Blog

Dentist in Alexandria | One Tool for Better Gum Health 

Posted on by IdentityDental

Periodontist in Alexandria Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bloody gums – these are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal, or gum, disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can also begin without any obvious symptoms. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you could be at risk for irreparable damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. In fact, one of the most effective tools for preventing the disease only takes a minute of your time each day. 

 

Floss to the Rescue 

Dental floss is an effective and easy to use tool that can be among your best defenses for preventing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Even if your daily oral hygiene routine already includes a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes, at least twice each day, you should be flossing daily as well. Dental floss is highly effective at cleaning areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth catch food debris and sugars and acids from drinks all day long. Flossing helps to clean out these tough to reach spaces. 

 

Facts Behind Flossing 

According to a survey referenced by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss each day. The same study showed a clear link between regular intra-oral care and better oral health. Unfortunately, many people also lie about how frequently they clean between their teeth. A study from the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults lie to their dentist about their flossing habits. 

 

Tips for Flossing Correctly 

It can be confusing to figure out the best way to use dental floss. Try cutting off about 18 inches of floss and wrapping most of it carefully around your middle finger. Use roughly one inch to clean between each pair of teeth. Using your thumb and index finger, carefully slide the floss between your teeth. Floss to your gumline, but be gentle. Avoid cutting your gums. Work your way through your 18 inches of floss by using a new, clean section between each pair of adjacent teeth. 

 

It only takes about a minute to floss your teeth each day, but these minutes contribute to a lifetime of optimal oral health. Floss is among the most effective tools at your disposal to keep your gums clean and healthy. Get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly – your gums will thank you. 

 

For more information about gum health, or to schedule a visit to our office, please contact our team. 

 

Periodontist Near Me | Gum Health and Alzheimer’s Disease 

Posted on by IdentityDental

Periodontist 22302

Your gum health may have an impact on your cognitive function. One recent study found a correlation between gum disease and increased cognitive decline for people living with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. While more studies are needed to make a definitive connection, this study illustrates the importance of continuing the conversation about oral health and its impact on your entire body.  

 

Details of the Study 

The study was administered by King’s College London and the University of Southampton. It observed 59 patients with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Blood tests were utilized to examine inflammatory markers present in the bloodstream, while patients’ dental health was examined by dental hygienists.  

 

What it Found 

The study found that patients with gum disease experienced cognitive decline at a rate 6 times faster than those without gum disease. The study suggested that the body’s reaction to inflammation may be responsible for causing the rapid decrease in brain function. 

 

Importance of Healthy Gums 

Previous studies have determined that gum disease can increase your risk of developing complications such as heart disease and stroke. Maintaining healthy gums is essential to staying healthy overall. You can keep your gums healthy by following good daily oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing twice each day for two minutes, as well as flossing regularly. 

 For those living with Alzheimer’s disease, it is imperative to maintain good oral health. If you are a caregiver of someone with the disease, make sure they are following an effective daily oral hygiene routine, as well as visiting our office for regular examinations. Keeping your gums healthy may be one key to keeping your body and brain healthy throughout your lifetime. 

 For more information about gum health, or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us. 

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

Periodontist 22302 | 12 Reasons to See Your Dentist 

Posted on by IdentityDental

Periodontist in 22302Don’t wait until you’re in pain to see your dentist! Most people make time to clean out the house, car, garage, or closets at least twice a year. Why not include your oral health on your “to do” list? 

 

Schedule an Appointment Now!  

 Regular professional cleaning and examinations are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. These routine visits are your first line of defense against tooth decay, periodontal disease, oral cancers, and more. Early identification and treatment of any oral illness improves outcomes and allows for less-invasive treatment options. Don’t wait until it hurts! 

 

Why Do We Avoid Going? 

The HDI institute, in a study done with the American Dental Association, lists some of the main reasons we sometimes delay going to the dentist. Cost, low perceived need, time, and anxiety are the most common causes. However, if we allow these concerns to interfere with oral care, we may allow more serious issues to develop. 

 

When Should We See the Dentist? 

 The ADA or American Dental Society recommends maintaining twice yearly visits for cleaning and examinations. In addition, they advise making an appointment for any of the following concerns:  

  1. Pain in your mouth, teeth, or face 
  2. Injury to your mouth, teeth, or face 
  3. Conditions that can affect oral health, such as diabetes 
  4. Pregnancy 
  5. Jaw pain or stiffness 
  6. Bleeding, swelling, or redness in your gums  
  7. Recent dental treatment, such as fillings, crowns, implants, or root canal 
  8. Pain or difficulty eating or drinking  
  9. Chronic dry mouth 
  10. Smoking or tobacco use 
  11. Sores in your mouth that are not healing 
  12. You have questions or concerns about your oral health or hygiene 

 Our team is here to help you achieve and maintain your best oral health. To schedule your next appointment, please contact our office.  

