With each passing week that you notice your gums appear to be “pulling” away from your teeth leaving much of the tooth root exposed. You schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out why. Right away your dentist recognizes a need to see the Periodontist Long Island to treat your receding gums to ensure the long-term health of your teeth. Although treatment is simple enough smokers have a lower risk of success.

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology evaluated 10 smokers and 10 non-smokers over the course of two years after receiving cosmetic treatment of re-covering the tooth roots after recession. The study’s objective was to monitor the effects of smoking on the long-term outcome of their treatment. The results showed that residual gum recession around the area, which received the surgery, was higher with

Any smoker that has received extensive dental work have heard the “no smoking for at least 24 hours” recommendation, and many smokers mocked their dentists and lit up immediately following their procedure. However when it comes to cosmetic surgery practitioners warn that the consequence can get pricey and should not be taken lightly be even the luckiest of smokers.

So why is treating receded gums so important? That’s simple, when the gums have pulled away from the tooth more of the root is exposed leaving the tooth vulnerable to disease and decay. That tooth’s survival depends on correcting the cause of the current recession in the first place.

Whether it is caused by bacteria, new facial piercings or some other cause your Periodontist will treat the area of recession to remove bacteria and plaque build-up to put a stop to further recession. Then you could choose to undergo another procedure to replace the full coverage of the gum over the tooth root.

This is where smoking comes into play. Restoring the coverage of the gum can be very costly, an expense that may not be worth your efforts if you’re willing to throw it all away for smoking. The study showed that 50% of smokers lost between .5mm to 1mm over the course of 2 to 24 months. For this reason it is crucial to develop a stop smoking program prior to undergoing corrective surgery.

If you’ve noticed that your gums have begun to recede and you’d like a skilled opinion from a Periodontist Long Island contact Dr. Scharf at (631) 661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com. He offers alternative treatments for your periodontal needs including laser therapy.

Protecting our mouths against tooth decay and gum disease is nothing new in the world of oral health. The importance of regular brushing, types of toothbrushes to use, how to floss, the type of floss to use, frequency and so on is continuously brought to our attention. In spite of all this direction Periodontist on Long Island still find themselves treating patients with gum disease on a regular basis. According to a recent study of 51 twins this could be due to the continued view that flossing isn’t necessary.

The study was conducted at the New York University and observed 51 sets of twins ranging from age 12 to 21. Each twin was randomly assigned a two-week oral care regimen where one twin brushed with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste while the other brushed with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste as well as flossed.

At the end of the study samples were taken from each participant to determine how much bacteria was present in the mouth. The results showed that those who did not floss had higher levels of bacteria when compared to those who did, indicating that floss plays a critical role in your oral health.

The significance of bacteria growth in the mouth lies with an understanding of the true causes of gum disease. Gum disease begins with an excessive amount of plaque forming on the teeth near the gum line. This plaque harbors bacteria as it grows. The gums then react to the bacteria with signs of inflammation, bleeding, redness, and eventually loose teeth.

Brushing alone only removes part of the plaque, leaving what hides between, and often behind the teeth. When used properly floss removes the traces of plaque left behind by the toothbrush. This study emphasizes two things, first that flossing removes the excess plaque better than a toothbrush alone and second the speed at which the plaque begins to build

When it comes to the health of your mouth there’s no replacement. Take extra steps to ensure long-lasting health. If you notice signs of gum disease contact a local Periodontist right away. Dr. Scharf treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, for people who need a Periodontist on Long Island and want an alternative to gum surgery call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

Gum disease is an infection that progresses silently inside your mouth from day to day. Though there are many early warning signs the best approach to this infection is prevention. Your dental practitioner has no doubt filled you in on proper brushing and flossing, but the Periodontist Long Island has a little something extra you can do to keep your gums healthy.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology your diet plays an important role in the prevention of gum disease. The study found that men and women with a calcium intake of fewer than 500 milligrams, or about half the recommended dietary allowance, were almost twice as likely to have periodontal diseases as measured by the loss of attachment of the gums from the teeth, especially for young adults in their 20s and 30s.

In addition to this study previous research has found vitamin C is another dietary need that plays a significant role in your oral care. Those studies showed that patients who consumed less than 60 milligrams of vitamin C each day were one and a half times more likely to develop severe gingivitis.

