The future seems brighter and hopeful for millions of people who have lost their healthy smiles because of chronic and severe gum diseases. Periodontist on Chicago shares that through gene therapy, the lost periodontal support structures resulting from gum disease may be reconstructed.  This study is initially performed by the researchers at the University of Michigan. They concluded in their latest study that gene transfers of bone morphogenetic proteins or BMPs is a potential solution to defects in periodontal structures.
In advanced cases of periodontal diseases, the alveolar bone, ligament and cementum, the structures that support the teeth are severely damaged, which subsequently result in receding of the gums and tooth loss. Periodontal diseases are mainly caused by the buildup of dental plaques, the colorless and sticky films that accumulate on your teeth. Plaques are composed of food debris and bacteria that are easily removed by regular brushing and flossing. However, if they are not removed, the gum disease-causing bacteria release acids that demineralize the tooth surfaces causing dental caries and gum irritation. As a response to these toxins and acids, your body begins to secrete chemical substances that that destroy the integrity of the supporting structures of the teeth. As the disease advances, the teeth loosen leading to the unavoidable – tooth loss.
The researchers transplanted the genetically-engineered skin cells with bone morphogenetic protein or BMP into large areas of periodontal damage surrounding the teeth.  BMP has the ability to stimulate your cells to make new bone tissues, cartilages and cementum, the bonelike layer that covers the roots. The results of the study are promising. It was observed that the jawbone, periodontal ligament and cementum have significantly regenerated.
This is definitely good news for people who have suffered the negative consequences of severe gum diseases, which may include social isolation and diminished self-esteem. For the periodontal community, the findings of this research are a major feat. Gene therapy has long been considered a viable option for severe gum disease. Certainly, the answer to the detrimental effects of periodontal diseases may be obtained in the next few years.
Although gene therapy is a promising solution to the increasing number of individuals with gum disease, oral preventive measures and adherence to good oral hygiene is the best cure to periodontal diseases. Periodontist on Chicago recommends regular brushing and flossing of the teeth and frequent visits to your dentist. Well-balanced meals and adequate intake of calcium and vitamin C are a sure way to improve your oral health.
To prevent gum disease and its harmful consequences, visit Dr. Marcus, a highly trained general dentist, on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com  or you can contact him at (321)263-6898. Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist on Chicago but he can help in keeping your gums disease-free using a laser, and not a scalpel.

Periodontist on Chicago, along with the entire periodontal community, strongly recommends daily flossing for healthier teeth and gums.  Though nearly all Americans brush their teeth, the American Dental Association estimated that only 12% of Americans floss their teeth on a daily basis. According to research, in spite of the widespread beneficial effects of dental flossing, almost half of the general population does not floss their teeth.
The American Academy of Periodontology stated that including flossing in your oral care can significantly prevent the buildup of the bacteria – containing dental plaques that cause gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss. Once the bacteria gain access to blood circulation, the risk for the development of systemic diseases increases.
To assess the effects of dental flossing, 51 sets of twins between 12 and 21 years were included in a two – week treatment regimen. One twin was asked to brush his/her teeth using a manual toothbrush, whereas the other twin was required to floss the teeth, in addition to brushing. Twins have similar genetic make ups and are more likely exposed to similar environments with the same dietary habits and lifestyle. The researchers thought that this is an accurate way to determine the valuable effects of flossing in maintaining oral health.
The findings of the study indicated that the twins from the group that did not floss have overabundance of periodontal bacteria compared to the group that brushed and flossed their teeth. From these results, the integral role of regular flossing in maintaining oral health is established.
Flossing, if done inaccurately, can result in more damage than benefits. Improper flossing can result in gum or teeth trauma, subsequently, increasing your chances of gum disease. To maximize the beneficial effects of flossing, you can utilize the following healthy tips:
1.  Determine the best type of floss. There are many types of dental floss that you can avail of but choosing the one that meets the needs of your teeth and situation is one of the most important steps that you have to take. It is recommended to choose a dental floss that contains fluoride.
2. Before brushing, measure an arms length of floss, around 18 inches. Start by winding most of the floss around your pointer finger and thumb. Leave one to two inches of floss to work with.
3.  In a sawing motion, gently floss in between your teeth. Ensure that you do not snap the floss as this can result in gum damage.
4.  Position the floss around the base of each tooth so that it embraces it in a C shape. As you floss up and down the tooth’s surface, ensure that your floss reaches the area below the gum line.
5.  Floss all the upper and lower teeth. It is suggested to begin with the upper molars the left side and ending at the left lower molars.
6.  Use clean areas of floss as you move from one tooth to another.
7.  After flossing, brush your teeth and rinse with water.