 

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

Alexandria VA Periodontist | Dentistry is the Answer 

Posted on by IdentityDental

It has long been understood that patients with periodontal disease have a much higher risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, premature delivery or miscarriage, and respiratory issues. While it was recognized that proper oral healthcare helped minimize the risk of these health problems, little research had been conducted that showed a direct correlation between periodontal care and improved health for patients already suffering from these issues. However, a recent study presented to the American Heart Association (AHA) has, for the first time, shown that intensive periodontal care alone is enough to lower blood pressure levels. 

Presented at the 2017 annual AHA meeting in Anaheim, CA, a new study has shown that periodontal care can be an effective way to reduce blood pressure, inhibit inflammation, and lower the risk of cardiovascular events. The study was conducted by a team of researchers led by Jun Tao, MD, PhD from the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China. A sample of 107 Chinese men with mild to severe periodontitis were given two levels of periodontal care over a six-month period. The researchers found that those who received more intensive care saw a noticeable reduction in blood pressure levels compared to those who received more basic care. 

 

While many understand the importance of professional oral care for maintaining optimal oral health, few recognize the risks that poor oral health can pose to your overall well-being. There are a number of serious and potential life-threatening conditions that have been tied to untreated periodontal disease.  We now have conclusive evidence that periodontal care can not only reduce the risk of heart issues, but can lower blood pressure and promote a healthier heart as well. 

 

Whether you currently have periodontal disease or heart issues or are concerned about developing them in the future, it’s never too soon to seek periodontal diagnosis and care. The CDC estimates that nearly half of US adults have mild to severe gum disease, and therefore are putting themselves at risk of developing serious health problems. Don’t become a statistic, contact our dental team today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the life-saving benefits of periodontal care. 

Dr. Karl Smith

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

61 Post Office Rd. Suite 1-B,
Waldorf, MD 20602
Phone: (301) 638-4867

Alexandria VA Periodontist | Signs It’s Time to Visit a Periodontist 

Posted on by IdentityDental

Gum disease is an alarmingly common problem among US adults. With over 3 million new cases diagnosed each year, it’s one of the most prevalent oral health issues faced today. Detection and treatment is important, as untreated gum disease can lead to serious health issues including heart disease, stroke, lung disease, and more. The extent of damage caused by the disease is directly correlated to how long it remains untreated. 

If your mouth is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it could be a warning sign of early stages of periodontal disease. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our doctor. 

 

1. An Increase in Related Health Issues

Periodontal disease is shown to be directly correlated to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, lung disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and more. If you are suffering from any of these conditions, it could be tied to untreated periodontal issues. 

 

2.Frequent Bleeding

If you experience regular, unexplained bleeding of the gums while brushing, flossing, or eating, it could be a sign of periodontal infection. 

 

3. Gum Recession

As the bacteria that causes periodontal disease infects your gums, it can cause them to recede. Eventually, the bacteria can reach your jawbone and lead to greater infection and loss of teeth. 

 

4. Chronic Bad Breath

If you experience chronic bad breath despite your best efforts to relieve it, it may be caused by untreated infection or gum disease. 

 

5. Swollen or Sensitive Gums

If your gums are frequently swollen, irritated, or sensitive without explanation, it could be a sign of a building infection under the surface. 

 

  1. You’ve Never Visited a Periodontist

The CDC estimates that nearly half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from some degree of gum disease, yet few recognize the benefits of visiting a periodontist. An oral healthcare routine that includes twice daily brushing, regular flossing, twice yearly dental cleanings, and regular periodontal exams are your best line of defense against developing periodontal disease. 

 

If any of these signs sound familiar, you could be at risk for developing periodontal disease, or may already be affected without knowing it. Contact our office today to schedule an examination with our doctor. If signs of periodontal disease are present, we’ll recommend a treatment plan focused on protecting your oral and overall health. 

Alexandria VA Periodontist | Vaping’s Effect on Oral Health 

Posted on by IdentityDental

While it’s often portrayed as a safe alternative to smoking, the risks associated with vaping are not yet clear. Recent studies have indicated that e-cigarette vapors could have a damaging effect on your mouth. Here’s what you need to know. 

E-Juice Ingredients  

Electronic cigarettes are not regulated like other tobacco products, meaning there is little oversight of their ingredients. E-juice can include any number of harmful substances, including nicotine, glycerin, chemical flavoring, propylene glycol, and more. While some of these ingredients have been proven safe in other uses, such as artificial flavoring in foods, the effects they can have when heated and inhaled have not been fully researched. 

 

Vaping and Oral Health 

A recent study from UCLA found that vapors from an e-cigarette can kill the cells in your oral cavity, the area of your mouth beyond your teeth and gums. After placing oral cells in an environment where electronic cigarette smoke was produced for 24 hours, researchers found that 85% of the exposed cells had died. These oral cavity cells function as an important part of your body’s natural defense system. As they die or become less effective, your mouth becomes more vulnerable to oral diseases.  

 

Another study run by the University of Rochester Medical Center concluded that e-cigarettes can be just as bad for your gums as traditional tobacco products. Nicotine, which both types of cigarettes contain, is a known factor in contributing to gum disease. 

 

Steps You Can Take  

Since e-cigarettes have been shown to cause many of the same oral health problems as regular cigarettes, it’s best to avoid smoking either. Both have been shown to negatively impact the cells of your oral cavity that your body uses to defend itself against dangerous bacteria and other substances. Without your mouth’s natural defense system, you open yourself up to oral disease.  

 

Make sure you are regularly visiting our office, especially if you are a smoker of either traditional or electronic cigarettes. Our experienced dental team will perform a complete oral examination during your visit to check for signs of oral disease. Being proactive is your best defense against oral disease.  

 

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit, please contact us. 

 

Dr. Karl Smith

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

601 Post Office Rd. Suite 1-B,
Waldorf, MD 20602
Phone: (301) 638-4867

Alexandria VA Periodontist | Gum Health Alert: Periodontal Pockets

Posted on by IdentityDental

If you have red, swollen gums, receding gums or experience bleeding while brushing, you could be at risk for gum disease.  

 

What is a Periodontal Pocket? 

Periodontal pockets form along the gum line and are one of the major signs of gum disease. A healthy tooth will have gums that fit snug and are a light pink color with pockets no more than 3 millimeters in depth. If a tooth is suffering from gum disease, the gum begins to recede from the tooth and form a pocket. These periodontal pockets act as a place for more plaque and bacteria to collect, furthering the progression of the disease. If not treated, periodontal pockets can lead to further infection and could lead to tooth loss.  

Periodontal Pocket Treatment 

Treatment often begins with a periodontal cleaning which allows for thorough removal of infection and bacteria below the gum line. This keeps the disease from progressing.  

 

Periodontal Pocket Prevention 

 

Practicing optimal oral hygiene is the best way to prevent gum disease and periodontal pockets. Using a soft bristled brush to gently clean along the gum line twice a day and flossing once a day, along with keeping regular professional dental care will help to prevent this disease.  

 

Contact us today to schedule your next professional exam and cleaning. 

Waldorf, MD Location

601 Post Office Rd., Suite 1-B
Waldorf, MD 20602

(301) 638-4867

Alexandria, VA Location

2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria, VA 22302

(703) 894-4867

 

Periodontist in Alexandria | Dental Radiographs (X-Rays) and Your Oral Health

Posted on by IdentityDental

22302 Periodontist

Radiographs, or x-rays, provide important diagnostic information for your dentist, allowing for proper and accurate treatment. The technology behind radiographs has improved rapidly over the last few decades, becoming safer, more accurate, and easier to use. Read our guide on what makes dental radiographs an important step to protecting your oral health.

What exactly are dental radiographs?

Radiographs are a form of electromagnetic radiation similar to visible light or radio waves that can be used to map out the inside of your body. Soft tissue such as skin or muscle allow most rays to pass through, creating a darker image, while denser materials like your teeth and bone tissue cause a brighter image. These radiographs can be used to help diagnose and examine anything from tooth decay to broken bones.

Are they safe?

Radiographs are completely safe, exposing you to even less radiation than the average exposure you receive from your typical environment. In addition, digital x-rays require even less radiation than traditional film x-ray technology.

Why do I need them?

Using radiographs allows us to observe your oral health in ways that we cannot examine with the naked eye. Our team can check for tooth decay, bone damage, or endodontic issues in your mouth. We can observe the position of your teeth to determine if any are impacted or experiencing crowding. Deeper concerns that are difficult to otherwise notice such as cysts, tumors, or abscesses show up easily on radiographs. By seeing the internal state of your mouth, we can plan treatment that will ensure your oral health is optimal.

Radiographs are important tools to give us insight into your oral health, screen for oral cancer, and help us to recommend treatment plans. They allow us to serve you with accuracy and confidence in our work. To schedule your next dental visit with our team, contact our office today.

2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128, Alexandria, VA 22302

Waldorf Periodontist | Don’t Rush to Brush

Posted on by IdentityDental

22302 Periodontist

Are you a diligent brusher who grabs the toothbrush as soon as you finish each snack or meal? While there are significant benefits to regular brushing, hurrying your hygiene might be doing more harm than good. The key lies in understanding the effects different types of food and drinks have on your teeth.

The Dangers of Acidic Foods

Food and drinks that contain acids are particularly harmful to your teeth. Acid can wear away at the enamel on your teeth. As your enamel weakens, your risk for developing decay increases.

