It has long been understood that patients with periodontal disease have a much higher risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, premature delivery or miscarriage, and respiratory issues. While it was recognized that proper oral healthcare helped minimize the risk of these health problems, little research had been conducted that showed a direct correlation between periodontal care and improved health for patients already suffering from these issues. However, a recent study presented to the American Heart Association (AHA) has, for the first time, shown that intensive periodontal care alone is enough to lower blood pressure levels.

Presented at the 2017 annual AHA meeting in Anaheim, CA, a new study has shown that periodontal care can be an effective way to reduce blood pressure, inhibit inflammation, and lower the risk of cardiovascular events. The study was conducted by a team of researchers led by Jun Tao, MD, PhD from the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China. A sample of 107 Chinese men with mild to severe periodontitis were given two levels of periodontal care over a six-month period. The researchers found that those who received more intensive care saw a noticeable reduction in blood pressure levels compared to those who received more basic care.

While many understand the importance of professional oral care for maintaining optimal oral health, few recognize the risks that poor oral health can pose to your overall well-being. There are a number of serious and potential life-threatening conditions that have been tied to untreated periodontal disease. Thanks to Dr. Tao and his team, we now have conclusive evidence that periodontal care can not only reduce the risk of heart issues, but can lower blood pressure and promote a healthier heart as well.

Whether you currently have periodontal disease or heart issues or are concerned about developing them in the future, it’s never too soon to seek periodontal diagnosis and care. The CDC estimates that nearly half of US adults have mild to severe gum disease, and therefore are putting themselves at risk of developing serious health problems. Don’t become a statistic; contact our Orlando dental team today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the life-saving benefits of periodontal care.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics

Phone: (407) 535-9802

Url: https://www.lakenonadentalimplants.com/

9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100 Orlando , FL 32827

Gum disease is an alarmingly common problem among US adults. With over 3 million new cases diagnosed each year, it’s one of the most prevalent oral health issues faced today. Detection and treatment is important, as untreated gum disease can lead to serious health issues including heart disease, stroke, lung disease, and more. The extent of damage caused by the disease is directly correlated to how long it remains untreated.

If your mouth is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it could be a warning sign of early stages of periodontal disease. Contact our Orlando periodontal office today to schedule a consultation with our doctor.

1. An Increase in Related Health Issues
   Periodontal disease is shown to be directly correlated to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, lung disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and more. If you are suffering from any of these conditions, it could be tied to untreated periodontal issues.
2. Frequent Bleeding
   If you experience regular, unexplained bleeding of the gums while brushing, flossing, or eating, it could be a sign of periodontal infection.
3. Gum Recession
   As the bacteria that causes periodontal disease infects your gums, it can cause them to recede. Eventually, the bacteria can reach your jawbone and lead to greater infection and loss of teeth.
4. Chronic Bad Breath
   If you experience chronic bad breath despite your best efforts to relieve it, it may be caused by untreated infection or gum disease.
5. Swollen or Sensitive Gums
   If your gums are frequently swollen, irritated, or sensitive without explanation, it could be a sign of a building infection under the surface.
6. You’ve Never Visited a Periodontist
   The CDC estimates that nearly half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from some degree of gum disease, yet few recognize the benefits of visiting a periodontist. An oral healthcare routine that includes twice daily brushing, regular flossing, twice yearly dental cleanings, and regular periodontal exams are your best line of defense against developing periodontal disease.

If any of these signs sound familiar, you could be at risk for developing periodontal disease, or may already be affected without knowing it. Contact our Orlando periodontal office today to schedule an examination with our doctor. If signs of periodontal disease are present, we’ll recommend a treatment plan focused on protecting your oral and overall health.

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics

Phone: (407) 535-9802

Url: https://www.lakenonadentalimplants.com/

9145 Narcoossee Road, Suite A-100 Orlando , FL 32827

While it’s often portrayed as a safe alternative to smoking, the risks associated with vaping are not yet clear. Recent studies have indicated that e-cigarette vapors could have a damaging effect on your mouth. Here’s what you need to know.

