Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an oral condition that infects the gums, jawbones, and teeth. In severe cases, people lose their teeth entirely. 

But there are ways to spot periodontal disease, as your body will give you signs that something is wrong. When this happens, you need to visit a gum disease doctor (periodontist).

Here are some possible signs of gum disease. 

1. Bleeding Gums

Bleeding while brushing is not normal. There are a couple of reasons why bleeding during brushing may occur. 

The first reason that gums bleed is due to plaque build-up in between your teeth. Flossing takes care of the plaque. If you don’t floss, the bacteria in the plaque irritates the gums and causes bleeding. The more plaque there is, the worse the bleeding, and the more likely the plaque starts to destroy your teeth.

Certain medications can also cause gums to be inflamed, red, and bleed. It is important to speak with your periodontist about any medications you are taking. 

2. Sensitive Teeth

Have you ever eaten hot or cold foods and felt a stinging sensation? This is because you may have sensitive teeth. 

In many cases, tooth sensitivity is because the enamel on your tooth wears away leaving the dentin exposed. There are many nerves in your teeth that alert you when something is too cold or too hot. 

However, in the case of gum disease, sensitivity occurs because the gums pull away from the tooth, leaving the root of the tooth exposed. The root of your teeth can feel a greater hot/cold sensation. 

3. Receding or Swollen Gums

Gums that are receding appear to pull away from your teeth. Your periodontist or dentist uses a tool to measure how far your gums have receded.

Gums may also be swollen and red and create gum pockets. Gum pockets are gaps that occur between your gums and teeth. One of the main problems that happen with gum pockets is dangerous bacteria gets in your mouth and has an opportunity to enter your body, causing other health problems. 

4. Loose Teeth

Your gums and bone help keep your teeth in place and protect the roots of your teeth. Loose teeth or even shifting of the teeth are a sign of gum disease. You are at risk of losing your teeth if this problem is not addressed by a periodontist. 

5. Bad Breath

You may need a mint every once in a while, but consistent bad breath may be an indicator of a larger problem. Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, can be a warning sign of gum disease, especially when it’s combined with other signs. Bad breath happens due to plaque and bacteria being trapped in your gum pockets and exhibiting odors. If bad breath doesn’t resolve with regular brushing and flossing, you must consult a periodontist.

6.Having Diabetes

For people with type 2 diabetes, there is a greater risk for gum disease due to a couple of reasons. First, diabetic patients are more susceptible to inflammatory diseases. Second, periodontal disease causes a spike in blood sugar which is dangerous for people with diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, talk with your doctor and your dentist about ways in which you may be at risk for gum disease, and steps you can take to control it. 

7. Oral Abscesses

An intra-oral abscess is an abnormal growth on your gum that’s typically filled with puss. It’s a clear indicator of an infection. If you notice puss or growth in between your teeth, contact your periodontist or dentist immediately. 

The Stages of Periodontal Disease

You might be thinking, “How do I know if I have gum disease?” There are two basic stages of gum disease. 

The first is gingivitis which is caused by the bacteria in plaque that sits on your teeth and the baseline of your gums causing irritation and inflammation. While it’s possible to reverse gingivitis, it is important to see a periodontist or dentist to remove the plaque and to make sure that your teeth and jawbone have not been affected.

The second stage is periodontitis where there is permanent damage to the bone. By seeking periodontal treatment, you can get the disease under control. However, if there is advanced bone loss, you may need gum surgery to prevent losing your teeth.  

To avoid the likelihood of gum disease, it’s extremely vital that you follow an oral cleaning routine and visit your dentist for regular check-ups and plaque removal.

Do You Need a Gum Disease Doctor?

Caring for your teeth aids in keeping your whole body healthy. Gum disease is serious and may progress quickly. If you think you have any signs of gum disease, please see a periodontist right away. 

Do you need to see a gum disease doctor? Our periodontal team specializes in helping those with periodontal disease. Contact us today for more information!

