Gum Disease

Although vaping is considered by some to be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, research shows that these electronic cigarettes can still cause a variety of health issues, including to the mouth. In addition to the toxic ingredients often used in vape products, the heated vapor produced by e-cigarettes has been found to change the type of bacteria that grows in the mouth, creating more concern about the dangers of vaping. For those who regularly smoke — whether with vape pens, […]

As part of Austin Dental Spa’s video series, Dr. Mark Sweeney provides another educational session focused on the link between oral health and memory loss. During the video segment, Dr. Sweeney talks about how the connection between your mouth and memory can impact overall brain function. The first link he explains is the act of chewing. Referencing a study, Dr. Sweeney says nerves beneath your tooth are connected to the brain and can help stimulate neural activity. If someone has […]

As our cosmetic dentist, Mark Sweeny, DDS, explains in the video below, bleeding gums usually point either to minor injury or gum disease. At Austin Dental Spa, we’re equipped with state-of-the-art techniques and technology to ensure each patient gets the best possible periodontal care. Our patients are always welcome to reach out with questions related to gum health or any other oral health concern. “Bleeding gums are sometimes caused by minor injuries,” says Dr. Sweeney, “like biting into a tortilla chip […]

A loose tooth is normal when younger, as the adult teeth are growing in, but when a permanent tooth becomes loose, this can be a cause for concern. There are a variety of reasons why a person’s tooth may become loose during adulthood, and depending on the cause, your dentist can help you find the most appropriate solution. Common reasons for a loose tooth include: Gum Disease: A buildup of harmful bacteria leads to periodontal pockets and gum recession, which […]

If your gums are red, swollen, and easily bleed when you brush or floss, you may have gingivitis. This is the mildest form of gum disease, which means your gums have become infected. Fortunately, you can treat this problem before it gets worse. While infected gums are relatively common, it’s important that you seek care as soon as you notice symptoms. This will allow you to get effective treatment through the least invasive approach. A variety of treatment options are […]

With gum disease affecting millions of Americans each year, it’s important to know that the health implications of this common condition can go well beyond red or inflamed gum tissue. Caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar, gum disease can eventually lead to bleeding of the gums, spaces between the teeth, loose teeth, and even tooth loss when left untreated. In addition to these side effects, recent research conducted by the University of Southampton and King’s College London is […]

At the American Association for Dental Research meeting, members of the association gathered to discuss the results of research that measured medical costs for diabetics in relation to periodontal therapy. The study involved a group of diabetic participants with periodontal disease who received medical and dental treatment and a group who did not receive treatment over a three year time period. The periodontal treatment group received treatment in the first year and maintained treatment thereafter. The control group may have […]

Gum disease occurs in 75% of the population and recent research demonstrates that people are more inclined to experience gum disease in senior years. It has been determined that a drop in the level of Del-1, a chemical in the oral cavity, is responsible for poor gum health in seniors. The study results were founded based on research by the Queen Mary, University of London in collaboration with research groups in the USA.  The study results were published in Nature […]

Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless film that may form on the surface of your teeth.  Some people may be more prone to dental plaque than others. For example, people taking certain medications, those who eat lots of sugary foods, and those who do not implement a healthy oral hygiene regimen are more prone to dental plaque than others. It is vital to prevent the buildup of dental plaque to protect your teeth over the course of your lifetime. So, […]

Gum disease is traditionally prevented by proper oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, as well as, root planing and scaling when at risk. One day in the future the prevention of gum disease may be taken to new heights with an additional treatment designed to disrupt the connections between disease causing molecules and normal bacteria. In this way, there may be an opportunity to prevent gum disease and tooth loss associated with gum disease. Study results outlined in the journal Microbiology […]