E-Juice Ingredients

Electronic cigarettes are not regulated like other tobacco products, meaning there is little oversight of their ingredients. E-juice can include any number of harmful substances, including nicotine, glycerin, chemical flavoring, propylene glycol, and more. While some of these ingredients have been proven safe in other uses, such as artificial flavoring in foods, the effects they can have when heated and inhaled have not been fully researched.

Vaping and Oral Health

A recent study from UCLA found that vapors from an e-cigarette can kill the cells in your oral cavity, the area of your mouth beyond your teeth and gums. After placing oral cells in an environment where electronic cigarette smoke was produced for 24 hours, researchers found that 85% of the exposed cells had died. These oral cavity cells function as an important part of your body’s natural defense system. As they die or become less effective, your mouth becomes more vulnerable to oral diseases.

Another study run by the University of Rochester Medical Center concluded that e-cigarettes can be just as bad for your gums as traditional tobacco products. Nicotine, which both types of cigarettes contain, is a known factor in contributing to gum disease.

Steps You Can Take

Since e-cigarettes have been shown to cause many of the same oral health problems as regular cigarettes, it’s best to avoid smoking either. Both have been shown to negatively impact the cells of your oral cavity that your body uses to defend itself against dangerous bacteria and other substances. Without your mouth’s natural defense system, you open yourself up to oral disease.

Make sure you are regularly visiting our Orlando Periodontist, especially if you are a smoker of either traditional or electronic cigarettes. Our experienced dental team will perform a complete oral examination during your visit to check for signs of oral disease. Being proactive is your best defense against oral disease.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit, please contact Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics.

Your gum health may have an impact on your cognitive function. One recent study found a correlation between gum disease and increased cognitive decline for people living with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. While more studies are needed to make a definitive connection, this study illustrates the importance of continuing the conversation about oral health and its impact on your entire body.

Details of the Study

The study was administered by King’s College London and the University of Southampton. It observed 59 patients with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Blood tests were utilized to examine inflammatory markers present in the bloodstream, while patients’ dental health was examined by dental hygienists.

What it Found

The study found that patients with gum disease experienced cognitive decline at a rate 6 times faster than those without gum disease. The study suggested that the body’s reaction to inflammation may be responsible for causing the rapid decrease in brain function.

Importance of Healthy Gums

Previous studies have determined that gum disease can increase your risk of developing complications such as heart disease and stroke. Maintaining healthy gums is essential to staying healthy overall. You can keep your gums healthy by following good daily oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing twice each day for two minutes, as well as flossing regularly.

For those living with Alzheimer’s disease, it is imperative to maintain good oral health. If you are a caregiver of someone with the disease, make sure they are following an effective daily oral hygiene routine, as well as visiting our office for regular examinations. Keeping your gums healthy may be one key to keeping your body and brain healthy throughout your lifetime.

For more information about gum health, or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us.

Resources:

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/news_article.php?newsID=2573

If the idea of biting into an ice cream sandwich makes you cringe, you may be one of the millions of people who suffer from sensitive teeth. This is often caused by movement of fluid in the dentin – the soft inner tissue beneath the enamel of your tooth. This motion irritates the tooth nerve, creating a tingling sensation and sometimes pain.

Another common cause of tooth sensitivity occurs when the tiny tubes of fluid in the dentin become exposed. This can happen due to tooth wear, receding gums, or damage to the tooth. When this occurs, pain is triggered by eating or drinking foods that are hot or cold, sweet or acidic, and even through contact or exposure to air.

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

What can you do about sensitivity?

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

Is sensitivity preventable?

Some forms of sensitivity are preventable. Avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes and do not brush aggressively. This can cause higher levels of wear that lead to sensitivity. If you participate in sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from trauma. Chipped and cracked teeth often become sensitive.

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

If you experience tooth sensitivity, contact our office to schedule an appointment. We can help.

Resource: http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=W&iid=329&aid=1319