is movement of fluid in the dentin, the soft inner tissue beneath tooth enamel. The motion can irritate the tooth nerve, creating a tingling sensation and sometimes sharp pain.

Another common cause of tooth sensitivity occurs when the tiny tubes (tubules) of fluid in the dentin become exposed. This makes them vulnerable to temperature extremes, acidity, or contact with air through mouth breathing. This condition often results from excessive tooth wear, receding gums, periodontal disease, or physical damage to the tooth. 

Temporary Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Teeth whitening and orthodontic treatment may cause temporary teeth sensitivity. In most cases, this will disappear within a week or two. In severe cases of sensitivity, however, the tooth nerve itself may be exposed, causing severe pain and irritation and requiring immediate treatment.

What Can You Do About Tooth Sensitivity?

If you are suffering from sensitivity in your teeth, tell your dentist or hygienist at your next visit. They may need to screen for more serious underlying causes that could need treatment. They will also be able to recommend the best method of managing your discomfort. 

Is Teeth Sensitivity Preventable?

Some forms of sensitivity are preventable, such as overly aggressive brushing. This can cause higher levels of enamel abrasion and gum recession, two problems that can lead to increased sensitivity. If you participate in sports, always wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from trauma: chipped and cracked teeth often become sensitive.

After serious underlying issues have been ruled out, you can help to manage mildly sensitive teeth with special toothpastes that are designed for this purpose. If these do not provide sufficient relief, ask us whether a prescription product may be needed. 

In very severe and persistent cases of tooth sensitivity, root canal therapy, crowns, filling replacements, or gum grafts may provide permanent relief.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, we have options. Regular checkups are an important part of identifying the causes of teeth sensitivity — such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and other issues — as early as possible. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment.