Dentist in Alexandria | How Can You Tell if You Have Gingivitis?

Posted on by IdentityDental
3d render of tooth in bleeding gums over white background. Periodontal disease concept.

Gingivitis is among the most common oral health issues. It is especially prevalent in adults over 40. If it is left untreated, this early form of periodontal disease can lead to significant oral health issues. However, it can be effectively treated if it is caught soon enough. In many cases, it can be reversed. Here is what you need to know about gingivitis.

Signs and Symptoms of Gingivitis

Gingivitis often leads to swollen gums that appear red or purple, painful or tender. It can also involve bleeding when brushing and flossing. Bad breath (halitosis) is another frequent side-effect of gingivitis. A buildup of plaque or tartar is sometimes visible as well. Many people have gingivitis without knowing it, as symptoms do not always appear in the early stages.

Preventing Gingivitis

Gingivitis can usually be prevented through proper oral hygiene habits. Your best line of defense is brushing twice daily for two minutes each time. It is also essential to clean between your teeth daily by flossing. This helps to prevent the buildup of plaque and harmful bacteria. As plaque builds up near the gum line, gingivitis can develop.

Gingivitis Treatment

Gingivitis is the first of four stages of periodontal disease and the only one that can be completely reversed. If left untreated, it progresses to slight periodontal disease. This occurs when infection has spread and begun to attack the bone beneath. The second stage can be managed but not reversed. Moderate periodontal disease is the third stage. It results in deeper pockets around teeth which invite even more bacteria to attack the jawbones. Finally, advanced periodontal disease causes extreme sensitivity, loosened teeth, and bone loss.

It is easy to see why it is important to monitor your gum health regularly. Talk to our experienced periodontal team if you have experienced symptoms of gingivitis. If you smoke, have diabetes, are elderly, or take certain medications, you are at a higher risk for developing gingivitis. Be good to your gums by brushing twice each day and flossing daily. Keeping your teeth free of plaque is the simplest way to keep your gums healthy. For questions about your periodontal health or to schedule a visit to our office in Alexandria, please contact us.

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

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



Periodontist in Alexandria | How Dental Implants Can Change Your Life

Posted on by IdentityDental
Dental model on white background.

Dental implants provide a long-term solution for tooth loss, and they can improve more than just your smile. Nearly 180 million American adults are missing at least one tooth and 40 million have lost all their permanent teeth, according to the American College of Prosthodontists.

Regardless of the cause, tooth loss can have serious consequences on your oral health, appearance, speech, diet, and self-esteem. If you are considering dental implant restorations, here are five ways they can change your life for the better:

  • Dental implants can make you look younger. During early adulthood, the teeth and jawbone work together to support facial features. When teeth are lost, facial skin can crease or droop near the gaps. Jawbone deterioration can lead to reduced support, causing an unnaturally aged appearance.
  • Dental implants can improve your speech. Missing teeth can leave gaps that cause vocal impediments. Dentures can be bulky or become loose, leading to discomfort, slurred speech, and embarrassment. Dental implants stay secure and do not take up additional space in the mouth, so you can speak naturally.
  • Dental implants can help preserve your jawbone. The roots of teeth are naturally embedded in the jawbone. When the tooth and root are missing, your jaw’s bone structure can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants help to preserve and strengthen the bone, just as healthy natural teeth do.
  • Dental implants keep your teeth in place. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift into the opening, distorting the shape of your smile and bite. Dental implants fill the gap and hold your surrounding teeth in their correct positions.
  • Dental implants are secure and permanent. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are surgically implanted in the jawbone, where they act as root substitutes for missing teeth. The titanium implant fuses with the jawbone, so it will not slip or dislodge. Implants also do not make noise or damage bone the way dentures or bridges can.

Dental implants can work wonders for your oral health and self-esteem. They look like natural teeth, restore your facial support and help preserve jawbone structure. They also improve your smile: Gaps in your teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious about your appearance. Studies show that feeling good about your smile boosts your confidence, alleviates loneliness, and improves your social life.

Dental implant restoration is a safe and modern way to restore your smile. To learn more about the benefits of dental implant restoration, contact our Alexandria office for your consultation.