When you understand the role these two nutrients work in the body it’s no wonder they support healthy gums. Vitamin C boosts the body’s immune system in fighting off infection and calcium helps to build strong bones and repair soft tissue. When taken in accordance with the daily recommended dose and proper oral care you can dramatically reduce the risk of gum disease.

In addition to consuming healthy amounts of calcium and vitamin C diabetics are encouraged to limit sugar intake and drink plenty of water to help keep the mouth moist. To further protect yourself from gum disease monitor your mouth daily for early warning signs, this may include: bleeding gums, red or swollen gums, loose or missing teeth, persistent bad breath and sore gums.

If you notice signs of gum disease it’s important to seek treatment right away. If you’re looking for a Periodontist Long Island that offers an alternative to tradition surgery 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.

Gene therapy is an amazing technique used to correct defective genes responsible for disease development. This approach works when researchers insert a normal gene into the defective gene, creating a healthy, genetically-engineered cell. This amazing medical procedure has made leaps and bounds in the treatment of debilitating defects. As medicine continues to grow researchers may have found a way to use gene therapy to better assist Periodontist in Long Island in the treatment of gum disease.

The Journal of Periodontology recently published a study conducted by the University of Michigan that discussed a recent breakthrough in the possibility of using gene therapy to restore damage caused by periodontal disease. During the study researchers inserted a bone morphogenetic protein gene that encodes a bone-stimulating factor into an inactivated virus in rats where the gene was then transferred into grown skin cells. Then these genetically-engineered cells were transplanted into larger periodontal bone defects surrounding the teeth resulting in regenerated tooth-supporting structures.

Still needing more time before this study can be sure gene therapy will successfully repair damage caused by periodontal disease it does provide hope to Periodontists worldwide. Talks about using gene therapy in their treatment efforts is nothing new to Periodontists and this evidence brings forth the next step in making these talks a reality.

Even though researchers continue to move forward in advanced treatments for periodontal disease the best sure proof way is prevention. To help prevent gum disease you can follow these simple steps:

• Brush and floss daily
• Visit your dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year
• Use plaque revealing tablets to ensure complete plaque removal
• Avoid excessive tobacco and alcohol use
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Consume the daily recommended amounts of Vitamin C and calcium

If you notice unusual changes in your mouth and need a Periodontist in Long Island give Dr. Scharf a call. 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.

Improving our health naturally is a growing interest in the United States with more and more homeopathic remedies proving to be beneficial. These natural treatments are used to reduce pain, lower blood sugar, control mood swings and so much more. Now, one of the most trusted remedies has been identified as a vital tool in preventing a trip to a Periodontist Long Island.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology vitamin C intake plays a strong role in periodontal health. The study analyzed 12,419 adults and found that those consuming less than half the daily recommended amount were one and a half times more likely to develop severe gingivitis when compared to patients who consumed the daily recommended value.

Connecting Vitamin C Intake and Gum Disease

Vitamin C has been around in the homeopathic remedies for decades and is popularly known for its ability to boost the immune system. Additionally, vitamin C is a powerful scavenger of free radicals that can cause harm to the body’s soft tissue, like your gums.

Gum disease is a severe inflammation of the soft tissue in your mouth caused by bacteria infecting the gums. This inflammation leads to damage to the soft tissue as periodontal disease progresses to more advanced stages.

By taking the recommended daily amount of vitamin C you improve your body’s ability to neutralize destructive oxidants that can lead to gum disease naturally. In other words, a deficiency in vitamin C can mean a deficiency in your body’s ability to fight gum disease before it starts.

To further protect yourself from gum disease naturally researchers shared two factors that play a pivotal role in the overall health of your gums including:

1. Smokers have an even greater risk of developing gum disease since cigarette smoke contains numerous oxidants, increasing the need for vitamin C. The oxidants in cigarette smoke actually lower vitamin C levels in your body placing smokers at a higher risk of vitamin C deficiency.
2. Proper diet is crucial in overall gum health. More and more research supports a link between gum disease and vitamin C as well as calcium levels. Taking your diet seriously further reduces the risks of gum disease.

Although the risks of gum disease can be reduced by ensuring adequate vitamin C intake it is important to realize that periodontal disease itself is caused by bacteria growing in the mouth. Once signs of the disease are noted it is necessary to seek treatment with a skilled practitioner as soon as possible.

