The Need for Orthodontic Straightening

Tooth straightening procedures are performed for a number of reasons. Many people are born with teeth that are not perfectly straight, or teeth can become crooked with age leading to bite problems. Crooked teeth can also become a long term problem if left untreated; they can place strain on the jaws and jaw muscles leading to other problems such as headaches. In some cases crooked teeth look simply unsightly, and if the front teeth are crooked they can be easily damaged.

How Can Orthodontic Procedures Help?

Orthodontic procedures will be able to straighten crooked teeth and move them into the best position in the mouth. Having straight teeth also makes cleaning easier, which in turn can help eliminate decay to the teeth and gums. A dentist may be able to carry out the necessary orthodontic treatments after a full evaluation, or they may refer the patient to an orthodontist. Having a full examination is vital to assess which dental procedure will be the most suitable for the patient.

Surgery Involved In Teeth Straightening

In many cases surgery will not be needed with the straightening process. However, if there is not enough space in the mouth for the permanent teeth to align then some surgery may be involved. This could include removing some permanent teeth, and with more serious bite problems may mean jaw surgery. A short stay in hospital may be necessary for this type of dental surgery. A dentist will look at all alternatives but surgery may be the only option for people with very serious bite (malocclusion) conditions.

Teeth Straightening Devices

There are a number of non surgical dental devices used to commonly straighten teeth. Many people, at some point in their life, will have known people that have worn braces for a period of time. However, braces are no longer the obtrusive or unsightly devices that they once were. The dental braces market has come a long way in recent years, and braces are now designed to be as unobtrusive as possible and provide a faster straightening period. A dentist or orthodontist will be able to give information on the types of braces available. If the procedure is a cosmetic treatment for adults then there will usually be various prices depending on the different types of braces.

Common Braces

Braces do vary from the more traditional fixed braces to new, more modern systems that has no visible wires. Most adults will choose braces which are not visible and are removable for cleaning of the teeth. In most adult cases the brace will need to be adjusted at regular intervals as the teeth straighten.

Other Teeth Straightening Options

Porcelain veneers are a very popular method of giving the appearance of straight teeth without the need for braces. Veneers may be suitable for people that do not have any major orthodontic problems but would like to improve the color, shape and alignment of their teeth. The advantage of porcelain veneers is that the procedure can usually be accomplished in just a few visits. There will be some removal of the natural tooth structure to allow the veneer to sit on top of the tooth. Dentists will be able to advise if porcelain veneers are a suitable option.

For many people, having crooked teeth can result in severe bite problems and even speech impediments. For others, having crooked teeth is embarrassing and can lead to a loss in confidence. Teeth straightening procedures are a simple way to correct crooked teeth and improve an individual’s appearance. A dentist or orthodontist will be able to recommend the best way forward and the options available for anyone who is considering teeth straightening treatments.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be an embarrassing problem. It can be caused by the foods you eat, dry mouth, tobacco products, or a medical disorder. Maintaining proper oral health can help reduce or eliminate bad breath.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7bmlNFy8ug

Bad Breath Causes

Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by a variety of things including diet, medication, poor oral hygiene, and diseases or conditions such as diabetes, GERD, lactose intolerance, gum disease, and more. Treatment for bad breath depends on the cause.

There are many things that can cause bad breath, including the following:

Diet

•  When a person does not brush or floss their teeth thoroughly, food particles may remain in the mouth. These particles may rot and cause foul odors. In addition, food particles over time can promote the growth of bacteria, which can also cause foul odors. The bacteria can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
• Foods with strong odors also affect the air a person exhales. Foods commonly known to contribute to bad breath include onions and garlic, exotic spices (such as curry), some cheeses, fish, and acidic beverages such as coffee. Foods are absorbed into the bloodstream and then transferred to the lungs, causing noticeable odors when exhaled. These foods may also cause gastrointestinal upset and belching, which can contribute to bad breath. In addition, certain supplements such as fish oil capsules can contribute to bad breath.
• Low carbohydrate diets may also cause what is known as ‘ketone breath.’ So-called ‘low carb’ diets cause the body to burn fat as its energy source. The end-product of making this energy are ketones, which cause a fruity acetone-like odor on the breath when exhaled.

