Types of Gum Disease, an article from the American Academy of Periodontology

Good afternoon,

Today we are sharing an article from the American Academy of Periodontology which talks about the different types of gum disease. No one likes to talk about gum disease, let alone think about it. But it's important for us to educate our patients on the realities of gum disease so they can be diligent in working to prevent them. After all, the best cure is prevention!

The two types of gum disease mentioned in the article are:

• GINGIVITIS
• PERIODONTITIS

Gingivitis is the milder form (or early stages) of Periodontitis. "It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene."

"Untreated gingivitis can advance to Periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed."

To read more about the risk factors and learn how you can help prevent these two types of gum disease, visit: https://www.perio.org/consumer/types-gum-disease.html

**If you want to have your gums looked at, or are concerned that you may be experiencing signs of either of these diseases, come see us! We can help you in a friendly, non-judgmental environment. We treat our patients like family and only want the best for them. Schedule your first visit today at:

 http://germantowndentalcare.com/

Oral Health Matters: Especially During Pregnancy

Today we are sharing an informational pdf from Crest Oral Professionals, on the importance of good oral health during pregnancy and some facts many don't realize. Many women know to take vitamins, watch their diet and exercise as much as they can while pregnant, but it's also important not to overlook your teeth!

If you are pregnant and would like a check up to make sure you are doing everything you can for your oral health, visit us today!  http://germantowndentalcare.com/

http://www.dentalcare.com/media/en-US/patient/pregnancy/WBH_Fact_Sheet_Patients.pdf

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Good afternoon!

You may be wondering if we consider teeth whitening safe- well the answer is yes, but it depends! With so many teeth whitening options out there, it can be a bit confusing to navigate the best choice for your smile. According to the American Dental Association "The ADA recommends that if you choose to use a bleaching product, you should only do so after consultation with a dentist. This is especially important for patients with many fillings, crowns, and extremely dark stains. A thorough oral examination, performed by a licensed dentist, is essential to determine if bleaching is an appropriate course of treatment. The dentist and patient together can determine the most appropriate treatment. The dentist may then advise the patient and supervise the use of bleaching agents within the context of a comprehensive, appropriately sequenced treatment plan."

We do offer professional whitening services here at Germantown Dental Care and would be more than happy to talk to you about your teeth and whitening options. Schedule your appointment today at: http://germantowndentalcare.com/

To learn more about the different whitening products and how they work, visit: http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/ada-positions-policies-and-statements/tooth-whitening-safety-and-effectiveness

Sorry Haters, But You Can’t Stop Flossing Your Teeth Just Yet

You may or may not be aware of all of the latest buzz in today's news about flossing. This article below does a great job of explaining why we encourage all of our patients to continue flossing! One recent study doesn't necessarily undue years of practice. Please take a look at the article below and keep flossing!! 

If you have any questions you can visit us at: http://germantowndentalcare.com/ 

"For years, dentists have recommended flossing as an essential element of dental hygiene. But according to a new report by the Associated Press, the medical benefits of flossing may be total bunk.

The news made the rounds Tuesday, causing nothing short of a media uproar. Everyone from the Department of Health and Human Services to the American Dental Association has recommended daily flossing to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease and cavities, but according to the AP, these claims have been based on research with major flaws, such as outdated testing methods and all-too-brief study lengths.

But dental professionals say it’s not quite time to ditch the floss. A lack of good research doesn’t prove something is ineffective ― just that it hasn’t been a priority for research funding."

To continue reading this article, visit: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/dont-stop-flossing-your-teeth_us_57a0d8e9e4b08a8e8b5fab3e?oem1vs53u4x49ara4i

Welcome to Germantown Dental Care!