Bacteria In Gums Should Be Taken Seriously

Posted on Feb 23, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

There is a commercial on television for a nail fungus treatment. To illustrate its presence, the fungus is portrayed by a nasty-looking cartoon character. The ‘creature’ is representative of living cells that decompose nutrients. Although it is a viewer-friendly way to think of nail fungus, fungi are actually ugly and destructive.

As a Periodontist, I wish there was a similar illustration for oral bacteria. In my specialty, I see just how devastating bacterial accumulation in gum tissues can be. However, the American population is still widely unaware of the destructive effect this can have on one’s overall health and well-being, not to mention their smile.

When an individual cuts himself, he will wash the cut and bandage it. This prevents bacteria from creating an infection that can become serious, even deadly. Yet, when a person’s gums are bleeding from a simple act as brushing teeth, this warning sign of gum disease is often ignored, even thought of as normal.

Think of bacteria as living creatures in your mouth – because they are! Bacteria are micro-organisms that feed on your tissues. They reproduce in your mouth and even create waste! Oral bacteria destroy gum tissues and attack supporting bone. Untreated gum disease will result in eventual tooth loss.

Yet, the damage of gum disease bacteria doesn’t stop with your smile. Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through tears in diseased tissue. Once bloodborne, the bacteria can trigger inflammatory reactions in the body. Research has linked gum disease bacteria to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and even impotency.

If you see blood in the sink while brushing, it’s anything but normal. Remember that this symptom represents an enormous colony of ugly little creatures who’ve claimed your mouth as their home. Then, vow to react. Ridding yourself of oral bacteria can be done comfortably and affordably with early treatment.

Call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a thorough examination. Your smile will thank you and you’ll be safe-guarding your overall health as well.

Keep Resolution To Be Fit For Body & Smile!

Posted on Feb 10, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Being fit helps oral health! For added reasons to keep to your new year’s resolution to ‘get fit,’ your smile is yet another.

It is widely known that being overweight puts a strain on the heart, joints, and one’s ability to enjoy good overall health. Sadly, over 63% of adults in the U.S. are either overweight or obese, with nearly 37% as overweight and 26% reaching the obese level.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine found indications that gum disease risk actually lowers when fat cells decrease. The study measured participants who were obese, with some of the participants undergoing bariatric surgery. All participants received periodontal treatment along with oral hygiene instructions to follow at home. While both groups showed improvement, the surgery group showed the most favorable results.

It seems an overabundance of fat cells secrete more cytokines, which make insulin more resistant to proper effectiveness in the body. Thus, more sugar in the blood occurs. A reduction in fat cells makes insulin less resistant and aids in the response to periodontal treatment.

Another benefit relates to how the leptin hormone helps to regulate metabolism. Along with cytokines, leptin has been linked to inflammation. Because leptin production was reduced after bariatric surgery, periodontal treatment was shown to be more effective.

Inflammation from gum disease can erode bone and cause tooth loss. It also makes harmful oral bacteria easier to enter the blood stream. This bacteria has been linked to preterm birth, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.

This shows how intricately your oral health is tied to your overall health, and vice versa. Maintaining healthy gums and keeping teeth in good condition prevents harmful bacteria from causing inflammation in the body. By the same token, having a healthy body seems to create a better foundation for the gums to battle harmful bacteria when it appears.

It’s always wise to adhere to good oral health habits along with other changes for overall health. Brush for 2 minutes twice a day, floss daily, avoid between-meal snacking, and keep your twice-a-year dental check-ups and cleanings. If you are behind on regular dental visits, schedule a thorough periodontal exam by calling (828) 274-9440. Once your gums are in a healthy state, they’ll be easy to maintain through preventive measures you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.

Perscription Drugs That Contribute To Tooth Loss

Posted on Jan 30, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

If you take antihistamines, aspirin, asthma medications and syrups, you may be taking one that makes you more vulnerable to tooth loss. It is estimated that about 40% of Americans take at least one type of medicine that can cause damage to their teeth.

These medications include prescription drugs and over-the-counter preparations and can contribute to gum tissue problems such as inflammation, bleeding or ulcers. Additionally, diseased gum tissue can lead to other dental problems, including tooth loss.

Some medications with damaging side effects to teeth include:
• Antihistamines – can cause dry mouth, and an increased risk of gum problems.
• Antihypertensives – can lead to an increased risk of gum problems.
• Aspirin – chewing aspirin can directly damage the tooth enamel, as aspirin is acidic. Always take aspirin strictly as directed.
• Asthma medications – some asthma drugs are highly acidic and can dissolve tooth enamel if used regularly over a long period of time.
• Chemotherapy drugs – can cause a dry mouth and lead to an increased risk of gum problems.
• Immunosuppressive drugs – can lead to an increased risk of gum problems.
• Oral contraceptives – can lead to an increased risk of gum problems.
• Syrups – medicated syrups that contain sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay if teeth are not brushed after these syrups are taken.

To check the level of tooth loss on a long list of prescription medications, use the link below. This shows drugs such as Stelara with only 1 case of tooth loss but Prednisone having 436 cases and Zometa a whopping 1,571.

http://www.ehealthme.com/symptom/tooth+loss

At each appointment, it is important that you keep us updated on medications you take. We want to help you avoid tooth loss. Knowing your medical and dental history and list of medications (including herbal supplements) can help us be more proactive on your behalf.

Does Dental Fear Lead To Gum Disease?

Posted on Jan 28, 2015 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I’ve always found it interesting that the percentage of American adults who have some level of dental fear (estimated at 75%) nearly parallels the percentage of adults ages 65+ who have some level of gum disease (70%).

It is the 65+  age group who endured dentistry in a different atmosphere than in most modern dental offices today. While today’s generation has a wide choice of dentists with reputations for gentle care who are attuned to the unique needs of fearful patients, many in the 65+ age group can recall less-than-pleasant experiences. Those born before 1949 also have the highest percentage of lost teeth and being totally edentulous (without any teeth).

Lack of regular dental care leads to the formation of cavities, gum disease, tooth loss and health risks from oral bacteria, which can trigger systemic inflammation. The inflammatory reactions have been linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, arthritis, preterm babies, and even impotency.

Dental fear is a major factor in the frequency of dental visits among a large percentage of aging adults. If fear has kept you from regular dental visits, regardless of your age, you will find today’s dental environments are highly sensitive to your comfort throughout each visit. Sedation options are available in most offices, however, finding a dentist you trust will have the best impact on your ability to release past fears and achieve the smile you desire.

If you are behind on regular dental exams and cleanings, call our office for a full periodontal exam. Chances are you have some level of gum disease. Once your mouth is restored to a healthy state, we can make recommendations to help you fulfill other needs for a confident smile! Call (828) 274-9440 for an appointment.