Dry Mouth

Bad breath can also be caused by decreased flow of saliva, which is a vital part of the digestive process and removes odor-causing particles in the mouth. Also called xerostomia, dry mouth may be caused by medications, breathing through the mouth, or salivary gland problems.

Bad breath can be reduced or prevented if you:

1. Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your teeth after you eat (keep a toothbrush at work or school to brush after lunch). Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. Use floss or an interdental cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth once a day. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before being placed in your mouth the next morning.
2. See your dentist regularly -- at least twice a year. He or she will conduct an oral examination and professional teeth cleaning and will be able detect and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth, or other problems that may be the cause of bad mouth odor.
3. Stop smoking/chewing tobacco-based products. Ask your dentist for tips on kicking the habit.
4. Drink lots of water. This will keep your mouth moist. Chewing gum (preferably sugarless) or sucking on candy (preferably sugarless) also stimulates the production of saliva, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
5. Keep a log of the foods you eat. If you think the foods that you eat may be causing your bad breath, record what you eat. Bring the log to your dentist to review. Similarly, make a list of the medications you take. Some medications may play a role in creating mouth odors.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Nitrous oxide, N₂O₂, also called laughing gas, is a blend of two colorless gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide, that is often used by dentists for its calming effects on patients who are overly nervous or worried about a dental procedure, or who exhibit a strong gag reflex that interferes with dental work.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKx-hiyQ01g

After reviewing the patient’s health history, the dentist will determine if the use of nitrous oxide is appropriate. It is safe, effective and helps one feel more relaxed during a dental appointment, and is even thought to be the safest sedative in dentistry. It is well tolerated by nearly everyone, is non-allergenic, has a rapid onset, is easily reversible, and the dosage can easily be adjusted by your dental provider or even by the patient.

A typical visit with nitrous oxide:

To use nitrous oxide, a small fitted mask is placed over the nose, and as the patient simply breathes in normally, it is absorbed through the lungs. It takes just a few minutes to notice the effects. Most people first notice a faint, yet sweet aroma, followed by a sense of well being and relaxation. Different descriptions of nitrous oxide’s effects include feelings of unconcern, happiness, or a slight numbness of the arms or feet.

Laughing gas raises the pain threshold and often makes time appear to pass quickly. Some patients have even report dreaming, though they remain conscious, retaining their natural reflexes and the ability to communicate. Since nitrous oxide does not numb the teeth, it is also often used in combination with other sedative agents when necessary.

Controlling the effects:

During the procedure, the dosage of nitrous oxide can be adjusted by the dentist to fit the patient’s needs. One can also control the dosage by deepening one’s breathing. Breathing more deeply through your nose can increase the effects of the nitrous oxide.

Once the treatment or procedure is completed, the N₂O₂ is eliminated after a short period of breathing oxygen with no lingering effects. As long as other sedatives are not used that may have a lingering effect, the use of nitrous oxide alone does not impair your ability to drive home safely.

Preparing for a visit in which nitrous oxide will be used:

It’s always a good idea to eat little or no food two hours before a dental visit in which nitrous oxide will be administered. Occasionally, nausea or vomiting has occurred when the patient has a full stomach. Also, make sure your dentist knows of any respiratory condition that make breathing through the nose difficult, as well as any medication taken the day of the appointment, as this might limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide.

Not all patients are alike. This means that safe as it is, N₂O₂ may not be right for everyone, especially if a person has extreme anxiety, nasal congestion, or discomfort when wearing a nasal mask. The dentist will review your medical history, dental treatment needs, as well as ascertain your anxiety level and discuss with you whether or not nitrous oxide is the right option for you. Nitrous oxide is a great tool in the dentist’s office and has allowed even patients with strong anxieties to look forward to future visits with equanimity, if not eagerness.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Sean and Stephanie Jaffe, Davie, FL

A. Lynn,  from Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Some people believe that their problems will be over if they have their teeth removed and get dentures. But instead, as most denture wearers will tell you, this marks the beginning of many new and different problems.

It’s tough to chew with a denture. It could take five times longer to chew your food. And when you add up all the costs, removing your teeth, making the dentures, periodic relines and re-creation (as often as every 3 years), dentures end up being very expensive.