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What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a general term for infections that are found in the gums, and can affect the surrounding teeth and bone structures as well. One example of gum disease, gingivitis, is the least serious and most common variant. If gingivitis is left unchecked it may develop into periodontal disease, which can become much more problematic and much more difficult to treat. So, what are the signs and symptoms of gum disease? In its early stages, gingivitis can be nearly undetectable if you don’t know what to look for. The most common gum disease symptoms are red swollen gums and bleeding gums when gingivitis is present. The discomfort caused by swollen gums is often difficult to detect for the patient, so the appearance of blood outside the gum line is one of the only gum disease symptoms patients will notice in its early stages. When left untreated, gingivitis can transform into periodontal disease, which will require much more drastic treatment methods and immediacy. What causes gum disease? Bacteria introduced by gingivitis can spread beneath the gum line, and produce toxins that irritate the gums. This causes your immune system to initiate an inflammatory response to correct the issue by turning on the cells in your mouth and destroying the gum tissues and bone material that support your teeth. For this reason, it is important to keep a look out for the signs and symptoms of gum disease. Not just for your oral health, but for your overall health as well.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when your insulin levels are not properly regulated by your body. When you ingest food, your body eventually turns it into sugars, also known as glucose. From there the pancreas releases insulin to initiate the opening of your cells which allows glucose to enter. Once glucose has entered the cells, it then becomes available for your body to use as energy. The two most common types of diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is the more severe type, because its treatment is dependent on supplemental insulin from an outside source. It is often dubbed “juvenile diabetes” because it tends to develop in children and teenagers. With Type 1 diabetes, the insulin-producing cells within the pancreas become foreign to the body’s immune system. This causes and autoimmune response to turn on and attack them. With no insulin being produced, your body’s cells starve from lack of glucose. If left untreated, the high level of blood sugar can damage the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and heart, and can even be fatal. Type 2 diabetes is not insulin dependent, however. It typically develops in those who are age 35 or older. People with type 2 diabetes are able to make their own insulin, however not a sufficient amount of it. The insulin attempts to open the cells (like normal functioning inulin), but eventually the cells resist. This causes what is called “insulin resistance”. There are a few lifestyle changes you can make to prevent diabetes, which include: lose body fat, eat a plant-based low calorie diet, drink lots of water, reduce your stress, sleep well, and keep all your medical checkup appointments.

How Are Gum Disease and Diabetes Related?

According to a 2012 article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, diabetes and gum disease share a reciprocal relationship. Many oral bacteria thrive on glucose, the sugar linked to diabetes. High glucose levels in the mouth (from diabetes) can result in an excess of glucose-thriving bacteria, thus making it more difficult to for your immune system to fight off gingivitis. Conversely, the complications that arise from gum disease may also lead to diabetes. As we mentioned earlier, a patient suffering from diabetes has poor pancreatic function in relation to insulin production. Recently, studies have found a link between poor gum health and increased risk for pancreatic cancer. When the pancreas is under attack from cancerous cells, it is much more susceptible to improper functioning. This can lead to poor insulin levels or insulin resistance, and ultimately diabetes.

Gum Disease Treatment for Diabetics in Forest Hills, NY

If you notice signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums, schedule an appointment with our office in Queens, NY immediately, as these may be early indicators of advanced gum disease. With our advanced, laser gum disease therapy treatments, we are able to non-invasively target and remove harmful bacteria, while stimulating healthy, beneficial growth of tissue and bone.

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1. Brush your Teeth

Perhaps the most simple, tried & true method for preventing gum disease is to practice proper brushing. The minimum amount of times you should be brushing daily is twice; though one of the most widely recognized schools of thought is that you should brush after each meal. Both methods will significantly reduce your chances of getting gum disease. Also, make sure you are using the proper technique when brushing, and replacing your toothbrush as needed. Proper technique has far less impact if your toothbrush bristles are worn out.

2. Flossing is Important

Regular flossing is often overlooked in the hierarchy of importance when practicing proper dental care; however, it is one of the most important. Your toothbrush can only do so much to remove plaque. Floss reaches deeper into the crevices of your teeth and gums than your toothbrush can. This will help to remove plaque that has been missed after brushing. This is why flossing is vital in the prevention of gum disease.

3. Rinse with Mouthwash

Once flossing is complete, take your oral care one step further by rinsing with a mouthwash. Mouthwash works on a microscopic scale, reaching areas of your teeth and gums that brushing and flossing cannot. This final step will help ensure that your mouth is free and clear of the harmful bacteria that cause gum disease.

4. Watch your Oral Fixations

Acidic & sugary foods and tobacco are things many people enjoy a little too much from time to time. Smoking tobacco is a primary contributor to gum disease because it decreases circulation in the gums. This prevents your immune system from keeping your gums healthy. Beware that smokeless tobacco can also lead to gum disease and/or periodontitis. Lastly, sugary and acidic foods like coffee, soda, and candy are some of the most prominent contributors to gum disease as well.

