Taking care of your oral health goes beyond just preserving your teeth; it also plays a crucial role in preventing serious conditions like gum disease. But did you know that maintaining good oral hygiene could also help lower your risk of cancer? Let’s delve into the connection between gum disease and cancer and understand why prioritizing your oral health matters more than ever.

Gum Disease and Cancer: What the Research Says

Recent studies, including research conducted by Tufts University School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, have revealed a concerning link between advanced gum disease and an increased risk of cancer. This association underscores the importance of addressing gum disease not only for your oral health but also for your overall well-being.

Understanding Periodontal Disease and Its Impact

Periodontal disease, characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, is a prevalent oral health concern among adults. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, diabetes, weakened immune system, and hereditary predisposition can contribute to the development of periodontal disease. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and even systemic health issues.

Examining the Findings: The Role of Periodontitis in Cancer Risk

A comprehensive study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute analyzed data from thousands of participants and found a significant association between severe periodontitis and an elevated risk of cancer. Participants with severe periodontal disease showed a 24% increased risk of developing cancer compared to those with mild or no periodontitis. Moreover, individuals without teeth had a heightened risk of total cancer and specific types, such as colorectal cancer and lung disease.

Implications for Oral and Overall Health

The findings of these studies highlight the critical importance of maintaining optimal oral health to mitigate the risk of serious health conditions, including cancer. By prioritizing preventive dental care, including regular dental examinations, cleanings, and treatments for gum disease, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their well-being.

Promoting Good Oral Hygiene Practices

To reduce the risk of gum disease and its potential implications for cancer and overall health, periodontists recommend adopting a consistent oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, drinking fluoridated water, and avoiding tobacco products. These simple yet effective measures can help preserve your oral health and contribute to your overall wellness.

Schedule Your Appointment with Our Periodontist in Orlando

At Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics, we prioritize your oral and overall health. If you have concerns about gum disease or want to learn more about preventive dental care, don’t hesitate to contact our office and schedule an appointment with our experienced periodontist in Orlando. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Are you aware of the potential connection between pregnancy and gum disease? Understanding the impact of hormonal changes on your oral health during pregnancy is essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Let’s delve into the relationship between periodontal disease and pregnancy and explore how you can safeguard your oral health for yourself and your baby.

Hormonal Changes and Pregnancy

Gingivitis During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations can lead to a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. This condition is characterized by increased gum sensitivity, swelling, and redness, often occurring between the third and ninth months of pregnancy. Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone can make your gums more susceptible to bacterial inflammation along the gum line.

Morning Sickness and Dental Health

Morning sickness can expose your teeth to stomach acid, leading to demineralization and increased vulnerability to decay and erosion. To mitigate the effects of morning sickness on your dental health, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine and minimize exposure to acidic substances.

Impact of Untreated Gum Disease on Pregnancy: Untreated gingivitis can progress to more severe periodontal disease, posing risks to both maternal and fetal health. Research suggests a potential link between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight, preterm birth, and developmental issues. Managing gum disease during pregnancy is essential for reducing these risks and promoting a healthy pregnancy.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene During Pregnancy: To protect your teeth and gums during pregnancy, follow these essential oral hygiene practices:

• Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes every night.
• Rinse your mouth with water or fluoride mouthwash after meals and snacks, especially if brushing isn’t possible.
• Limit consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages.
• Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings, ideally every three months during pregnancy.

Understanding the Link Between Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy Complications Several factors contribute to the connection between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes:

• Elevated levels of prostaglandin, a labor-inducing compound, associated with advanced periodontal disease.
• Increased C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, linked to inflammatory responses and pregnancy complications.
• Spread of oral bacteria through the bloodstream, affecting maternal and fetal health.

Seeking Professional Periodontal Care During Pregnancy

Non-surgical periodontal treatments are available and safe for pregnant women, helping to manage gum disease and reduce the risk of pregnancy complications. Education on effective home care, dietary modifications, and supplemental vitamins can further support maternal and fetal health.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Periodontist in Orlando

At Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics, our periodontist is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for expectant mothers. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn more about protecting your oral health during pregnancy. We’re here to support you on your journey to a healthy smile and a healthy baby.

Our gums serve as the foundation of oral health, safeguarding our teeth and preserving their stability. However, when gum disease strikes, it can lead to significant issues, including tooth loss and unpleasant symptoms like bad breath. Several factors, ranging from genetics to oral hygiene habits, can contribute to gum recession, exacerbating oral health concerns.

