Gum disease isn’t just about your gums anymore. According to a new study published in the Journal of Periodontology there may be a direct link between periodontal disease and prediabetes. With 54 million people in the United States showing signs of prediabetes the link between Long Island gum disease and prediabetes is more than just a little unsettling.

Prediabetes is a condition where your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Out of the 54 million people with prediabetes the American Diabetes Association estimates that a significant number of them will develop Type 2 diabetes within 10 years.

Controlling both Gum Disease and Prediabetes

The studies found that having periodontal disease can alter your metabolic conditions. This is believed to be what leads to prediabetes and the progression to Type 2 diabetes. This makes having regular periodontal exams a top priority whether or not you have prediabetes!

The best way to learn proper care of your gums is to work closely with a Periodontist. He can thoroughly evaluate the current health of your gums and assist you in developing the right plan of action tailored just for you.

Keeping your gums healthy at home is as simple as following a few practical guidelines:

• Brush at least twice a day
• Include daily flossing after your brush to clean between your teeth and along the gum line
• Keep your regular dental check-ups and cleanings
• Have a regular periodontal evaluation to monitor the health of your gums
• Observe your mouth for any unusual changes to your teeth or gums
• Schedule an appointment with a Periodontist or trained practitioner as soon as possible if you notice any signs of gum disease

Patients who are looking for a Periodontist to help monitor progression of Long Island gum disease should contact Dr. Scharf at (631) 661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com . He can treat gum disease with a laser rather than a scalpel.

Battling Long Island gum disease in and of itself is a daunting task that demands discipline in the home and at the Periodontist’s office. In an effort to regain a healthy mouth individuals fighting gum disease have to agree to a rigorous treatment plan and then follow through. If you’re also suffering from depression the burden of recovering a healthy mouth may be harder to obtain.

In fact the Journal of Periodontology published a study that observed patients over the course of a year and found that those with depression were twice as likely to have sub-optimal results when compared to those without depression. That’s a number worth paying attention to.

The study included 697 patients with 85 of them being diagnosed with some type of depression. Each patient had at least three diseased sites in the mouth with an equivalent depth. The patients were monitored from the initial evaluation until the follow-up one-year later. The results showed that 7.4 percent of mentally healthy patients showed improvement where only 4.7 percent of the depressed patients showed improvement.

But what does depression have to do with the health of your gums? Simply put one major reason depressed patients show a less than optimal result is due to their attitude towards treatment. If they are feeling overwhelmed or anxious about the work ahead it could dramatically impact their commitment and cooperation at home. Equally there is a high likelihood of continued smoking as well as the possibility of having an impaired immune system.

The health of your gums plays a huge a role in the life of your teeth and naturally beautiful smile. Gum disease attacks the soft tissue inside your mouth and beginning with plaque build-up. As the disease progresses pockets form around the tooth exposing root and leading to tooth decay or tooth

Treatment of gum disease, especially at advanced stages, is often extensive and requires a commitment from both the patient and the Periodontist. If you’re dealing with depression it’s important to discuss this with your Periodontist so necessary changes can be made to your treatment plan to ensure success.

If you’re faced with the overwhelming task of fighting Long Island gum disease don’t let the treatment add to your anxiety. Contact Dr. Scharf at (631) 661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com. He can treat gum disease with a laser rather than a scalpel providing you with a calm more relaxing treatment.

Gum disease is an inflammatory response to a bacterial infection in your mouth. It begins when plaque builds-up around your teeth forming deep pockets along the gum line. This bacterium then begins to repopulate in those pockets causing chronic inflammation. It would seem however that Long Island gum disease isn’t the only thing this bacteria leads to. According to two recent studies this bacteria may actually have a trickle affect right down to your heart.

Two studies published in the Journal of Periodontology provide support to this claim where in one study researchers evaluated 150 individuals with periodontal disease. They found that those who suffered from a heart attack had higher levels of bacteria growing in those deep pockets.

The second study looked at the DNA of the bacteria residing in the plaque and found the exact same DNA in the individuals’ heart arteries. The matching DNA from mouth to heart was consistent with different types of periodontal bacteria strengthening the claim that periodontal disease can lead to heart disease.

To better understand how bacteria in your mouth can in fact impact your heart let’s take a closer look at those deep pockets where the bacteria originates. Surrounding those pockets are tiny pores. On one side of those pores lies all the bacteria while on the other your blood flows freely.

To start with the pores are too tiny for anything to pass through them. But as the bacterial infection gets worse it leads to inflammation in the gums, causing the pores to become larger. They are now large enough for the microscopic bacteria to fit through and enter the blood stream, catching a ride to every organ in your body including the heart.

When it comes to the health of your mouth you’re not just taking chances with your teeth. Rather you’re taking chances with the health of your heart, among other organs. If you notice pockets forming around your teeth, visible as gums pulling away, contact a local Periodontist right away.