5. See a Periodontist in Forest Hills, NY

A periodontist is an expert in the field of gum disease treatment. You should schedule regular checkups with a periodontist every 6 months. If you feel you may have any of the symptoms associated with gum disease, you should see a periodontist right away. Schedule an appointment with our dental office in Forest Hills, NY here or call us at 718.878-4878 to schedule an appointment today!

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What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a general term for diseases that are found in the gums. Gingivitis is the mildest, whereas periodontal disease can become quite problematic for multiple reasons. So, what are the signs of gum disease? In its early stages, gingivitis can sometimes be nearly undetectable if you don’t know what to look for. The most common symptom is red swollen gums that bleed easily. Discomfort is difficult to detect, and there are not many signs of gum disease that are a good indicator in the early stages. If left untreated, gingivitis can transform into periodontal disease, which is much more serious and difficult to reverse. Bacteria introduced by gingivitis can spread beneath the gum line, and produce toxins that irritate the gums. This causes your immune system to initiate an inflammatory response to rectify the issue by turning on your body and destroying the gum tissues and bone material that support your teeth.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia often associated with (but not limited to) older patients. Onset develops slowly and usually get worse over time. As a result, assisted living arrangements will often need to be made for patients who suffer from it. So what causes Alzheimer’s disease? Contrary to some beliefs, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. It is important to differentiate between what could simply be a matter of aging, or something much more serious, such as dementia. Early Alzheimer’s disease symptoms include: memory loss that disrupts daily life, challenges planning or solving problems, difficulty completing familiar tasks, time or place confusion, trouble understanding visual images, new problems with spoken or written words, misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps, withdrawal from work and social activities, and changes in mood or personality. If you or a loved one are experiencing a number of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, talk to a physician as soon as possible.

The Connection between Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s

As we mentioned earlier, studies have shown evidence of a link between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s. Bacteria can actually enter your bloodstream through normal activities such as brushing or chewing. This is compounded by the fact that bacteria can more easily enter your bloodstream if gum disease is present, and gums are bleeding frequently. Once in your bloodstream, the bacteria can make its way into your brain. From there, your immune system triggers an inflammatory response, and valuable, healthy brain tissue can be destroyed in the process. The destruction of this healthy brain tissue can lead to the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms.

Laser Gum Disease Treatment in Forest Hills, NY

For more information about how to prevent gum disease or gum disease surgery in Queens, NY click here. Alternatively, call us on 718.878.4878. We’re standing by to help you with your dental needs.

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Your mouth can be home to a myriad of different bacteria; however, the average person’s mouth hosts only about 10% or less of these strains. Of those, a much smaller amount could be considered harmful bacteria, or bacteria which can eventually lead to gum disease.

If a harmful bacteria strain does make a home in your oral cavity, conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis can arise. While usually relatively easy to treat (with only severe cases needing surgery), there is another, lesser-known side effect of gum disease that can be life threatening.

When you hear the words “gum disease”, you don’t often relate it to a terminal illness, but, rather, more of an inconvenience than anything else. However, studies continue to show that there is more to gum disease than we initially thought: in addition to being linked to heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and other conditions, gum disease has been linked to a 14% higher risk of breast cancer in patients who suffer from it.

The research is part of the very large Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study, commonly called the WHI. The WHI is looking for links between health, diet, lifestyle, and genetic factors and health problems, such as cancer.

“In this study, the researchers monitored 73,737 postmenopausal women in the WHI who had never been diagnosed with breast cancer. About 26% of the women told the researchers they had gum disease.

After about 6.5 years, 2,124 women had been diagnosed with breast cancer.”

– BreastCancer.org

Source: http://cebp.aacrjournals.org/content/early/2015/12/12/1055-9965.EPI-15-0750

The link between gum disease and breast cancer

More and more today we are hearing about the importance of gut bacteria and how probiotics (good bacteria found in the gut) are beneficial to your overall health and wellness. The same can be said of bacteria found in your mouth.

There is a delicate balance, a “jungle” if you will, of bacteria that live in the damp, warm and dark cavern that is your mouth. It is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. When the balance is optimal there is often nothing to worry about. The good bacteria will maintain the balance by outnumbering and killing off invaders; however, when foreign, bad bacteria finds a permanent home in your mouth, early stages of gum disease and, ultimately, periodontal disease can occur.