Further down the road, as chewing becomes more difficult, you may be forced to consider implants and, as you may already know, they’re one of the most expensive tooth-replacement options.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdNrCrnhTcQ

When you wear a denture, over time the bone in your jaw will recede. This is what causes a denture to get loose and floppy. When this happens, your denture will have to be remade to regain a proper fit.

It’s not uncommon for this to occur every few years, particularly in your lower jaw. That’s because the base for the denture is smaller and the bone is much less stable. When you have your teeth removed, eventually the ridge of the bone in your lower jaw becomes very flat, and there’s practically nothing to hold the denture in place. Even worse, there are nerves passing through these holes that can end up on the surface of the bone, so when you bite down, it hurts! Some long-term denture-wearers suffer greatly from this. Their jaw hurts and goes numb every time they try to chew. Unfortunately, these difficulties occur in a person’s later years, when healthy eating is critical to continued good health and quality of life. When the bone under dentures recedes, two things happen: your nose gets closer to your chin, and your lips collapse. This causes you to look older, with more wrinkles and less support in your mouth.

Problems with eating

An upper denture also covers most of the taste buds on the roof of your mouth. This makes it much harder to taste and enjoy your food. Additionally, the tissues and bone in the mouth were never made to have plastic continually rubbing against them, so sore spots will develop in your mouth. And if you have an active gag reflex, an upper denture might even be impossible to wear

Problems associated with shrinking jawbone

The most serious problem is the loss of jawbone. When teeth are missing, the jawbone does not get the stimulation it needs from chewing, and the bone begins to shrink.

This causes the denture to become loose and floppy. After a few months, the denture will have to be relined, and every few years, it will need to be remade completely to keep it fitting properly.

This is a particular problem with lower dentures. The base for the denture is smaller to begin with, and as the loss of bone flattens the jaw, there is very little to hold it in place. Even worse, the shrinkage can expose nerves that pass through the lower jaw, so the jaw hurts and can go numb every time you bite down.

The loss of jawbone also changes your appearance. Your nose gets closer to your chin and your lips collapse. This causes wrinkles, gives you less lip support, and makes you look older.

The expense of dentures

Costs are also problems that will add up sooner than you think as you continually have to return to the dentist for realignment and periodic replacements. When you add this to the cost of making them to begin with, you can see that dentures are not the truly cheapest route to take.

For all these reasons we recommend that you choose treatment to save your natural teeth. You will look better, fell better, enjoy your food more and have more confidence.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

It is well-known that tooth decay is initiated by bacteria digesting sugar and producing an acid. We can modify the tooth by making it stronger with fluoride varnish, and treat small areas of decay or abrasion with mineralization paste. Or, we can modify the sugar with diet and substitute sugar with xylitol products, such as Spry Dental Defense System® gum and mints purchased at Whole Foods Market®, or Dr. John’s Candies®. But how can we modify the bacteria? Antibiotics are effective once there is a gum abscess and much of the supporting structure of the tooth is destroyed, but that just puts out the fire. Today “fire insurance” is available for the mouth! Full Story

Link To Breast Cancer And Oral Health

It has been well publicized that there is a growing link between oral health and medical health. Gum inflammation is a marker for generalized inflammation in the entire body. When your gums are chronically inflamed, you are more susceptible to problems with diabetes, heart attacks, pregnancy complications, and recently even Alzheimer’s disease! Blood work confirms that certain inflammation markers, such as HbA1c, and C-reactive protein actually can decrease when your gum infection is under control, which in turn, improves your medical prognosis for diabetes and heart disease. Recently, a link between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer was discovered due to higher levels of oral bacteria producing higher levels of nitrosamines. But what about breast cancer? Full Story

The Difference Between Fellows And Masters

The Fellowship and Mastership designations are two of the most rigorous continuing dental education programs today. A general dentist who is a “Fellow” in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) has been recognized by other general dentists as a leader and example to other dentists of the importance of quality continuing dental education to patient care. A general dentist who has earned the designation “Master” of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) has completed a structured and demanding set of requirements involving all the dental disciplines. Full Story

Porcelain crowns have a wide variety of uses, including, but not limited to – teeth lightening, gap narrowing, fix teeth that stick out, reduce crowding in the mouth. Their versatility means that they are used as a fix for a lot of potential problems that patients may be having.