Periodontist on Chicago agrees that regular flossing can make a lot of difference in your oral health. Thus, aside from brushing, you must learn the correct techniques in dental flossing.
To maintain healthy gums and teeth, visit Dr. Marcus on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com or you can contact him at (321)263-6898. Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago but highly qualified general dentist that treats gum diseases with a laser, and not a scalpel.

Adequate Daily Intake Vitamin C Is An Effective Preventive Measure Against Gum Disease.
It has long been known that healthier smiles are not only achieved through proper oral hygiene. What you eat can also make a lot of difference in your oral health. Periodontist Chicago reveals that consuming more than 60 mg of vitamin C a day, the recommended daily allowance for vitamin C, is an effective preventive measure against periodontal diseases.
Researchers conducted a study on 12,419 adults ages 20 to 90 years to determine the valuable effect of vitamin C on dental and gum health. It was found that consumption of less than 60 mg of vitamin C a day is strongly associated to the development of gum disease. According to the results of the study, individuals who take less than the RDA for vitamin C is 1.5 more likely to have severe inflammation of the gums compared to individuals who consumed more than 180 mg of vitamin C daily.
The study also found that tobacco smokers are more vulnerable to periodontal disease. Aside from the harmful and toxic effects of chemicals in tobacco smoke on the teeth and gums, smoking can greatly reduce the body’s vitamin C level, which further increases the smokers’ chances of developing gum inflammation.  Cigarette smoke contains a lot of detrimental oxidants or free radicals that can severely damage the cells, most especially the brain cells, and cause alterations in their normal processes.  The body uses up a lot of vitamin C, a natural antioxidant, to scavenge or clear up the increased free radicals found in smokers.
Smokers who consume less than 60 mg of vitamin C are doubly susceptible to periodontal diseases. It is recommended female smokers should consume more than 95 mg of vitamin C daily. Male smokers should take in 110 mg of vitamin C a day. Individuals who are exposed to second hand smoke are also advised to increase their intake of vitamin C. Oranges, broccoli, kiwifruits, cantaloupes, strawberries, kale, brussels sprouts and papayas are good sources of vitamin C.
Vitamin C is essential in the synthesis of collagen, the chief protein in connective tissues. Thus, vitamin C deficiency can result in spongy gums, gum bleeding and tooth loss.
Periodontist Chicago recommends good nutrition with adequate intake of the much needed vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and calcium, for healthier gums and teeth. It is important to constantly adhere to good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and thoroughly.  It is also advised to make regular appointments with your dentist to help you keep your healthy smile for a lifetime.
For optimum oral health, you can visit Dr. Marcus on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com or you can reach him at (321)263-6898. Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago but a highly qualified general dentist who treats gum diseases with a laser, and not a scalpel.

Recent Research Reveals Lactating Mothers Need More Calcium To Prevent Gum Diseases.
Mothers who have chosen to breastfeed their babies are much aware that during the entire breastfeeding period, they need to increase their intake of calories by 500 more to support the production of milk. According to periodontists in Chicago, gum disease is likely to occur in breastfeeding mothers. Recent research reveals that what most breastfeeding mothers do not know is that they also need to ensure their adequate intake of calcium in their diets to prevent the occurrence of gum diseases, which can subsequently result in loosening of the teeth.
The study conducted by Kanako Shoji and colleagues revealed that lactating rodents induced with low calcium intake are more vulnerable to develop inflammation of gum tissues. Though the research was conducted on animals, the results demonstrated that a diet high in calcium is a must in lactating mothers to preserve the alveolar bone, the bone structures supporting the teeth.
During breastfeeding, obstetricians recommend nursing mothers to add up 500 extra calories in their diets. This is mainly because, to produce sufficient amounts of milk, the body requires around 800 calories more. In connection, in order for breastfeeding mothers to produce around 25 to 35 ounces of calcium-rich breast milk each day, they need approximately a daily intake of 1200 mg of calcium from various food sources.
The daily transfer of calcium through the breast milk from mother to child is estimated to be around 250 to 300 mg. After three months of lactating, breastfeeding mothers are believed to have lost 25 to 30 grams of calcium, which is approximately 3% of the body’s stored calcium. If the mother’s calcium stores are depleting or her diet is low in calcium, the body will mobilize the calcium stores out of the bones and teeth and into the bloodstream. Calcium is necessary to continue the most important physiological processes in the body, such as the firing of neurons and the normal beating of the heart, and so, the body is in constant need of the mineral.
Once the calcium stores are severely depleted, the mother is at increased risk for bone loss, which includes the alveolar bone that supports the teeth. The study of Shoji and colleagues has also suggested that insufficient calcium intake causes inflammation of the periodontal tissues and disruption of the gingival tissue. Without a doubt, deficiency in calcium by lactation can severely compromise a woman’s overall oral health.
For periodontists in Chicago, gum disease is avoided and oral health is greatly improved with increased intake of foods rich in calcium during breastfeeding. Consuming milk and dairy, spinach, broccoli, figs, nuts, beans and tofu regularly and in adequate amounts, is recommended to protect the gums from inflammation and various diseases. Good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing of teeth, are essential to fight periodontal diseases. A regular visit to your dentist is encouraged to maintain good oral health.
Individuals who have seen or been told to see  a periodontist in Chicago but who want an alternative to cut and stitch gum surgery, can contact Dr. Marcus at (312)263-6898 or visit him at http://michaelmarcusdds.com  . Dr. Marcus is a highly trained general dentist who  does not use a scalpel, but  a laser, to treat gum diseases.