An immune response releases proinflammatory cytokines to regulate the body’s overall immune reaction to the infection, but they can cause another, unintended side effect…

According to a study published in 2015 by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), inflammation is theorized to be a key player in tumor initiation, promotion, and angiogenesis (the development of new blood vessels allowing tumors to develop and thrive). The study showed that these cytokines play an important role in the introduction and protection of breast cancer tumors. With that taken into account, good oral hygiene has never been more important.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4291218/

How to lower your risk of gum disease

Brush your teeth adequately: Brushing for 2 minutes after meals is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease. This practice helps to ensure that food particles trapped in between your teeth are kept to a minimum, thus cutting off the food supply of harmful bacteria.

Floss: We’ve all been told we need to floss more right? It is very true. Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque in between your teeth that a toothbrush cannot.

Use mouthwash: Finally, mouthwash can get into the tight crevices that both your toothbrush and floss are unable to; removing plaque and food particles in the far reaches of your teeth and gums.

There are so many reasons to keep your teeth clean and healthy with good oral hygiene, and it is not just for the sake of your oral health, but your overall health. Regular trips to the dentist will help ensure that you are doing all you can to keep a good oral health profile.

If you notice continual red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums, schedule an appointment with our office in Forest Hills, NY immediately, as these may be early indicators of advanced gum disease. With our advanced, laser gum disease therapy treatments, we are able to non-invasively target and remove harmful bacteria, while stimulating healthy, beneficial growth of tissue and bone.

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Heart disease is the leading killer of men and women in the US, with about 735,000 heart attacks occurring each year. Studies link periodontal disease and heart disease and even show that dental problems can exacerbate existing heart conditions. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, “Scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association (with heart disease)”. Signals of a heart attack can vary between men and women. Women can begin to experience the symptoms as long as a month before the heart attack occurs, and at times they may not even feel chest pain although that tends to be the most common symptom.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Common symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, jaw pain, shortness of breath, nausea/ vomiting, sweating, pain in the upper middle abdomen, indigestion, arm (predominantly left arm) pain, and upper back pain. There’s a difference between heart attacks and cardiac arrest.  A heart attack is a damage to the heart muscle with reduced blood flow, whereas cardiac arrest occurs when the heart actually stops beating.

Gum Disease Symptoms

Gum disease symptoms usually include red, swollen, or tender gums, loose teeth, bleeding while brushing or flossing, receding gums, sores in the mouth, and persistent bad breath. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum or periodontal disease when gums become red and swollen. When left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, which is a serious gum infection of the soft tissue and bone supporting the tooth.

Periodontal Disease

Researchers “found that half of Americans over 30 had bleeding gums.” While many are unconcerned about bleeding gums, they actually signify a bacterial infection. If nothing is done to rectify this infection, it can spread to the point that teeth may be lost. Periodontal diseases are infections of the areas around the teeth and they come from bacteria in dental plaque. In order to prevent periodontal disease, you need to practice good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing regularly, and having professional dental cleanings twice a year.  However, if you already have gum disease, you may need to visit the dentist more often. There are several factors that could increase the likelihood that you will experience periodontal disease including genetics, stress, poor nutrition, smoking, certain medications, and pre-existing diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

Links between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Colgate’s Oral Care Center provides articles for consumers who wish to learn more about oral health. Their writers presented a theory that says “gum disease can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream where they attach to the fatty deposits in the heart blood vessels. This condition can cause blood clots and may lead to heart attacks.” Gum disease has been linked to a variety of health concerns, including heart disease. An article from Harvard Medical School shows that by treating gum or periodontal disease, patients were able to improve their overall health and reduce their medical bills.

It’s important to note that if you already have heart disease, you should notify your dentist and follow their instructions. It’s also essential to maintain good dental hygiene, brushing twice a day and flossing to keep a healthy mouth.

