New Report Indicates Men are More Likely to Suffer From Chicago Gum Disease
Despite Education and Training, Poor Oral Hygiene Habits Continue
Many Americans today suffer from common symptoms of gum disease, including bad breath, oral discomfort, red, swollen, bleeding gums, tooth decay and even tooth loss. In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss today. The good news is that Chicago gum disease can be avoided by practicing good oral hygiene habits which include regular brushing and flossing correctly, along with regular visits to a dental professional.
In spite of the importance of maintaining good oral health, many periodontists believe that patients could be more proactive about protecting their oral health. According to a recent poll conducted by the Academy of Periodontology, 90% of periodontists agreed that flossing frequency is the area that their patients neglect the most. In addition, a majority of the periodontists polled indicated that their patients’ flossing technique could use improvement. An overwhelming 97% of the periodontitsts polled said that their female patients had much better oral hygiene than their male patients.
The two essential components to good oral hygiene practices are brushing and flossing regularly as well as the technique so the gums are not damaged. The leading causes of gum damage include hard bristled tooth brushes along with popcorn seeds and candy. Other items that can damage the gums include toothpicks, oral rinses and floss holders when not used correctly.
Periodontists agree that poor home care continues despite efforts to educate patients on good oral techniques on every visit or when necessary. Periodontists attempt to educate and motivate their patients with mirrors to show what is happening inside their mouth pointing out pocket depths and plaque as well as using x-rays, drawings and photos depicting healthy gums as opposed to unhealthy gums. Patients should not be afraid to ask questions on ways to improve their oral care techniques. Periodontists and their staff will often use visual aids to help patients understand how their oral hygiene habits affect their mouth and body. Many periodontists agree that the patients are oftentimes motivated by fear of losing their teeth as well as improving the look of their smile, avoiding bad breath and to improve functional problems such as chewing. Patients can come up with any excuse imaginable as to why they continue to practice poor oral hygiene habits and not brushing and flossing regularly.
The periodontist can be your greatest ally in avoiding the potential destruction of Chicago gum disease. Considering the fact that patients can lose their teeth and expose themselves to increased risk of other health complications including heart disease and diabetes, the stakes are too high to delay treatment. Dr. Michael Marcus utilizes state of the art laser technologies as opposed to a scalpel, to treat gum disease. Finally, the alternative to cut and stitch surgery is available and there is no reason to delay treatment any longer. For more information on treating gum disease with cutting edge, laser technology, contact Dr. Marcus at (312) 263-6898.