If you’re looking for an alternative treatment for Long Island gum disease contact Dr. Scharf at (631) 661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com . He can treat gum disease with a laser rather than a scalpel.

Travel is by far one of the coolest things Americans enjoy year after year. For some planning that summer vacation is drawn out process of coordinating and rotating hot spots and so much more. Whether you prefer that 10 day cruise or lounging on the beach at Long Island gum disease risk factors are tagging along for the ride.

Gum disease just might be one of the sneakiest diseases taunting Americans worldwide. That’s because it starts in the background without any symptoms to warn you. The disease begins with plaque build on the surface of your teeth that result in tiny pockets along the gum line.

These pockets then serve as the perfect habitat for bacteria that causes gum disease. Perhaps the most amazing part is the speed in which this all takes place. Within a two week time span the bacteria in your mouth can more than double if you neglect your oral care in the slightest way.

As you prepare for that fun filled vacation, be sure to follow these pointers to ensure the health of your gums when you return:

• Store your toothbrushes in travel containers that have holes for proper air circulation. This allows the brush to thoroughly dry and discourage the growth of bacteria
• Store toothbrushes separately to prevent the spread of bacteria
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect the travel containers before and after your trip
• Regularly disinfect your toothbrush while on vacation or at home by washing it in the dishwasher, storing in the fridge or place it in a cup of mouthwash
• When traveling abroad brush with bottled water and keep your toothbrush 2-5 feet from the sink and toilet to avoid water contamination
• Always pack extra oral care supplies in case you can’t purchase them
• If you don’t have toothpaste, brush with water to remove food and bacteria
• If you forget your toothbrush and are unable to purchase a new one floss and rinse with mouthwash
• Don’t share a toothbrush because oral bacteria can be passed from one family member to another

There’s no excuse for letting your oral health decline while on vacation. Stay on top of your oral routine and monitor your mouth closely. If you notice signs of gum disease or any unusual changes you are unsure about contact your dental practitioner right away.

If you dealing with Long Island gum disease Dr. Scharf treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, for people looking for an alternative to gum surgery. Call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

Bad breath is perhaps one of the most embarrassing things a person has to manage. It’s one of those things that inhibits conversations, interferes with your work and restricts intimacy. In fact, bad breath may be one of the quickest ways to scare off just about anyone. Contrary to popular belief it isn’t just what you eat or Long Island gum disease that can cause your bad breath.

According to the president of the American Academy of Periodontology bad breath is more likely caused by sulfur compounds released from our digestive process. Each one of us has bacteria that live under the surface of our tongue and throat. These bacterium help to break down proteins, blood and oral disease. When the bacteria comes into contact with various amino acids a sulfur compound is released from the back of the tongue resulting in bad breath.

For this reason, many of the home remedies suggested today really don’t help much in truly eliminating your bad breath. In fact many of them could actually do more harm than good. While there are hundreds of “recommendations” out there for controlling bad breath the American Academy of Periodontology put together the top 10 least effective remedies used today.

1. Excessive use of mouthwash
2. Breath mints
3. Chewing gum
4. Mint chew tobacco
5. Infomercial items
6. Vodka martinis or sour mash whiskey
7. Brushing with cleanser
8. Intestinal cleansing methods
9. Rinsing with kerosene
10. Tongue piercing

If you really want to eliminate bad breath seek advice from those who know mouths the best, your Periodontist. By having a simple periodontal exam you’ll be able to identify the exact cause of your mouth odor allowing you to effectively eliminate it for good.

To have a detailed evaluation for Long Island gum disease contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, giving patients an alternative to gum surgery. Call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are an integral part of many American’s therapeutic treatment plan for various illnesses. It is commonly used for athletes to improve their speed and stamina as well as weightlifters increased muscle mass. Additionally AAS medications are crucial to the treatment of many asthma and chronic lung disorders. As beneficial as this medication can be a recent study in published in the Journal of Periodontology disclosed and increased risk of Long Island gum disease with prolonged use.

Researchers examined 24 athletes between the ages of 17 and 29 who had been using AAS for more than one year. All subjects were examined for plaque levels, gingival inflammation and gingival enlargement. The results were then compared with a control group of 20 bodybuilders who had never used AAS drugs and matched for age, educational level and oral habits according to the data obtained from the AAS user group.

The study showed that prolonged use of AAS medications did in fact lead to gingival enlargement, also called inflammatory enlargement of the gums. This is a condition where your gums actually swell up and grow over your teeth making proper oral hygiene more difficult and creating a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.

The study did reveal that patients using anabolic androgenic steroids appropriately and under a doctor’s care were less likely to develop gingival overgrowth, indicating that AAS abuse was a leading cause in the changes to gingival tissue.

Patients requiring continued use of AAS medications need to talk with their doctor about the increased risks of gum disease. Additionally it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene as well as regular dental check-ups. At the first signs of gingival enlargement contact your local Periodontist.