Being in tune with fads and trends may do you more harm than good. This is especially true in oral piercings. In the past years, tongue, lip and cheek piercings have become a popular trend among the younger population. Though these piercings are thought to be fashion statements or forms self-expression, they can greatly increase your risk for long-term health conditions. Chicago periodontist reveals that oral piercings can cause localized gingival recessions, which can severely compromise and add stress your overall oral health.
Gingival recession, or receding gums, is an oral condition where the gum tissues surrounding the teeth are progressively lost. Gum shrinkage exposes the roots of the teeth, predisposing the loss of cementum, the roots’ surface layer and the development of sensitive teeth.  Gum receding can also cause the loss of attachment between the gums and the teeth, which increases the risk of tooth loss. Gingival recession is manifested by increased sensitivity of the teeth to hot and cold foods and beverages. Sweet, sour and spicy foods can also initiate sharp oral pains. Because of gum shrinkage, the teeth appear longer than normal. Wider spaces between the teeth are also commonly observed.
How do tongue and mouth piercings bring about gingival recession? Gum receding are caused by various factors, such as periodontal diseases, aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, teeth grinding and mouth trauma. Oral piercing is a form of mouth trauma. Piercings in the tongue, lip or cheek can directly rub against the gum tissue. Repeated stress and direct trauma to the gum area result in progressive receding of the gum tissues.
Aside from gingival recession, there are more negative consequences that result from oral piercings. Swelling, pain, speech difficulties, fractured teeth and metal hypersensitivity have been reported. Additionally, piercings are a good environment for bacterial growth, increasing your risk for periodontal diseases and bad breath.
The periodontal and medical communities remind individuals to consult their dentists or physicians before obtaining oral piercings. You may be required to undergo physical and laboratory examinations to determine if oral piercing is safe for you. Certain medical conditions, such as mitral valve prolapse, are contraindicated in oral piercings. It is also advised to seriously think about the pros and cons of oral piercings before getting one. Are you willing to sacrifice your health for fashion or self-expression?
If you had your tongue or lip pierced, Chicago periodontist reminds regular and meticulous oral care, most especially during the initial stages of healing. Brush your teeth, including the jewelry, regularly and thoroughly. Use a medical-grade oral rinse after meals during the first three to six weeks. Most importantly, consult your dentist regularly to ensure optimum oral health.
If you are considering about obtaining an oral piercing, you should first make an appointment you’re your dentist. You can visit Dr. Marcus on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com or you can reach him at (312)263-6898 to learn more about the effects and the appropriate care of oral piercings.  Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago but a highly trained general dentist who treats gum diseases with a laser, and not a scalpel.