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

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

Alexandria VA Periodontist | Common Causes and Risk Factors of Gum Disease

Posted on by IdentityDental

Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis) has affected many Americans across the country and continues to do so. According to a study published in 2012, the American Academy of Periodontology revealed that nearly 65 million, or 47% of American adults over the age of 30 suffer from gum disease. That number skyrocketed to 70% for adults older than the age of 65.

Alexandria VA Dentist

Improper oral hygiene can often lead to gingivitis, which is a milder form of gum disease often characterized by red, swollen gums that sometimes bleed. Left untreated, gingivitis can commonly advance to periodontitis. In this scenario, bacteria will continue to amass below the gum line. Over time, tissue separation around the teeth causes pockets to develop. These pockets can deepen or become infected, ultimately leading to loose teeth or bone loss.
Understanding some of the causes and risk factors associated with gum disease can help to alleviate your likelihood of developing it in the future. Here are a few indicators to be aware of:

1) Proper Oral Hygiene
Plaque continues to be one of the most prominent risk factors of gum disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day, along with flossing regularly, can greatly reduce plaque build-up in your mouth. Scheduling regular dental checkups every six months are also great for your dental health.

2) Tobacco Use
Although tobacco use is often associated with chronic health issues such as lung and heart disease, it can also impact the mouth. Tobacco users are susceptible to periodontal disease as the nicotine found within these products reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to the vessels in the mouth. In addition to traditional smoking products, the increasingly popular electronic cigarettes have also been linked to gum disease.

3) Genetics
Regardless of appropriate and consistent oral hygiene, some people are simply genetically predisposed to gum disease. Research has shown that as much as 30% of the population might be susceptible to periodontal disease due to a genetic predisposition. Genetic testing allows for the early identification and appropriate treatment of these patients.

4) Medications
Oral health can be impacted by many over-the-counter and prescription medications. Antihistamines, antidepressants, immunosuppressives and oral contraceptives can all impact your oral health. Whereas some medications can lead to swelling in the gums, others will lead to dry mouth. A lack of saliva production opens up the mouth to a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. As a rule of thumb, always keep your dental care provider informed of both your medication usage and your overall health.

5) Stress
The onset of stress limits the body’s ability to ward off infections. Stress has been associated with a variety of health issues including heart disease, high blood pressure, and even periodontal disease.

6) Diabetes
Diabetes is an example of a systemic disease that inhibits the body’s inflammatory system. When diabetes is difficult to control, higher blood sugar is often the result. Blood supply to the gums is reduced and dry mouth becomes prevalent. A decrease in saliva can allow for the onset of tooth-decaying bacteria.

7) Nutritional Deficiencies
While most of us think of poor nutrition impacting our waistlines, it can also serve to compromise our body’s immune system. A diet rich in H2O and balanced with vitamin C will help to fight off infections such as periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease should never be taken lightly. If you’ve been diagnosed by your Alexandria periodontist, it’s time to get the care you need to restore a healthy mouth and life. Schedule a visit with Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS today and trust your periodontitis to our practiced care.

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

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

Alexandria VA Periodontist | The Importance Of Dental Specialists Working Together

Posted on by IdentityDental

If you’ve spent any amount of time with missing teeth, you know just how detrimental it can be to your quality of life. You may be ready to finally do something about it and restore your smile with a dental implant. However, if you’ve spent too much time with those teeth missing, you may have a problem.

Alexandria VA Periodontist |

Teeth have a natural ability to move due to periodontal ligaments and a thin layer of bony-like material called cementum. When you have a full smile, this ability for teeth to shift is not all that noticeable as the pressure from surrounding teeth tend to help everything stay in place.

However, when there is a gap from a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth suddenly have a lot more room to move, and will take up the space quickly. As a result, if you’ve gone a long time with missing teeth, your remaining teeth may have moved into the vacant area, blocking the place where your dental implant restoration needs to go.

In order to remedy this situation and get your mouth ready for your implants, it may be necessary to correct your alignment with orthodontics.

Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, is used to incrementally change the position of your teeth to get them back in place. When your teeth are back in place, your doctor will be able to place the implant. While orthodontics are an extremely effective method of correction, traditional metal braces can be quite noticeable in the mouth.

For those adults who may need orthodontic treatment, there are multiple options to choose from that can fit your lifestyle and your needs. If this is the case, one possible option may be found in the form of clear aligners.

While there are many aligner systems on the market today, many know about Invisalign or have seen a commercial for the system. Changed roughly every two weeks, these plastic trays are worn consistently to achieve the same effect as braces, but with a lower profile.

Regardless of which option works best for your needs, this process speaks to the interrelatedness all dental professionals must share in order to give you the smile of your dreams. Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS is happy to play its part in helping you smile with confidence again.

If you need to schedule an appointment, or want to ask us any questions about your current treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact our Alexandria Periodontist. We are here to help you smile and look forward to doing so.

 

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

Periodontist in Waldorf | Is It Time To See a Periodontist?

Posted on by IdentityDental

Periodontist in WaldorfAccording to a study done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 50 percent of American adults have some form of periodontal disease. If you have concerns you may have gum disease, or have trouble keeping your gum disease under control, learning the symptoms of gum disease should be the next step in considering a visit to your Periodontist.

 

What is a Periodontist?

Periodontists are experts in gum disease. They receive extensive training that includes 3 extra years of specialized education in addition to dental school. They take this time to study the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal diseases. Periodontists handle a variety of treatments such as scaling and root planing or surface debridement. They can also treat severe gum problems with the use of  surgical procedures. With such a level of specialization related to gum disease, a periodontist can significantly better your dental health in many cases.

 

Should I see a Periodontist?

In some instances, your normal dentist is able to handle your periodontal needs. Your dentist can also help in determining if a periodontist is necessary. Some general signs to visit a periodontist can include painful, swollen, receding, or bleeding gums. Loose teeth or changes in your bite can be bigger signs of gum disease, and indicate that if you haven’t done so already, it is definitely time to give our office a call.

 

Scheduling an appointment with a periodontist preemptively can be very beneficial. Periodontal disease is usually painless and can remain undetected for some time without the proper assessment. Taking initiative when it comes to your oral health is very important.

 

Knowing the signs of gum disease is just as important as knowing when to visit a periodontist. Gum disease is very treatable and taking the steps quickly enough can make a big difference in your oral health. If you have any concerns or want to schedule an appointment, contact our periodontal office today for more information.

 

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

Waldorf Periodontist | Why Your Pants Can Have Pockets, But Your Gums Shouldn’t

Posted on by IdentityDental

Periodontist in WaldorfIf you’re one of the nearly 50% of American adults who suffer from periodontal disease, it’s likely that your gums have already begun to recede away from your teeth, creating what are known as gum pockets. Normal healthy gums should fit snugly around your teeth, keeping them in place and protected from bacteria. As such, gum pockets are the exact opposite of what you want for your oral health.

As these pockets deepen over time, they expose your teeth and their vulnerable roots to all kinds of bacteria that can wreak havoc on your oral health. In fact, these pockets actually serve as a space for this harmful bacteria to collect, where it will eventually permeate under the gum and infect your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

If you don’t have gum pockets, awesome. You should maintain your oral healthcare routine to make sure it stays that way. If you do have them, not all hope is lost.

If your gums are in a bad state, your Periodontist can provide you with the treatment you need to restore your health. During the procedure, your gum tissue will be folded back, and thoroughly cleansed of all disease-causing bacteria before being secured back in place. This also allows your gum tissue to reattach to healthy bone and limit your chances of reinfection.

It’s important to get your periodontal pockets taken care of as soon as possible, as deeper pockets are more difficult to treat. Reducing depth and cleaning the bacteria are both critical to maintaining a healthy smile.

Because of the nature of gum disease, you will need to work with your Periodontist to make sure your oral care routine is strong, even after the procedure, as the disease can easily return. Together, you and our periodontal team’s professional care will increase your chances of keeping your natural teeth and steering clear or periodontal disease in the future.

If you are in the middle of your periodontal care, make sure you schedule your next appointment with our office to maintain your healthy, pocket free gums.

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