If you’re interested in finding a Periodontist Long Island who offers an alternative to traditional scalpel treatments for 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.

Gum disease has been identified as a “silent epidemic” by many Periodontists due to its natural ability to develop in the mouth without warning. Often times an individual won’t even recognize they have gum disease until it has already progressed to the advanced stages, which include receded gums and bone loss. Although this disease hides in the background your Periodontist on Long Island can help you arm your body’s defenses through proper nutrition.

On a recent poll conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology nearly 65% of Periodontists believe nutrition plays a major role in periodontal health with 3 out of 4 of the 135 Periodontists polled recommending the consumption of more vitamin C to their patients. Other supplements making the top of the chart for periodontal health included multivitamins, calcium and vitamin E.

It should come as no surprise that these are the supplements recommended as your natural defense against gum disease. After all in its most common form gum disease is gingivitis, which is an infection in the gums. If left untreated this infection leads to periodontitis, which is an inflammation of the gums and is characterized by deep pockets forming around your teeth causing bone loss.

When all things are considered gum disease is best fought by improving the body’s immune response and bone development, hence a proper diet will supply your body with enough nutrients to help counter the affects of gum disease. In this case vitamin C is an excellent choice to help boost the immune system and including calcium will help build strong bones, assisting your body’s response to bone loss often associated with periodontal disease.

Although proper nutrition is recommended by so many Periodontists and will dramatically reduce the risk of gum disease, don’t allow it to keep you from following through on other important defenses against gum disease. Optimal prevention involves;

• A healthy diet,
• Daily brushing and flossing,
• Regular dental check-ups
• Avoidance of harmful substances such as tobacco and alcohol.

If signs of gum disease develop contact a Periodontist on Long Island as soon as possible. If you’re interested in alternative treatment options 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.

Since 1917 melatonin has been found to be involved in many biological functions like aiding in the body’s sleep regulation and fighting off free radicals that may lead to cancer or other immune diseases. According to a literature review published in the June issue of the Journal of Periodontology melatonin may also be the next best thing in the preventing a trip to a Periodontist Long Island.

The authors of this study conducted an extensive review of PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, and other literature to evaluate melatonin’s potential effects on oral cavity. The review produced strong evidence that melatonin may play a key role in periodontal health by maintaining bone levels and enhancing the body’s immune response to periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is a severe inflammation of the gums due to bacteria growing in the gums. The bacterium progresses leading to advanced periodontal disease. Signs of gum disease include: red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing your teeth, persistent bad breath and loose or missing teeth.

Recognizing what periodontal disease is can help you understand how melatonin can play a positive role in your oral health. Boosting your immune system can in fact help aid in fighting gum disease. Melatonin on its own cannot fully prevent gum disease. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups, eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding tobacco and alcohol products will keep you on the right track for better oral health.

Take your oral health very seriously. It’s your mouth, it’s your smile. If you need a Periodontist Long Island contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, for people interested in an alternative to gum surgery. Call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com

Weight loss and cardiovascular health sore at the top of American’s health goals. Frequent exercise routines and healthy eating is a good place to start. Most American’s know that dairy can help them manage their weight and eat right in one simple step. What is a little less known is the benefits of dairy on periodontal health, something any Periodontist on Long Island would love to change.

A study published in the Journal of Periodontology looked at dairy foods such as, yogurt, milk and cheese, to determine their impact on periodontal health. They found that a routine intake of dairy products may in fact promote healthy gums.

The study looked at 942 individuals between the ages of 40 and 79. It examined periodontal health in two ways: first it looked at periodontal pocket depth and secondly measured clinical attachmentloss. Both of these conditions indicate the possibility of gum disease. Researchers found that individuals with a consumption of 55g or more of dairy each day had a significantly lower prevalence of either periodontal pocket depth or clinical attachment loss.

In light of this study Americans should take note that including daily dairy consumption not only helps improve their overall health but it will promote healthy gums as well. But why is gum disease important? First, many studies have proven that gum disease has a negative impact on overall health. Second, gum disease will inevitably lead to tooth loss, making eating well more difficult.

So protect your gums by eating well and including dairy in your diet. Be alert of any early signs of periodontal disease including red or swollen gums, bleeding while you brush, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, gums that pull away from your teeth and changes in the way your teeth (or dentures) fit in your mouth.

Keep your regular check-ups with your dentist and maintain a good daily routine at home of brushing and flossing. By taking your oral health seriously you’ll avoid a need for periodontal care. If you notice signs of gum disease it’s best to seek treatment right away. People looking for a Periodontist on Long Island 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.

Research has long indicated a direct connection between periodontal disease and other, more serious health issues. As more and more practitioners are coming to realize how accurate these indications are they are realizing that periodontal disease now means more than just tooth loss. With this knowledge patients showing signs of periodontal disease are strongly encouraged to see a Periodontist Long Island.

The bacteria the causes gum disease can travel through the blood stream to other parts of the body, leading to complications with health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, premature birth, and respiratory disease. To better understand the relationship let’s take a closer look at each illness independently.

Heart Disease

The relationship between periodontal disease and heart disease is twofold. First, research has demonstrated that bacteria from gum disease may foster clogged arteries and blood clots as it travels through the blood stream. Second, research has indicated that periodontal disease can exacerbate heart conditions. For the best care you can receive have your Periodontist and cardiologist work together for your health and dental care.

Diabetes

When it comes to diabetes research has shown that patients with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease than people without. Additionally, periodontal disease has, for some unknown reason, led to complications in controlling blood sugar for diabetics because severe periodontal disease increases blood sugar.

Premature Birth

Though many people believe that pregnant women should not undergo dental care it is more important that they maintain a healthy mouth throughout their pregnancy. Research has indicated that pregnant women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to go into premature labor or have a low birth weight baby.

Respiratory Disease

The link between respiratory disease and gum disease is perhaps one of the more practical connections people understand. When bacteria resides in the mouth and throat it can be drawn into the respiratory tract leading to a respiratory infection or further aggravate existing lung issues.

The health of your mouth is inevitably linked to the health of your body. Treat early signs of gum disease right away. Don’t let your overall health suffer.

People looking for a Periodontist Long Island 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.

A myth is defined as an unapproved or false collective belief. These beliefs often dictate how we manage our lives and interactions. For some they will follow their beliefs even to the detriment of their oral health. Don’t be the one who allows myths about oral care to send you remorsefully to a Periodontist on Long Island.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology there are several common misconceptions, or myths, that people truly believe. If these misconceptions could be corrected through education it is believed that more people will keep their natural teeth and healthy smiles. It begins by recognizing what those myths are, and then discovering the truth behind them.

One common misconception is that we only brush to remove the food from our teeth. Perhaps you’ve heard your kids say, “why do I have to brush I haven’t eaten anything.” Comments like these are where the false belief begins. It’s important that you teach your children early that brushing not only removes food but it removes plaque too, something they might not see on their teeth.

Another false belief frequently uttered about is that it’s normal if your teeth bleed while brushing and flossing. Contrary to this belief, bleeding gums is one of the many signs of gum disease and should be evaluated by a dentist.

Many people may not believe that oral health has any impact on their overall health, however research suggests different. When gums are infected it could contribute to heart disease, stroke, and preterm labor as well as pose a serious threat to those suffering from diabetes or respiratory disease.

The next misconception is that bad breath is a result of poor oral care. In fact, bad breath is a result of sulfur compounds produced by specific bacteria in the mouth. To help reduce bad breath you should brush your tongue during your normal oral care routine.

Next on the list is the belief that cavities are the leading cause of tooth loss. It has been proven that cavities alone are not the number one cause for tooth loss. Rather it’s a combination of cavities and periodontal disease.

If you’re pregnant perhaps you’ve been told to skip your dental check-ups for the health of the baby. Taking this advice could be a huge mistake. Periodontal disease can affect unborn baby’s health. Visit your dentist regularly and stay on top of your health care throughout your pregnancy.

Finally, that last common myth on the list is that stress does not impact your oral health. Researchers have found that high people with higher levels of stress are more likely to develop periodontal disease than those with reduced stress levels.

Don’t be fooled by these common misconceptions. Take your oral health care seriously. To have your gums evaluated by a Periodontist on Long Island contact Dr. Scharf. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, providing and alternative to surgery. Call Dr. Scharf today at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com