Long Island Gum Disease Doesn’t Have to Keep You from Smiling
Across the globe a smile is well known for lifting sad moods and easing tension. It brings happiness to a crowd and shines light on an individual’s personality and emotion. The lack of a smile however means just the opposite; perhaps sadness or dissatisfaction of some sort. On Long Island gum disease could likely be another factor in hiding that smile.
A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology was conducted at the University of Michigan to evaluate smiling patterns in periodontal patients. The researchers observed 21 patients with varying degrees of gum disease while watching a segment of a comedy program and measured three dimensions of each participant’s smiles. First the study measured the horizontal width in millimeters. Next they noted the open width in millimeters. Finally researchers noted the number of teeth shown when smiling.
In addition researchers documented the number of times each patient covered their mouth when smiling or laughing. At the end of the segment each participant received a detailed periodontal exam to determine the severity of the disease. All this data was compiled together to determine if the presence of gum disease did in fact change how a person smiled.
The results found that patients with advanced stages of periodontal disease, noted by deep periodontal pockets and loose or missing teeth, were more likely to avoid smiling, smile with their mouth closed or cover their mouths more often than those with milder forms of gum disease.
The best way to ensure you keep on smiling is to take necessary steps to maintain healthy gums. For starters be sure to brush and floss daily. It is equally important that you keep regular dental check-ups and have a cleaning every six months at your dentist’s office. At the first signs of gum disease it’s vital to contact your dentist right away for a detailed periodontal evaluation.
Your smile says a lot about you, who you are, what you enjoy and how confident you are in any given situation. Don’t let gum disease dictate your smiles. Leave that to your emotions!
On Long Island gum disease can be treated with a laser by visiting Dr. Scharf. If you are looking for an alternative to gum surgery call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com
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