Apart from fixing tooth problems, they can also be used to improve the outward appearance of the teeth. For those that are insecure about the appearance of their teeth or their smile, porcelain crowns can be a one-fix-for-all-problems solution.

To fit the crowns, a thin layer is shaved off teeth that are to receive treatment, and this prepares them for the crowns. On the patient’s first visit of the treatment a mould is taken of their teeth in order to get the perfect shape for the next session. The crowns are then bonded onto the teeth using a bonding material of some sort. Once the bonding has taken place, which will normally take one session at the dentist, the patient’s can eat as normal.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=17JbrgLqT3E

Crowns are very popular because they have an excellent history of fixing dental issues, and their track record is proven to work in all countries in the world. Up until quite recently, crowns were bonded to the tooth using a metal-based framework so that the crown could withstand the pressures involved with daily chewing of food in the mouth. Today, most of the time the metal framework is not required, since modern technology has advanced up to the point where pure porcelain is strong enough even for use on hard working molar teeth. The metal framework had an issue – after a few years the gum line of a patient would recede with age, revealing an ugly grey line at the top of the crowned tooth. Due to the color of the metal showing through, it was difficult to make crowned teeth look natural for more than a few years.

The advantage of using pure porcelain is that the crowns are near identical in color to the existing colors of the patient’s teeth, making it nigh on impossible for others to discern a crowned tooth from a real one. A dentist will match the color of the crown to the tooth color already in the mouth, and then they will place an order with a lab to create the tooth with the perfect color and shape, taken from the previously mentioned mold, and patients are very happy with the results, and their new smile.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Sports are one of the highlights of the day for kids and still a fun way to stay active for adults. But with many sports being perhaps a bit too active when it comes to the safety of your teeth, what can you do to protect your teeth during sports?

Prevention is Best

Prevention is always much easier than dealing with a tooth after it has been knocked out. To do so, most people recommend mouth guards, which can be worn by children or adults. Generally, anyone playing a contact sport such as hockey or football should wear a mouth guard. Even people who play non-contact sports or recreational activities such as skateboarding can benefit from wearing a mouth guard.

Mouth guards benefit the user not only by reducing the risk of a knocked out tooth but also by protecting the mouth as well. A mouth guard can reduce the likelihood of injury to the lips, tongue and tissues in your mouth. They also reduce the risk of suffering from nerve damage.

Choosing the Right Mouth Protector

There are a number of mouth guards available for your use. You can buy a basic one that is available in most sports shops. They are relatively cheap to purchase and are preformed and ready for your use. The downside is that they can be bulky and awkward. This is due to their single size for everyone, which can make them more uncomfortable to wear.

Another mouth guard is a boil and bite protector, which is also available at sports shops. They tend to have a slightly improved fit over the standard, one size fits all mouth guards. These mouth guards are put in hot water, which then softens them. After, you put the guard in your mouth and gently press it to teeth. This action shapes the mouth guard for a better fit.

Custom mouth protectors are more expensive but these are considered the gold standard in mouth protection. They are custom designed and fitted at a dentist’s office. An impression of your teeth is made and then the mouth guard is designed to replicate your teeth precisely. Despite the price, this kind of mouth guard gives you a superior fit and comfort.

When Accidents Happen

Each year, many people lose their teeth due to accidents in sports. If you aren’t wearing a mouth guard and have a tooth knocked out, there are still ways to save your tooth. More often than not, a knocked out tooth can be re-implanted in the mouth if the conditions are right. Re-implantation of the tooth within only minutes after an accident occurs increases the chances it will be kept for life.

If an accident occurs where a tooth is knocked out, it should rapidly be located and should be picked up only by the enamel rather than the root. If the tooth is dirty, it can carefully be rinsed with water or milk but should never be stored in water.

For children who have a baby tooth knocked out, it shouldn’t be re-implanted as this can harm the permanent tooth bud that is still being formed. This means you should not try to put the tooth back in and instead, should just seek advice from a dentist or a physician if there are other injuries.