For the treatment of Long Island gum disease you can contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, giving patients an alternative to gum surgery. Call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

As your due date draws near there are many things to consider in preparation for your new baby. Some of the things running through your mind may include where your baby will sleep, what type of diapers to buy and whether or not you plan to breastfeed. When considering if you will nurse your baby it’s vital to consider the risks of Long Island gum disease if your calcium intake is low.

A recent study was conducted at Tohoku University in Japan investigating if lactation affects bone loss in the bones surrounding the roots of teeth. They used nursing rats with experimental periodontitis and found that breastfeeding mothers could put the bone structures around their teeth at risk, especially when their calcium is below the daily requirement.

According to Dr. Kanako Shoji, Division of Periodontology and Endodontology at Tohoku University “the research the importance of having a high-calcium diet while breast-feeding.” He disclosed that “even though the study was done on rat population the evidence confirmed that breastfeeding can cause increased bone loss in the mother, especially when the mother has insufficient calcium intake.”

Dr. Preston D. Miller, President of the American Academy of Periodontology backs the results ofthis study saying, “We know a high-Calcium diet can promote healthy teeth and gum, but this research indicates that nursing mothers should be especially conscious of having enough Calcium in their diet.”

In addition to calcium intake good oral hygiene will help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Good oral hygiene alone won’t cure periodontal disease if it has already begun. Knowing what to look for when it comes to gum disease could be the difference between early treatment or tooth loss. Those signs include:

• bleeding gums while brushing,
• red or swollen gums,
• Persistent bad breath.
• Loose or missing teeth
• Gums that pull away from your gums

If you notice any of these signs visit a Periodontist for a full evaluation. Residents at risk for Long Island gum disease should contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, giving patients an alternative to gum surgery. Call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

When it comes to the health of our children we would go to the ends of the earth and back to keep them healthy. It doesn’t matter if that means sacrificing some of our favorite things in life, as long as they are well we are happy. With all this determination it comes as a surprise that 51 million hours of school is missed yearly as a result of dental problems. It would seem that Long Island gum disease hasn’t made the list of health care prevention.

With a number that high the American Academy of Periodontology decided to take action. Their goal is to educate both children and parents on the prevention of gum disease. To meet children’s dental needs even further 120 dentists have volunteered their time to deliver dental care to thousands of low income children. Their motivation comes from the Surgeon General’s Report stating that 37 percent of children have not been to a dental check-up prior to starting school.

Providing low cost or free dental care and providing a solid education on preventing gum disease will only touch the surface of what our children need to have a healthy smile. Parents play a pivotal role in helping their children reach oral care goals and keep their gums healthy.

Helping out is simple. Always set a good example for your son or daughter by brushing and flossing daily. When they see mom and dad taking good care of their teeth children are more likely to get into the same habit. Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they start to break through the gums. Starting early helps them see dental care as a natural part of their daily routine.

Be sure to provide your child with a well balanced diet and monitor his or her mouth regularly for any unusual changes such as, red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, bad breath or gums that have pulled away from their teeth.

Taking a few extra steps early on will help parents stop Long Island gum disease in its tracks. If you notice any signs of gum disease early intervention is important. Dr. Scharf treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, giving patients an alternative to gum surgery call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

Ever find yourself looking in the mirror after brushing your teeth wondering what you’re doing wrong? If your brushing and flossing twice a day and still find yourself staring at less than adequate gums it could be your technique. According to a recent poll conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology, improper brushing technique could be in the lead for causing Long Island gum disease.

Out of 201 Periodontists polled 61 percent reported that their patients flossing technique was wrong and could use improving while 90 percent shared their patients were lax in flossing all together. The biggest offenders were male patients with 97 percent of Periodontists stating their female patients practice better oral hygiene.

In addition to how and how often you brush and floss Periodontists have found that popcorn, improperly used mouth rinse and floss holders have led to gum damage. This damage increases the risks of complications in your oral health including the risk of periodontal disease.

Unsatisfactory home oral care can easily be corrected by visiting your Periodontist. They can show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth as well as assist you in selecting the right toothbrush for your gums. You can discuss what foods to limit and extra measures you may need to take to prevent unintentional damage to the gum line.

The health of your gums should never be taken lightly. It has been proven that gum disease is connected to other more serious health issues like heart disease, diabetes, preterm births and respiratory disease. If you take your oral health seriously it can also help improve your overall health.

Monitor your mouth closely each day for any signs of periodontal disease including; loose or missing teeth, changes in the space between your teeth, redness, swelling, pain or bleeding, persistent bad breath and gums that pull away from your teeth.

If you discover early signs of Long Island gum disease and are looking for an alternative treatment to traditional surgery contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease using laser therapy, giving you a comfortable session. Give him a call at (631) 661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com

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