Gum Disease

Gum disease affects as many as 75% of the population in some form.  In the earliest phase, gingivitis signified by gum inflammation and bleeding gums can be managed with the proper protocol from your dentist. When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a dental infection, receding gums and tooth loss. Gum disease has also been linked to a variety of medical conditions. Most recently, study results published in the Journal of Periodontology  demonstrate that gum disease increases the risk for […]

This is an alert for pregnant women who are at an increased risk for developing gingivitis(periodontal disease), pregnancy tumors, and mild to severe gingival enlargement, according to a recent report published in General Dentistry, a peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry. In the olden days, pregnant women were not likely to go the dentist. There were concerns about the safety of dental procedures during pregnancy. However, today there has been more awareness created about the importance of oral […]

Forteo, also known under the generic name teriparatide, is marketed by Eli Lilly to re-grow bone in osteoporosis patients. In fact, it is the only FDA approved drug of its type. Soon, however, the FDA may approve Forteo for the treatment of bone loss in gum disease patients. People who have gum disease are known to experience bone loss around the affected gums in the mid to late stage of periodontal disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth […]

Gum disease currently affects eight out of ten people; however, symptoms often go unnoticed, leading Surgeon General David Satcher to call it the “silent epidemic.” To ensure our patients win the battle against gum disease, our Austin dentists use the latest innovation in gum protection: Perio Protect^®. In a recent study, this new, minimally invasive method of gum protection was shown to kill virtually all of the harmful bacteria that cause gum disease. Whether we’re protecting our patients with Perio […]

Recently, researchers have found that Aloe Vera can be useful for enhancing healing and minimizing pain associated with certain oral conditions. In addition, there are also anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immunological benefits offered in Aloe Vera. Here’s a fast recap of the benefits of Aloe Vera used in dentistry. Gum Abrasions If you’ve disrupted your gum tissue with a toothbrush abrasion, sharp foods, dental floss, toothpicks or periodontal surgery, the application of Aloe Vera directly to the affected site can reduce […]

We all have good and bad bacteria microbes that inhabit our bodies. Our immune system is responsible for fending off harmful organisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses while maintaining a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria. Our immune system may fail to maintain a natural bacterial balance when the immune system is weakened, hormones change, smoking, good bacteria is destroyed, dry mouth syndrome occurs, and ph balance and acidity levels are thrown off kilter. Certain medications such as chemotherapy, […]

At the annual meeting of the American Society for Microbiology in San Diego recently, researchers from the University of Florida announced a study of the mutant strain called P. gingivalis (PG0717) and how this mutant may affect  Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other neurological diseases. Scientists do not know how these neurodegenerative diseases surface, but researchers Progulske-Fox and her colleagues know that clustered proteins form plaque build up that can affect people’s neurons. The researchers believe that if cells can be directed […]

If you are like many people that know they are at risk for periodontal disease, you can have comfort in knowing that there are advanced technologies to identify your risk, simple ways to prevent it and improved techniques for treatment. One thing is for certain. A multi-prong approach focusing on detection, prevention and treatment offers the best opportunity for you to prevent the condition from progressing over time. Check out the details! Detection Micro-IDent^® Plus Technology: This technology allows for […]

If you are like many of the people in the U.S. that have periodontal disease, it’s important to be aware of risks and symptoms to preserve the longevity of your teeth. Some may refer to periodontal disease as a silent killer because it can creep up on you. Unless you are going for regular general dentistry cleanings, you may neglect the mild symptoms that truly suggest the advent of a much bigger problem to come. The signs of periodontal disease […]

Fighting off bio films is the latest number one health priority among many dentists today. First, let’s clear this up- what are biofilms? Biofilms are an unhealthy layer of bacteria pathogens, fungi and poisonous microbes that form in the gums and mouth. Research has mounted to prove that biofilms can enter the body, cause inflammation and contribute to several diseases. Biofilm Pathways When biofilms are found in the mouth, they can localize in pockets between gum tissue and teeth which […]