Anabolic steroid abuse has been commonly associated to a wide range of undesirable effects. Men who abuse steroids have been found with increased incidence of acne and enlarged breasts. Prolonged steroid use can result in the development of more serious adverse effects, such as malignancy of the liver and heart attacks. Recently, research reveals that anabolic steroid abuse can severely compromise one’s oral health. According to periodontists in Chicago, gum disease associated to gingival or gum enlargement is frequently seen in individuals who use steroids for prolonged periods of time.
Researchers at the Cukorova University in Turkey conducted a study consisting of athletes ages 17 to 29 who have been using anabolic steroids for more than a year. It was found that these athletes have demonstrated significant enlargement of the gums compared to a group of bodybuilders who are steroid-free. The research group concluded that anabolic steroid abuse can significantly increase your risk for gingival enlargement.
Gingival enlargement or overgrowth is an oral condition where the gum tissues enlarge and become swollen, growing over the teeth. As the gum tissues progressively increase in size, the tissues become more dense than normal. Gum inflammation begins to interrupt speech and eating. As gingival enlargement advances, oral pain, bleeding of the gums and tooth movement occur. However, its most serious effect in oral health is the probable development of severe periodontal diseases. As gum tissues begin to grow over the crown of the teeth, it becomes more difficult to brush and floss the teeth thoroughly. Dental plaques build up, and the overgrown gums harbor more gum-disease causing bacteria.  Because of these conditions, periodontal diseases develop over time.
The periodontal community is not too surprised with this finding. Anabolic steroids are chemical substances that resemble the androgens, also known as the male hormones. During periods of hormonal fluctuations, most especially in pubertal boys, changes in the periodontal and gingival tissues have been observed. Aside from their role in development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as enlargement of the penis and testes, androgens are known to accelerate muscle development, bone growth and production of the red blood cells. Thus, anabolic steroids are commonly abused by athletes who desires of gaining weight, power, strength, endurance and speed.
For periodontists in Chicago, gum disease associated to gingival enlargement must be given the right treatment and care to prevent its damaging effects. Anabolic steroid cessation is the first and most important step in stopping and preventing the unfavorable side effects of prolonged steroid use. It is important to consult your physician who can help you take the appropriate steps during the cessation program.
For treatments of dental and gum diseases, you can visit Dr. Marcus, a highly trained general dentist, on the web at http://michaelmarucsdds.com or you can reach him at (312)263-6898. Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago but he can help you keep your healthy smile through a laser, and not a scalpel.

The results of the study conducted by researchers from University of Buffalo gave another reason to shed off those excess fats away. According to the latest report, a significant association between obesity and periodontal diseases has been found, which further strengthens the belief of Chicago periodontist that the status of periodontal health, indeed, reflects one’s nutrition.
For many years, obesity has been linked to various systemic diseases, such as hypertension, heart diseases and diabetes mellitus. And so, many treatment modalities and weight control measures were suggested and created to prevent the occurrence of these complications. By maintaining one’s weight in accordance to his height, which calculated through the body mass index or BMI formula, his overall health is greatly improved. Obesity is defined as having a 30 or greater BMI.
For the past years, periodontist have been actively participating in promoting good nutrition to maintain oral health. Insufficient intake of nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin C, has been linked to various gum diseases that can add more stress to the body. Though it is logical that anything in excess is not, in any way, beneficial, how is excess weight related to diseases of the gums?
In obesity, there is an excessive accumulation of fat tissues, which stimulates more stress in the body. These tissues are actively secreting cytokines, or hormone-like proteins, that regulate inflammatory responses within the body against diseases and infections. As the fat cells continuously secrete cytokines, the risk for inflammation of the tissues surrounding and holding the teeth together increase, which could subsequently increase the risk for tooth loss. This is demonstrated in the study of researchers from Case Western University. It was found that the number of gum disease cases increases by as much as 76% among obese individuals ages 18 to 34 years.
It is widely accepted that excess fats can result in insulin resistance, which increases the risk for diabetes mellitus, a metabolic and disease where blood sugar glucose is abnormally high.  The disease is strongly associated to hypertension and heart diseases. The vulnerability to diabetes mellitus further increases with periodontal disease. According to Kenneth A. Krebs, president of the American Academy of Periodontology or AAP, gum infection in combination with obesity can significantly increase the occurrence of diabetes mellitus. This is supported by the study of Genco, where it is revealed that the number of teeth lost significantly increases with increasing blood glucose.
Because of uncontrolled blood sugar levels seen in diabetes mellitus, diabetics find it hard to fight off infections in the body. Plaque buildup results in periodontitis or inflammation of the gums, which is characterized by gum swelling, reddening and pain. The inflammation could cause receding of the gums and loosening of the teeth.
To prevent the occurrence of gum disease, it is recommended to maintain a well-balanced and healthy diet. Avoid eating foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, such as cakes, doughnuts and margarine to prevent the accumulation of excess fats. Maintain a regular exercise regimen and avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Chicago periodontist encourages individuals, obese or not, to regularly brush and floss teeth to avoid gum diseases.
A regular visit to your dentist is also recommended. For any gum disease concern, visit the website of Dr. Marcs at http://michaelmarcusdds.com  or you can call him (312)263-6898. To treat various gum diseass, Dr. Marcs uses a laser, not a scalpel.  Dr. Marcus is not a Chicago periodontist, but a highly trained general dentist who uses a laser, not a scalpel to treat gum disease.