What Foods Should I Look Out For?

Fruits such as oranges, pineapples, and grapefruit contain problematic acids that can cause damage to your enamel. Diet sodas and wines can be just as damaging, as can fruit juices such as orange juice. Tomato products and foods such as pizza, salsa, soups, and sauces also contain acids.

But Brushing My Teeth Helps, Right?

Not necessarily. The acids in these foods weaken the enamel on your teeth. After eating or drinking a highly acidic product, your teeth are in a particularly vulnerable state. Enamel protects your teeth, and it is the strongest mineral in your entire body. However, the layers of your teeth beneath the enamel are not as strong and resilient. If you brush your teeth immediately after consuming something acidic, you can drive the acid further into your teeth. This speeds up the process of breaking down your enamel.

When Should I Brush?

Wait about 20 minutes after consuming acidic foods or drinks before brushing your teeth. While waiting, your mouth will produce saliva which helps to neutralize acids and wash away bacteria. Drinking water, rinsing your mouth, or chewing sugarless gum can help neutralize acids more quickly.

Should I Always Wait to Brush My Teeth?

While you should not rush to brush after eating acidic foods, you should not wait long after eating foods that are extremely sticky and sugary. If you are eating candy, taffy, or another sticky treat, waiting is not the best option. The sooner you can clean these sugary substances off your teeth, the better.

Should I Just Stop Eating Acidic Foods?

Acidic foods such as fruits contain vitamins and nutrients that are an essential component to your diet. While you don’t have to avoid these foods altogether, you should be mindful of how they impact your teeth. Maintain a daily oral hygiene schedule that includes regular flossing and at least two rounds of brushing for two minutes.

For more dental health tips, or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us.

2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128, Alexandria, VA 22302

Periodontist in Alexandria | 5 Diseases Linked to Poor Gum Health

Posted on by IdentityDental

22302 Periodontist

Poor oral health is usually linked with bad breath, and rightfully so.  But as it turns out, keeping your gums healthy helps lower your risk for many diseases, including the following:

Arthritis:

Periodontal (gum) disease is an inflammatory disorder where the gums become inflamed and the immune system starts to attack its own tissues.  This is precisely what causes the pain that many people with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). There have been several studies done that show there is a link between RA and periodontal disease, but now there is some evidence that there may be a direct causation.

The European Congress of Rheumatology did a study on 636 patients with varying levels of teeth lost from gum disease.  They found that the participants with 10 or fewer teeth were 8 times more likely to have arthritis than those who retained all of their original teeth (32, including wisdom teeth).

Cardiovascular:

While more circumstantial, there is evidence to show that there is a strong link between good oral and heart health.  Because periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition, patients may be at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis, which is hardening of arteries due to inflammation.  Having healthy gums reduces your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Respiratory Infections

Your mouth and lungs are both a part of respiratory system, so it is possible for the bacteria in the mouth to travel to the lungs.

Most types of bacteria in your mouth are benign and do nothing more than aid in digesting food particles in the mouth.  However pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria can enter the mouth and, with poor oral care, may find a prime environment to thrive before spreading from the mouth into the lungs where they can cause health problems.  The good news is that keeping your mouth clean with regular brushing and flossing lessens their impact, and helps keep the rest of you healthier, too!

Pregnancy Complications

Up to 70% of women develop gingivitis during their pregnancy, creatively referred to as “pregnancy gingivitis.”  Hormone levels change during the pregnancy which cause an inflammatory response that then can increase the risk of developing periodontal diseases.

Studies have shown a strong link of periodontal disease with preterm labor.  In a normal pregnancy, a balance of inflammatory proteins is counterbalanced by anti-inflammatory proteins.  However, when a pregnant woman has gum disease, the high levels of inflammation protein can induce preterm labor or other complications, putting the health of both the mother and the developing baby at risk.

Cancer

A U.S. study found that people with severe gum disease are not only at risk of losing teeth, but also at a greater risk for cancer.  The study found that those with healthy gums had a 24% less chance of having any kind of cancer, and a 50% less likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Good News

Fortunately, gum disease is highly preventable!  For more information on how a healthy mouth makes for a healthy body or to make an appointment, call our office today!

Sources:

https://www.absolutedental.com/blog/10-health-issues-caused-by-bad-oral-health/

https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/comorbidities/gum-disease/ra-and-gum-disease.php

https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/features/periodontal-disease-heart-health#1

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gum-disease/how-periodontal-disease-affects-your-lungs-0815

http://theconversation.com/how-gum-disease-in-pregnant-women-poses-a-risk-to-their-newborns-55484

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-periodontitis-cancer/cancer-risk-elevated-with-severe-gum-disease-idUSKBN1FJ2CA

2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128, Alexandria, VA 22302