Preventive oral health care, including professional cleanings
at the dental office, is important if you are to control the progression of periodontal disease and
other oral health problems.

Regular dental checkups and periodontal screenings
are important for evaluating overall dental health and
for treating dental problems in their initial stages.

I recommend more frequent evaluations and preventive procedures, such as teeth cleaning,
to maintain good oral health.

In addition to brushing twice a day and flossing or
using an interdental cleaner once a day, I suggest
using an antimicrobial mouthrinse or toothpaste
to control gingivitis.

Watch for signs and symptoms of oral disease and contact us immediately when a problem arises.

Practice good oral hygiene at home, follow your physician's instructions regarding diet and medications, and schedule regular dental checkups to
maintain a healthy smile.

Without good periodontal health, there cannot be good general health.

Periodontal disease (commonly known as gum disease) can affect the state of your whole body. Over the past few years, studies have shown a definitive link between your oral health and your general health.

Here are a few of the many health problems that can be aggravated by poor oral hygiene:

• Stroke
  • Those with adult periodontitis may have increased risk of stroke.
• Respiratory Infections
  • Inhaling bacteria from the mouth and throat can lead to pneumonia.
  • Dental plaque buildup creates a dangerous source of bacteria that can be inhaled into the lungs.
• Heart Disease
  • Those with adult periodontitis may have increased risk of fatal heart attack.
  • And are more likely to be diagnosed with cardiovascular disease.
  • Bacteria from the mouth may cause clotting problems in the cardiovascular system.
• Severe Osteopenia
  • Reduction in bone mass (osteopenia) is associated with gum disease and related tooth loss.
  • Severity has been connected to tooth loss in postmenopausal women.
• Uncontrolled Diabetes
  • Chronic periodontal disease can disrupt diabetic control.
  • Diabetes can contribute to bacterial overgrowth in the mouth.
  • Smokers with diabetes increase their risk of tooth loss by twenty times.
  • People with type II diabetes are three times as likely to develop periodontal disease than are nondiabetics.
• Preterm or Low Birthweight Babies
  • Women with advanced gum disease may be more likely to give birth to an underweight or preterm baby.
  • Oral microbes can cross the placental barrier, exposing the fetus to infection.

Remember, there are a number of advanced oral care remedies available to control or eliminate periodontal disease, such as anti-microbial mouthwashes, flossing regularly and certain medications... and you thought all you needed was a toothbrush!

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