At times, life can seem to move quickly. Between work, school, sports, and social events, it can seem there is little time left for you and your health. It’s imperative for a healthy mouth and body to always have your next dental appointment scheduled and to prioritize this care. Our team will work with you to find the most convenient day and time for you. If you need to reschedule, we will do our best to accommodate you. Advanced notice of a change is greatly appreciated, whenever possible. Missed appointments without notice are harmful to our practice, as we’ve reserved your appointment time exclusively for you.

Missed dental appointments can lead to worsened oral and overall health. Whether receiving preventive or restorative care, if left without professional treatment, plaque and decay will progress and the state of your oral health will likely decline. Some of our patients are predisposed to more frequent oral health issues. Many times, these guests prefer more frequent office visits. Please know this is an option for you as well. Investing in one extra cleaning each year can often prevent more costly concerns.

We know it can be tempting to skip your dental appointment. Perhaps you’d rather be relaxing at home or you’ve had a last-minute obligation arise. Please make every effort to prioritize your healthy smile, as it significantly contributes to your overall health.

Please know we’re here for you. If you have any questions about our care or practice philosophy, don’t hesitate to contact us.

For seniors, it is imperative that gum health is a top priority. As you age, your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases. Periodontal disease is both preventable, and in many cases, reversible. When left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as bloody or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. Even more alarming are the numerous studies connecting periodontal disease to other serious illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about gum health as you age.

Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health
Periodontal disease has been linked to serious health issues. In fact, a recent study conducted by the University of Southampton and King’s College London uncovered a link between periodontal disease and an increase in the rate of cognitive decline in those who suffer from early Alzheimer’s disease. In patients with periodontal disease, the study found cognitive decline underwent a rapid change, occurring six times as fast on average.

Periodontal disease has also been found to increase your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. Risk factors for these serious issues increase with age, among other causes, and it is especially important to limit potential risk factors where possible. This can be as easy as improving your gum health with a visit to our office.

The Numbers You Need to Know
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, moderate or severe periodontal disease was found in over 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74. The number increases to more than 20% for those over 75 years of age. Men were found to be more likely than women to have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Smoking was also found to have a significant impact. The same study showed 32% of current smokers had periodontal disease, compared to 14% for those who never smoked.

Steps You Can Take
As you age, it is essential to keep up with your gum health. Doing so is an important link in lowering your risk factors for other serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, and the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. You can keep your gums healthy by brushing twice each day for a full two minutes. Be sure to regularly floss your teeth as well. Flossing is an effective way to clean the hard-to-reach cracks and gaps where plaque builds up. Schedule a visit with our team for a complete gum evaluation. We can work with you to devise a course of action to ensure healthy gums.

Many people may be under the false assumption that the worst consequence of poor oral health is a loss of teeth. However, the results of neglect can be much more painful and dangerous. Periodontitis is an extreme gum infection that can lead to damaged teeth, gums, and jawbone, and can put you at higher risk for stroke, heart and lung disease, miscarriage, and more. While periodontal disease is incredibly serious, it’s relatively easy to prevent through proper oral care and regular professional dental care. Here are some facts to know about periodontal disease, as well as tips on how to prevent and treat it.

A Common Problem
Periodontitis is a relatively common problem that impacts over 3 million adults in the US every year. The primary cause is poor oral hygiene that allows bacteria to fester in between the teeth and gums. An infection could occur, potentially leading to tooth loss, gum recession, and more. If caught and addressed early enough, your oral care provider can typically mitigate the potential damage. However, practicing better oral care at home can often protect you from the risk of periodontitis in the first place.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
There are different warning signs to keep an eye out for that may help you catch periodontitis in its earlier stages. The most prominent issue that most people with periodontal disease will run into is swollen and irritated gums. However, chronic bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and bleeding gums can all also be symptoms a person with advanced stages of periodontitis may encounter. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule an examination and cleaning with our team as soon as possible.

Periodontitis Treatment Options
The optimal treatment plan for periodontitis largely depends on how early the problem is caught. In its early stages, periodontitis can often be easily treated. However, depending on the level of degradation your gums have experienced, professional treatments such as scaling and root planing might be necessary. If you think you might be suffering from periodontal disease, don’t wait another day to schedule an appointment with our dentist, as early intervention is essential to minimizing the extent of the damage.