Overall, there is some debate over the critical time for re-implanting the tooth. The best results are seen if the tooth is put back into the mouth within five minutes of the accident. If a person waits until reaching the dentist’s office, the critical time period is long gone and the chances of success are very low for retaining that tooth.

Enjoy Your Sports

Sports are great fun for many people – children and adults alike. Try some of the tips above for protecting your teeth during sports. If injury should occur, make sure you follow the instructions for preserving your tooth and getting emergency dental attention. With the right strategies in place, you can enjoy your sports and protect your teeth in the process.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

What is a laser and how does it work?

A laser is an instrument that produces a very narrow, intense beam of light energy. When laser light comes in contact with tissue, it causes a reaction. The light produced by the laser can remove, vaporize, or shape tissue.

Are lasers used in dentistry?

Yes, lasers have been used in dentistry since 1990. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has determined that lasers can be used as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of dental procedures. Lasers are often used in conjunction with other dental instruments.

How are lasers used in dentistry?

Dental lasers can be used to:

• correct speech problems caused by a tongue-tie, which prevents normal tongue movement.
• uncover partially erupted wisdom teeth.
• remove decay from a cavity and prepare the tooth for a new filling.
• remove muscle pulls, as seen in orthodontic patients.
• manage gum tissue during impressions for crowns.
• remove swollen tissues caused by medications.
• perform biopsy procedures.
• remove inflamed gum tissues and reduce the amount of bacteria within a periodontal pocket.
• remove or reshape excess gum and bone tissues during crown lengthening procedures.
• treat abscessed gums and infections in root canals.
• reduce the discomfort of canker and cold sores.
• activate whitening chemicals that are used to lighten teeth.

What are the benefits of using dental lasers?

There are several advantages. Dentists may not need to use a drill or administer anesthesia, allowing the patient to enjoy a more relaxed dental experience. Laser procedures can be more precise. Also, lasers can reduce symptoms and healing times associated with traditional therapies; reduce the amount of bacteria in both diseased gum tissue and in tooth cavities; and control bleeding during surgery.

Are dental lasers safe?

If the dental laser is used according to accepted practices by a trained practitioner, then it is at least as safe as other dental instruments. However, just as you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from prolonged exposure to the sun, when your dentist performs a laser procedure, you will be asked to wear special eyeglasses to protect your eyes from the laser.

How can I be sure my dentist is properly trained to use a laser?

Ask your dentist questions about the extent of his or her laser education and training. Make sure that your dentist has participated in educational courses and received training by the manufacturer. Many dental schools, dental associations, and the Academy of Laser Dentistry (ALD) offer dental laser education. The ALD is the profession’s independent source for current dental laser education and credentialing.

How will I know if treatment with a dental laser is an option for me?

Ask your dentist. Although the laser is a very useful dental instrument, it is not appropriate for every dental procedure.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Published with permission by the Academy of General Dentistry. © Copyright 2010 by the Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved

Periodontal Maintenance

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from periodontal disease then it is likely that you will be undergoing some form of periodontal maintenance. Periodontal maintenance is an ongoing process of cleanings and treatments used to keep the disease in check. Unless these treatments are performed regularly then the disease can spread causing more serious risks and complications to occur.

Regular Periodontal Maintenance

People who suffer from periodontal disease will be required to visit the dentist more frequently than the recommended bi-annual visits. If the disease has been caught in the early stages then it may be easily treated by your dentist. However, if the infection has been left unchecked and allowed to progress into a serious condition, you may be referred to a periodontist who will asses the condition and recommend the best treatment. There are millions of people who are unaware that they have some form of periodontal disease, but the following symptoms may be a precursor to the disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

• Bleeding gums during flossing or brushing
• Gums that have receded or fallen away from the teeth
• Continual bad breath even after brushing and flossing
• Swollen, tender or red gums
• A change in the way teeth bite together
• Pus seen between the gums

These symptoms will vary from individual to individual but if any of these symptoms do occur then an appointment with the dentist should be scheduled as soon as possible. If left untreated then periodontitis can occur, bringing with it additional risks to overall health.

Types of Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal disease is both preventable and treatable; the best treatment for your particular condition will be advised by either your dentist or periodontist. The frequency of the visits needed to address the condition will also be advised to you on your examination.