Gum Disease Treatment

The first stage of gum disease, when gums bleed and become swollen, is commonly referred to as gingivitis. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) has stated that this stage of gum disease can be treated with daily brushing and flossing in addition to regular professional dental cleanings. What about the latter stages when gingivitis has worsened and developed in periodontitis? The good news is that even the more advanced cases don’t always require a surgical solution. The early stages of periodontal disease can be treated through a nonsurgical procedure called scaling and root planing (SRP) which involves removing the plaque and tartar off of your teeth and root surfaces. Other options include periodontal pocket reduction and LANAP® (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure). Millennial Dental Technologies, creators of the LANAP® protocol, present it as a “less painful, more successful treatment alternative to conventional surgery.” The LANAP® is accomplished through the use of the PerioLase® MVP-7™ laser, a dental laser that utilizes digital technology and 7 pulse durations. LANAP® has been cleared by the FDA and it’s one of the most successful protocols for the treatment of gum disease by targeting the source of the inflammation without harming or removing any healthy gum tissue. Through LAR (Laser Assisted Regeneration), LANAP® promotes bone growth, decreases pocket depth and tooth loss, and prevents the need for surgery or sutures.

For more information about the connection between gum disease and heart disease in Forest Hills, NY or about how LANAP® can help click here. You can also call us on 718.878.4878.

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According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), diabetes affects over 9.3% of Americans. That’s 29 million people that have this disease caused by the body not producing enough or any insulin. Diabetes occurs when the body can not break down the sugar (glucose) which causes glucose levels to increase to a point where the body can not cope. If high glucose levels associated with diabetes are left untreated for too long, then serious damage can occur to multiple parts of the body. There are two types of diabetes that affect sugar or glucose differently: Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the pancreas does not produce any insulin, thereby causing glucose levels to increase very quickly. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin is working correctly. This causes glucose to build up in the body causing high blood sugar. But, what does all of this have to do with periodontal disease (gum disease)?

How Does Diabetes Affect Dental Health?

Diabetes affects all parts of the human body by reducing the resistance to infections such as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums usually caused by the existence of plaque. Sometimes invisible, plaque accumulates on teeth above and below the gum line. If untreated, gum disease (resulting from gingivitis) can cause inflammation, bleeding and damage to bone tissue surrounding the teeth. Common signs of gingivitis include: red and swollen gums and bleeding while brushing your teeth. Dental health for those with diabetes can be even more important because diabetes affects teeth and gums more for diabetes sufferers, than those who do not have diabetes. If you have signs of gingivitis and you suffer from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you should consider consulting a periodontist right away.

How Can LANAP® Help with Diabetes?

According to a survey conducted by Dentistry IQ, diabetes affects an estimated 29.1 million people living in America with 8.1 million people undiagnosed. Gum disease affects 85% of the adults in the US with most of these people undiagnosed also. The presence of gingivitis in a patient with uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c levels above 7.0%) is at greater risk to end up suffering from advanced gum disease: periodontitis. Patients can experience pain while drinking or eating and even high blood sugar levels. The LANAP® laser gum surgery protocol can help greatly reduce swelling and bleeding by accurately using a precision laser to clear up the harmful bacteria with little-to-no pain. Local anesthetic and nitrous oxide analgesia are usually used during the procedure.

LANAP® is a laser assisted new attachment procedure use to treat gum disease. The procedure is non-invasive, painless, and proven to fight gum disease. The laser targets the area where the bacteria has caused gum disease, removes the diseased tissue, and helps regenerate new, healthy tissue in place of the old, diseased tissue. LANAP® laser gum surgery is approved by the FDA and has a proven track record of success. Patients with diabetes, who have had this treatment, have reported positive results like the one mentioned below.

Following the LANAP® procedure, patients reported little to no pain, little to any swelling of gums, and lower HbA1c levels. A healthy mouth can help control your diabetes. See a case study involving a diabetic patient who suffered from gum disease here.

How Can I Keep My Mouth Healthy?

Sticking to a strict routine of brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day can keep your gums and teeth healthy. Maintaining triglycerides and cholesterol levels are also very important for diabetic patients because they can also affect dental health. Along with a healthy diet and insulin control, diabetics can have a better chance of avoiding gum disease.

If your blood sugar levels are out of control, consult with both your dentist and diabetic doctor about your options. Make sure to schedule dental appointments in the morning because sugar levels are usually lower at that time and be sure to take medication as prescribed regularly. See your dentist regularly and let him or her know of any changes in medicine, HbA1c levels and or any dental concerns. Good oral hygiene is important for your mouth and body.

Contact our office today in Forest Hills, NY if you have diabetes and are concerned about your dental health by clicking here. Or simply call our office at 718.878.4878.

