You wake early every day, ready to tackle the day’s tasks. When it comes to tight deadlines and money pinching tactics you sure know your stuff. What you may not know is that this way of living leads to higher stress levels, and that could lead to a visit with the Chicago Periodontist.

According to a study published in the February 2009 Journal of Periodontology confirmed that stress may in fact interfere with oral hygiene with 56% of participants self-reporting personally neglecting their oral hygiene when experiencing prolonged stress levels, leaving their gums vulnerable to gum disease.

To top that the President of the American Academy of Periodontology says a stressful lifestyle makes it easy for people to abuse harmful habits such as chain smoking and drinking excessive alcohol, both being proven habits to increase risk for gum disease.

Additionally the study reported that chronic stress was associated with higher and more prolonged levels of cortisol. Combine this data with previous research that showed increased amounts of cortisol in the bloodstream can lead to a more destructive form of periodontal disease and it becomes easy to understand how excessive stress levels can lead you down a rapid path towards advanced gum disease.

Reducing Stress Can Improve the Health of Your Gums and Save You Money

If excessive stress is taunting your life what can you do to reduce it? To start consider finding a healthy way to relieve your stress such as; regular exercise, eating a well balanced diet, and getting adequate sleep.

What are you waiting for? Lifestyle changes as simple as these not only reduce your risk for gum disease but they can dramatically improve your overall health as well and lower your medical expenses. So get started right away by developing a plan tailored just for you.

If you are experiencing high levels of stress consider contacting a Long Island Periodontist right away. If you’re a little uneasy about treatment options you’ll be pleased to know that Dr. Michael Marcus is skilled in early detection and treatment of periodontal disease and offers patients an alternative to traditional surgery.

Gum disease is a common infection of the soft tissue in the mouth taunting millions of Americans each year. As they struggle through the treatments for Chicago gum disease many begin to slack off or get off track. According to a recent stud this attitude could impact more than your smile!

According to a new study published in the Journal of Periodontology there may be a direct link between gum disease and prediabetes and with 54 million people in the United States showing signs of prediabetes the link between gum disease and prediabetes is a growing concern.

Prediabetes is a condition where your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Out of the 54 million people with prediabetes the American Diabetes Association estimates that a significant number of them will develop Type 2 diabetes within 10 years.

Tackling Gum Disease and Prediabetes Together

Researchers found having periodontal disease can alter your metabolic conditions, which in turn leads to prediabetes and the progression to Type 2 diabetes. So the treatment options you choose go hand in hand with correcting gum disease and prevention of prediabetes, making the job have higher stakes.

Don’t let gum disease take its toll on your health. Step up and take measures to protect yourself today. If you notice any signs of gum disease including, red or swollen gums, bleeding while you brush or persistent bad breath contact a Periodontist right away. Early treatment could be the difference in your test results.

Patients who are looking for a Periodontist to help monitor and teat the progression of Chicago gum disease should contact Dr. Marcus. He can treat gum disease with a laser rather than a scalpel.

Gum disease attacks millions of Americans each year, leaving them wishing they had taken appropriate steps to avoid the Periodontist Long Island. Now, thanks to a recent study Americans can have the upper hand when it comes to gum disease.

1,775 patients, who had 3,694 teeth extracted, were evaluated in an effort to determine commonalities between each patient experiencing tooth loss. What they found was that more teeth per patient were lost as a result of gum disease than any other cause with periodontal disease accounting for the majority of extracted teeth in patients over 35.

This data was used to compile six risk factors that increase your chances for developing gum disease. These factors include:

1. Age
2. Gender
3. Smoking
4. Lack of professional maintenance
5. Inadequate oral
6. Health factors

Know what factors increase your risks can empower you to stay ahead of your oral health. Regular brushing and flossing may be your most powerful tool in prevention but won’t do the job alone. Keeping your regular dental appointments and adding in a regular periodontal exam will help keep you in the lead of harmful bacteria that causes gum disease.

Prevention is always easier than treatment. Educate yourself on how to best prevent gum disease and then take action immediately. But don’t beat yourself up if you start to notice signs of gum disease. Instead remember early intervention is critical.

If signs of gum disease develop Dr. Michael Marcus treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel. This is great news for people who have been referred to a Periodontist Chicago and are interested in an alternative to surgery.

Menopause is one of those inevitable that enter the lives of women worldwide. With it come hot flashes, mood swings, osteoporosis, and even gum disease. For some woman working closely with a Periodontist in Chicago can improve the health of their gums while going through menopause.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology estrogen deficiency and osteoporosis speed the process of bone loss following menopause, which may lead to tooth loss, making it important for women entering menopause to take a few extra measures in maintaining a healthy smile.

What researchers found was women taking estrogen supplementation might reduce inflammation of the gums and frequency of attachment loss in women showing signs of osteoporosis, a common ingredient of menopause, to help protect that natural smile. Estrogen is a common supplement provided to women with menopause to help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, alleviate common menopause symptoms and reduce the risk for coronary artery disease.