Understanding Gum Grafting:

Gum grafting is a restorative procedure aimed at addressing gum recession by replacing lost tissue with new, healthy tissue. This procedure is crucial for preventing further gum recession and protecting exposed tooth roots. Typically, tissue for the graft is sourced from the palate and meticulously stitched into place, kickstarting the body’s natural healing process. Successful gum grafts not only enhance aesthetics but also alleviate tooth sensitivity and prevent future gum recession.

Types of Gum Graft Procedures:

Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics offers three main types of gum grafting procedures:

1. Connective Tissue Graft: Utilizes tissue from under the palate to cover exposed tooth roots.
2. Free Gingival Graft: Builds up thin gums with a smaller flap of tissue.
3. Pedicle Graft: Repositions misplaced gum tissue surgically.

When is Gum Grafting Recommended?

Gum grafting is recommended if the roots of your teeth are exposed due to gum recession. Exposed tooth roots create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to infections, decay, and advanced gum disease. Regular dental check-ups are vital for early detection of gum recession, even when changes are not visibly apparent. Prompt intervention by a periodontist can prevent permanent damage and tooth loss, preserving your oral health and smile.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health:

Maintaining regular dental visits is essential for preventing adverse oral health effects and addressing concerns like gum recession. Our experienced periodontist at Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics is here to provide expert care and guidance tailored to your needs. If you have any questions about gum grafting or wish to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. Let us help you revive your smile and enjoy optimal oral health once again.

As the sun graces us with its warmth, it not only brightens our days but may also contribute to healthier gums. How does sunlight impact oral health, you ask? Let’s delve into this intriguing connection.

Sunlight is a primary source of vitamin D, a vital nutrient essential for strong bones, teeth, and a robust immune system. Surprisingly, despite sunlight’s abundance, nearly one billion individuals worldwide lack sufficient levels of vitamin D. This deficiency can weaken the immune system, paving the way for various health issues, including gum disease.

Gum disease, characterized by inflamed or sore gum tissue, can lead to loose teeth, gum pain, and even tooth loss if left untreated. By enhancing your vitamin D levels through sun exposure, you may bolster your immune system and promote healthier gums. While sunlight isn’t a substitute for daily oral hygiene practices, it can complement your efforts to maintain gum health.

The beauty of sunlight lies in its accessibility—it’s freely available to all. So, why not harness its benefits for your oral and overall health? Embrace outdoor activities and bask in the sun’s rays, knowing that you’re nurturing your gums and well-being in the process.

At Lake Nona Dental Implants and Periodontics, we prioritize your oral health and offer comprehensive care to prevent gum disease and other dental issues. Schedule your next appointment with our periodontist Orlando and take proactive steps towards maintaining healthy gums. Let the sunshine brighten your smile and your health—contact us today.

In the midst of life’s hustle and bustle, it’s easy to overlook the importance of oral health. However, prioritizing your dental wellness can save you from frequent visits to the dentist’s chair. Here are three essential tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy, ensuring you can savor life to the fullest:

1. Practice moderation: While indulging in delicious foods is tempting, some can harm your teeth and gums. Beverages like lemonade, sweet tea, soda, and alcohol, which contain acids and sugars, pose risks to dental health. Similarly, foods like corn on the cob and meat bones can damage teeth and lead to painful obstructions. Always keep floss handy to remove trapped debris. While cutting back on sweets might not be exciting, it’s essential for preventing toothaches and maintaining oral health.
2. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools: Opening bottles with your teeth might seem convenient, but it’s a risky practice. Your teeth aren’t designed for such tasks and can easily become damaged or broken. Despite the urgency of the moment, refrain from using your teeth as tools. Remember, your dental health is precious—don’t jeopardize it for convenience’s sake.
3. Prioritize Safety: Reduce the risk of mouth injuries by wearing a mouthguard during sports activities. According to the American Dental Association, mouthguards prevent over 200,000 oral injuries annually. Whether you’re a professional athlete or enjoy recreational sports, invest in proper mouth protection to safeguard your teeth from harm.

Remember, maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is paramount for optimal dental health. Brush your teeth two to three times daily, floss regularly, and don’t forget to schedule your next visit with our periodontist, Orlando. By prioritizing preventive care, you can ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Schedule your appointment today to stay on track with your oral health journey.

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.

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.

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.