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• Laser means no cutting and no suturing. This increases patient comfort both during and after the procedure.
• Laser means less time. While a normal procedure requires four one-hour sessions with many subsequent visits for suture removal and check-ups, LANAP/LAPIP only requires two two-hour visits and two follow-up meetings.
• Laser means long-lasting results. Following the procedure, more than 95% of patients remain stable after five years.
• Laser means quick recovery. Patients will not lose work time because it usually takes less than 24 hours to feel normal. Also, in most cases, they can eat anything right after the procedure (differing from the traditional procedure which requires 2-4 weeks of restricted diets due to pain and swelling).
• Laser means safety comes first for each individual. Even patients with serious health conditions (like diabetes, heart disease or hemophila) or prescription medication can consider LANAP/LAPIP.
• Laser means oral health is the priority. LANAP/LAPIP conserves gum tissue and bone and protects against bone loss, developing sensitive teeth, and receding gums.

How Can Laser Gum Disease Treatment Help Me?

Overall, these new laser procedures offer a great alternative for people suffering from periodontal disease. If you would like to see if LANAP/LAPIP is right for you, schedule a consultation with us so we can help you feel better and help you reclaim your smile.

Feel free to give us a call at (718) 878-4878 to speak with one of our specialists directly.

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1) Pain

Pain is the most obvious sign of treatable gum disease, and its the most attention grabbing. If your mouth hurts, thats something you can’t easily ignore. If you have inflamed or red gums, that is a likely sign of periodontitis (literally “inflamed gums”) and should be treated through surgery as soon as possible to prevent loss of the tooth.

Another area to pay attention to is your when you have pain. If you have headaches only in the morning, that is a likely sign that nighttime jaw activity is causing it. If you have pain only when you chew, then it is a more likely sign that you have surgical tooth decay than if the tooth hurts all the time.  For either case, though, see a periodontist.

2) Sensitivity

Sometimes it isn’t pain that is an identifier. Tooth decay almost always shows itself as sensitivity in its early stages: especially sensitivity to hot or cold. If you find yourself unable to eat that ice cream because your teeth and gums are too sensitive to eat them properly, speak to a dental hygienist.

3) Discoloration

Healthy teeth don’t necessarily need to be perfectly white: it has become a popular procedure for hygienists to whiten teeth. That is a good thing, and it is a great thing to have a brilliant smile. But tooth health is not determined by whiteness, it determined by is uniformity. If your teeth have blotches of whiter or darker on them, or if your gums have any splotchy discoloration, it is a sign of dental disrepair.

In fact any discoloration is a sign of periodontal disease, in any place in the mouth. Look at the roof of your mouth and under your tongue for spots of discolored flesh, and see your periodontist if there are any spots that give you concern.

4) Taste

Here is a test for periodontal disease you can perform without opening your mouth at all: taste the inside of your mouth. If you have a bad taste in your mouth that won’t seem to leave when you brush your teeth, or persistent bad breath, that is a sure fire sign that bacteria is prevalent within your mouth. If traditional hygienic methods don’t help your breath or if you have a lingering bad taste in your mouth, then periodontal help is required.

Contact our office in Forest Hills, NY at (718) 878-4878 for more about gum disease and how you can keep your teeth healthy.

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The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. If your oral care is lacking, plaque builds up and hardens under the gum line to produce tartar, harming your gums and making future cleanings even harder. Other factors such as tobacco, diabetes, dry mouth, hormonal changes, and poor nutrition can increase your risk. To recover from or prevent gingivitis, try the following steps:

1. Go see a professional. Set up an appointment with your dentist, have an evaluation and cleaning, and get all of your questions answered so you can be prepared to take care of your oral health at home.
2. Brush your teeth effectively using a soft toothbrush (replace every 3 months). Brush at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. If possible, brush after every meal and snack.
3. Floss daily. Though it may not be fun to have your gums bleed every time you try, flossing, is one of the best ways to get rid of plaque.
4. Use antiseptic mouthwash. Ask your dentist for recommendations and be sure to use it daily. Rinse with it for 30 seconds after you brush and floss. Don’t rinse with water or drink anything for another 30 minutes for a more lasting effect.
5. Establish a routine. Your daily dental cleaning (brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash) should take 3-5 minutes. Also make an effort to schedule regular check ups with your dentist (every 6 months to 1 year).

Prabha Krishnan, DDS, PC is a gum disease treatment specialist with an office in, Forest Hills, NY.

If you have any questions about gingivitis or other oral health issues, please call us at (718)-878-4878 or click here.

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