In addition to estrogen supplements women should be sure to keep all regular dental check-ups throughout the year. It is also a good idea to receive regular periodontal evaluations for early detection and treatment if the need should arise. On a daily basis monitor the health of your mouth for any signs of gum disease including:

• Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Receded gums

If signs of gum disease develop and you are looking for a Periodontist in Chicago contact Dr. Marcus. He can treat gum disease with a laser rather than a scalpel.

Gum disease comes with many different symptoms, including potential tooth loss and often leaves sufferers concerned about the long-term health of their teeth. To the hope of many a recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology showed improved prognosis when it comes to keeping your teeth following periodontal surgery compared to other treatment methods.

The study evaluated the outcome of three different treatment options for patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease including surgical treatment, non-surgical treatment or no treatment at all, where forty-eight percent of the teeth receiving the surgical treatment showed improved prognosis compared to only 12% for either of the other two options. Additionally the study revealed that 35% of the teeth that did not receive any treatment actually worsened in prognosis.

Study author Stephen Harrel points out that the results of this study are very important for patients who want to keep their teeth for a lifetime, sharing that it’s essential for patients to understand that optimal results are not always possible with non-surgical methods used, and with no treatment.

When it comes to keeping your smile beautiful be as informed as possible. To help keep your teeth at their best for a lifetime consider practicing a few simple oral hygiene routines including;

• Brush daily using a medium or soft bristled brush,
• Floss using proper technique ensuring to clean every surface of your teeth and gum line,
• Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water,
• Keep scheduled cleanings every 6 months with your dentist,
• Have regular periodontal exams

As an extra measure observe your mouth daily for early warning signs of gum disease that may include: red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, loose or missing teeth. If you notice any unusual changes and need to see a Periodontist Chicago, contact Dr. Michael Marcus. He can effectively treat gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel.

Daily monitoring of your gums while brushing and flossing is repeatedly proven to be a wise choice. It allows you to stay on top of things like periodontal disease or similar infections. Daily monitoring will also ensure you notice unusual lumps or blisters that may require treatment by a Periodontist in Chicago, giving you a constant upper hand in oral health.

According to a case recently featured in the Journal of Periodontology a 48-yr old man found a lump on his gums and decided to have a periodontal exam done with the University’s dental school where they discovered this lump was more than your typical acidic blister.

After a biopsy the growth was identified as squamous cell carcinoma and was surgically removed by removing the gum tissue and part of the jawbone. For this gentleman finding the oral cancer was a blessing since it revealed a rare systemic disease that could have later threatened his life unexpectedly after failing to heal correctly. The disease they found was a systemic illness known as a protein S deficiency.

Regular periodontal exams are the best way to ensure the health of your gums and to screen for possible oral cancers. In addition to regular periodontal exams monitor your gums daily for signs of early gum disease including; red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, a change in how your teeth (or dentures) fit in your mouth, bleeding gums and loose or missing teeth.

During your exam your Periodontist will be able to identify early signs of gum disease, oral infections and even oral cancers. In addition to the expected oral symptoms a regular periodontal exam can help identify and diagnose systemic illnesses early enough to have positive responses to treatment.

If you’ve been referred to a Periodontist in Chicago contact Dr. Michael Marcus. He is trained in the early detection, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease using a laser treatment, making your experience as comfortable as possible. Give Dr. Marcus a call today.

Cardiovascular health is frequently at the top of many American’s priorities when it comes to their lifestyle. It is usually the motivating factor for those early morning jogs, healthy meals and frequent check-ups at the doctor. But how many American’s consider Chicago gum disease as a risk factor for cardiovascular health?

According to two separate studies published in the Journal of Periodontology there is substantiated evidence to support the claim. The first study evaluated 150 individuals with periodontal disease. The second study looked at the DNA of the bacteria residing in the plaque and found the exact same DNA in the individuals’ heart arteries.

As far-fetched as this may seem it’s rather simple to explain. Each pocket along the gum line contains tiny pores. Prior to the gums becoming inflamed the pores are too tiny for the bacteria to fit through. However, as the bacterial infection progresses chronic inflammation develops in the gums, enlarging the size of the pores. Once large enough the bacteria can pass through the pores and enter the blood stream, traveling all over the body.

In addition to depositing bacterium in various organs along the way your tainted blood enters the heart dropping off more passengers within the valves making oral care a top priority in your cardiovascular routine.

To improve your oral health and reduce the risk of heart disease monitor your mouth daily for signs of periodontal disease including:

• Red or swollen gums
• Frequent bleeding while brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Changes in the way your teeth fit in your mouth
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Loose or missing teeth

If signs of gum disease develop contact a local Periodontist right away. It’s important to have Chicago gum disease treated by a skilled professional as soon as possible. If you’re interested in alternative treatments to traditional surgery contact Dr. Michael Marcus. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel.