Periodontal Maintenance, Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a common way to treat periodontal disease without the need for surgery. The bacteria and infection will be removed from the tooth below the gum line by scaling the tooth to remove tartar and also the plaque that has built up in this area. The next step will be to smooth down the area that has been scaled so that the plaque and tartar cannot once again become easily trapped in that particular area; this is known as planing the area.

The process of scaling and rooting is often know as deep cleaning, and by leaving the root of the tooth healthy and clean, the gums will be able to reattach themselves to the tooth. The loose pockets around the teeth are reduced and it is harder for plaque and tartar to attack the teeth.

Bone and Tissue Regeneration

Bone and tissue regeneration is a periodontal procedure that can be used if the disease has caused very serious damage. The bacteria and plaque will be removed from the teeth, and membranes, proteins and bone grafts will be placed on the area to stimulate tissue growth and allow the bones to regenerate.

Periodontal Maintenance and Medication

There are medications available to aid the maintenance of periodontal diseases. Medications can now be placed directly on the infected area to help eliminate the infection. There are also oral medicines that are specifically designed to combat periodontal disease. These oral medications help to enhance the body’s immune system in order to combat the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Your periodontist or dentist will be able to advice if these medications are suitable for your condition.

Periodontal Maintenance and at Home Dental Care

Periodontal maintenance must be combined with a daily routine of at home dental care in order to prevent infection from reoccurring. Daily brushing and flossing, along with good dental nutrition are the best ways to keep your gums and teeth free from infection. If you skip brushing for only one day then plaque can build up and a dental cleaning will be required to remove it.

Periodontal maintenance is a continual process that needs to be taken as seriously as any other form of medical treatment. Your teeth are an important part of your body and need regular care and attention in order to keep them healthy and infection free.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Gum…Disease?

Removing plaque through daily brushing and flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk.

Everyone knows to brush their teeth twice a day, but many people forget about their gums! The word disease sounds scary— and it can be if you don’t take care of your gums. Here is some information about what gum disease is, what causes it, and how you can prevent it.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

 Periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed. Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease. In this stage, the gums redden, swell, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort.

What causes gum disease?

As mentioned, plaque is recognized as the primary cause of gum disease. If plaque isn’t removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus (also known as tartar). Toxins produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets become deeper, and the bacteria move down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed. Eventually, severe infection may develop with pain and swelling. The tooth may loosen and later require removal. There are other factors, too. Smokers and tobacco users are at a higher risk of developing gum disease. Changing hormone levels in pubescent teenagers and women who are pregnant also can increase the risk of gum disease. Stress, clenching or grinding your teeth, an unhealthy diet, and diabetes can increase your chances of developing gum disease as well. And, in some cases, it’s in your genes—nearly 30 percent of the human population is genetically predisposed to gum disease.

How is it treated?

In the early stages of gum disease, most treatment involves a special cleaning called scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and tartar around the tooth and smoothes the root surfaces. Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling and root planing. In most cases of early gum disease, scaling and root planing and proper daily cleaning will definitely help. More advanced cases may require surgical treatment, which involves cutting the gums—sometimes with the assistance of a laser—to remove the hardened plaque build-up and then recontouring the damaged bone. The procedure also is designed to smooth root surfaces and reposition the gum tissue so it will be easier to keep clean. This procedure may be performed by your general dentist or by a specialist, like a periodontist.

How can I maintain treatment at home?

Sticking to a maintenance program is crucial for patients who want to sustain the results of periodontal therapy. You should visit the dentist every three to four months (or more frequently, depending on the patient) for spot scaling and root planing and an overall exam. Between visits, brush at least twice a day and floss daily.

How can I prevent gum disease?

Removing plaque through daily brushing and flossing and professional cleaning is the best way to minimize your risk. You also should try to reduce the activities mentioned above (smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, grinding your teeth, and so forth). Talk to your dentist and he or she can design a personalized program for home oral care to meet your needs.

For further information about this topic, or any other dental topic, contact Dr Slootsky at info@drslootsky.com, or call 954-972-1000

Published with permission by the Academy of General Dentistry. © Copyright 2010 by the Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved