Alexandria VA Periodontist | Halitosis Help Line

Posted on by IdentityDental

No one wants to be the person with bad smelling breath, or halitosis as it is called professionally. However, some breath issues can be persistent. This is not your fault, and we understand just how difficult a situation this can be. Luckily, Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS is here to help you overcome this issue and regain confidence in the scent of your breath again for good.

Alexandria VA Periodontist

Let’s take a look at a few of the ways you can keep your breath as fresh as you want it to be.

The Importance of Brushing and Flossing

If you have bad breath, it is possible that it comes from leftover plaque, debris, and bacteria stuck in your teeth or gums. Plaque is a sticky substance that acts almost like a bacteria magnet. That bacteria and the natural processes they undertake as a part of their life results in bad breath for you. By brushing and flossing, you can remove the plaque and therefore remove the bacteria that cause those stinky odors. Brush thoroughly every day, but make sure you don’t overdo things. Brushing too hard can cause damage too.

 

Take Care of Your Gums

Many cases of persistent bad breath are caused by periodontal disease.

 

To avoid becoming a victim of both periodontal disease and the halitosis it causes do everything in your power to keep your gums healthy. When you suffer from unhealthy gums, bacteria can get trapped in your gum pockets. This trapped bacteria causes your gums to suffer from disease, leading to poor breath, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss if not treated properly. If you do suffer from gum disease, your dentist may suggest you see a periodontist. Our Alexandria periodontist specializes in treating gum disease and can help you overcome your persistent bad breath issues as a result

 

If you are unsure if you have gum disease, but want to get your persistent bad breath checked, you should contact our periodontal team today and schedule an appointment. If it is gum disease that’s causing your bad breath, Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS is here to provide any help you require.

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria , VA 22302

Alexandria VA Periodontist | Understanding the Gene-Factor in Gum Disease

Posted on by IdentityDental

Many chronic diseases have genetic factors, and gum disease is no exception. While research is ongoing, scientists have identified 38 genes associated with the increased risk of developing periodontitis. One in particular known as the FAM5C gene is not only linked to aggressive periodontal disease, but also cardiovascular disease and other conditions associated with chronic inflammation. The good news is, knowledge really is power when it comes to genetics; once you and our Alexandria periodontist identify your particular risk factors, there are healthy habits and lifestyle changes you can make to keep your teeth and gums healthy and disease-free.

Alexandria VA Periodontist

  1. Take extra care with brushing and flossing.

Everyone should prioritize these essential oral health habits, but those with elevated risk factors for gum disease need to be especially vigilant. If your gums already show signs of recession or infection, you may also want to ask our periodontal office about more frequent exams.

 

  1. Quit smoking.

The American Academy of Periodontology has identified smoking as one of the most significant risk factors for the development and progression of gum disease. If you make no other lifestyle changes, eliminating this one bad habit could dramatically improve your health and possibly lengthen your life.

 

  1. Eat a healthier diet.

Your immune system is tasked with fighting off infection in your body, including periodontal disease. A diet low in fat and high in lean meats, fish, fruits and vegetables is a simple change that can have a notably positive impact on your dental health.

 

  1. See a specialist.

Our Alexandria periodontist is a dental professional who specializes in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease. If you are genetically at risk for gum disease, schedule an appointment with our office to assess the current health of your teeth, gums and bone structure so you can create a customized plan of action to preserve your smile.

 

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is important to your overall health. For most of us, regular dental visits and good oral hygiene habits are enough. But, for those who are genetically predisposed to tooth decay and gum disease, taking extra precautions and partnering with a dental specialist can provide you with the information, tools and resources you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy now, and prevent existing conditions from progressing. Contact Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS to schedule an appointment today.

 

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria , VA 22302