It’s time for your summer vacation and the whole family is packed and ready to go. As you count through your packing list the kids echo of “check” in the background. Soon you’re satisfied that everything is in place and it’s time to go! Yet there may be one item you didn’t consider when preparing for your trip, Chicago gum disease.

Gum disease is a chronic inflammation of the soft tissue in your mouth and can progress at a rapid speed. In fact in as little as two weeks of improper oral care the bacteria levels in your mouth can double, increasing your risk for gum disease.

When you’re out enjoying the summer fun brushing and flossing often falls to the wayside of life. However this decision could cost you a lot! To help protect your oral health consider these 9 tips for healthy gums all summer long:

1. Store your toothbrushes in travel containers that have holes for proper air circulation. This allows the brush to thoroughly dry and discourage the growth of bacteria
2. Store toothbrushes separately to prevent the spread of bacteria
3. Thoroughly clean and disinfect the travel containers before and after your trip
4. Regularly disinfect your toothbrush while on vacation or at home by washing it in the dishwasher, storing in the fridge or place it in a cup of mouthwash
5. When traveling abroad brush with bottled water and keep your toothbrush 2-5 feet from the sink and toilet to avoid water contamination
6. Always pack extra oral care supplies in case you can’t purchase them
7. If you don’t have toothpaste, brush with water to remove food and bacteria
8. If you forget your toothbrush and are unable to purchase a new one floss and rinse with mouthwash
9. Don’t share a toothbrush because oral bacteria can be passed from one family member to another

Caring for your gums should always be a top priority. If you notice that Chicago gum disease has followed you on your vacation give Dr. Michael Marcus a call today. He treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, giving you a comfortable visit every time.

Have you noticed a change in your gums and how the sit around your teeth? If so you could be looking at the start of a receded gum line. If your gums are receding it’s crucial that you see a Periodontist Chicago as early as possible to discuss possible treatment options. However if you’re a smoker be prepared to have to give up those cigarettes!

It’s no surprise to smokers for a dentist to recommend avoiding smoking right after treatment. But to encourage a complete cessation may come as a surprise to many. But when it comes to corrective periodontal treatment plans continued smoking could result in a complete repeat of your original complaint, receded gums.

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology demonstrated significant evidence that smokers who continue smoking after receiving corrective procedures were 50% more likely to have their gums recede again, possibly even back to where they started.

It’s not the receded gums themselves that are impacted by the smoking. Rather it comes from the body’s impaired ability to fully and efficiently recover from the surgery involved with correcting the exposed tooth root, a procedure that is critical for the long-term health of the tooth.

When the gums have pulled away from the tooth more of the root is exposed leaving the tooth vulnerable to disease and decay. Whether the recession is caused by bacteria or some other cause the Periodontist begins by treating the source of the recession. This is then followed by a procedure to recover the tooth root to help ensure the health of that tooth.

Receded gums are nothing to glance at. In fact they could be the difference between losing your teeth and keeping your beautiful smile. If you’ve noticed a change in your gums and need a Periodontist Chicago who can treat gum disease with a laser contact Dr. Michael Marcus and schedule your appointment today.

Gum disease may be one of the easiest diseases to prevent, yet so many Americans find themselves battling the disease every day. One major factor for frequent trips to the Periodontist in Chicago is a stubborn view that flossing isn’t that important. On the contrary a recent study conducted at the New York University found that flossing plays a significant role in the prevention of gum disease.

The study observed 51 sets of twins between the ages of 12 to 21 where each twin was given a randomly assigned oral care regimen to carry out over the course of two weeks. One twin brushed with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste while the other brushed with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste as well as flossed.

When the two week study was complete samples were taken from each twin to determine the level of bacteria associated with gum disease in each participant. Interestingly enough the study showed that not only does flossing dramatically reduce the level of bacteria it also showed how quickly bacteria build-ups to begin with. All in all, flossing is crucial to your oral health.

The reason is explained in the understanding of how gum disease develops. It begins with the build-up of plaque around the tooth surface. As the plaque builds the gums begin to recede from the tooth, forming pockets. These pockets become ideal habitats for bacteria growth. The bacteria infection soon leads to chronic inflammation of the soft tissue, or gum disease.

To improve your chances of preventing gum disease start at the source, prevent plaque build-up by flossing every day. But brushing and flossing alone may not be enough. You need to ensure your technique is right, removing plaque from every surface of the tooth. Additionally it’s important to see your dentist regularly for a detailed cleaning.

It’s your mouth; shouldn’t you do everything you can to keep it healthy? As part of your daily routine monitors your mouth for any unusual changes including red or swollen gums, bleeding when you brush and loose or missing teeth since these could be early warning signs of gum disease.

If signs of gum disease develop contact a local Periodontist as soon as possible. For people who need a Periodontist in Chicago and want an alternative to gum surgery Dr. Michael Marcus treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel. Give him a call and schedule your appointment today.