Many efforts have been made to encourage the young and old alike to maintain good nutrition and well-balanced diets. However, many are not well aware that good nutrition, aside from providing the body adequate amounts of energy and protection from various diseases, significantly improves gum health. Periodontist on Chicago, along with other periodontists in the country, could not agree more.
According to a survey conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology or AAP, around 65% of periodontists believe that good nutrition plays a major role in an individual’s overall oral health. Though well-balanced diets are initially recommended to prevent certain gum diseases, periodontists recommend the intake of certain vitamins and minerals to promote healthier teeth and gums.
Periodontists recommend adequate intake of food sources rich with vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, cantaloupes, turnips, berries and potatoes. Vitamin C is necessary for the normal growth, maintenance and repair of all tissues in the body. It is needed to form collagen, the main protein of connective tissues, which include the gums.  Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that blocks off the damaging effects of free radicals, the by-products of food conversion to energy. This vitamin can also boost up the immune system to fight off any disease-causing microorganisms in the body.
It has been shown that with low vitamin C intake, individuals are vulnerable to acquire periodontitis, a bacterial infection that causes damages to the bones and tissues supporting the teeth. Gingivitis, or the inflammation of the gums and the surrounding teeth, is more likely to occur if vitamin C intake is insufficient. With severe vitamin C deficiency, scurvy, a condition where the gum bleeds, ensues. The gums are usually purple and spongy.
It is also recommended to load up on food sources with high calcium content, like milk and other dairy products. Around 99% of calcium in the body is absorbed in the bones and teeth to keep them healthy and strong. Calcium helps you regain and maintain that healthy smile by limiting bone loss around the tooth roots brought about by various gum diseases. A study revealed that women who are low in calcium increase their risk of periodontal diseases by as much as 54%.
Vitamins A and D and phosphorus are also some of the nutrients that you some consume to maintain healthier teeth and gums.
To encourage healthier gums and teeth, periodontist on Chicago recommends individuals to take vitamin C or calcium supplements if their diet lacks any of these nutrients. It is essential to limit the intake of fruit juices and beverages that are high in sugars that can make your oral cavity a good breeding ground for bacterial growth. These drinks are also highly acidic and can cause gum abrasion and tooth decay. Drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to wash away the food and to neutralize the plaques. Brush and flossing are advised right after eating sticky foods, such as raisins to keep you from losing that healthy and beautiful smile.
For consultation and treatment of gum disease, visit Dr. Marcus on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com or you can contact him at (312)263-6898. Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago, but a highly trained general dentist who  uses a  laser, not a scalpel, to treat gum diseases.

Research Reveals Increased Salivary Melatonin Can Protect Gums From Various Diseases
Melatonin has been widely accepted as a treatment of various medical conditions, most notably for sleep disorders. For many years, melatonin supplements are known to regain and maintain normal sleep patterns in individuals who suffer from sleep disruptions, which are linked to various health conditions. But in a recent research, it is revealed that melatonin supplements have something more to offer. Authors of the research suggest that melatonin contains gum protective properties, which is greatly beneficial for individuals who want to maintain good oral health until they reach the old age.
Periodontist Chicago believes, along with many members of the periodontology community, that melatonin and its use in periodontal health is something worth for further investigation and study. At present, researchers are only starting to discover the many valuable effects of melatonin. Its favorable effects in oral health are not far from being possible.
Melatonin is believed to prevent periodontal diseases by encouraging bone formation and by strengthening the immune system to effectively fight off any gum disease-causing microorganisms. It is thought that melatonin maintains the integrity of the alveolar bones, the structures that surround and support the teeth, by inhibiting the activities of the osteoclasts. Osteoclasts are bone cells that break down the bone. Increased osteoclastic activity is considered as the major cause of osteoporosis in women after menopause.  Because of its effects on the bones and immune system, melatonin could prevent or reduce the occurrence of tooth loss, most especially during an advanced age.
Dr. Galindo, a dentist from the University of Granada, Spain, reveals that individuals with higher salivary melatonin obtained lower community periodontal index or CPI. CPI score is used to evaluate one’s periodontal status. The lower the CPI score, the better is the gum health status. Additionally, it was observed that the older population is found with lower salivary melatonin and higher CPI scores compared to a younger group. This is possibly the reason why the elderly are more vulnerable to gum diseases and tooth loss.
Melatonin, a hormone, is secreted by the pineal gland. Aside from its ability to improve sleep disorders, it also contains some antioxidant effects that protect the body from systemic inflammatory responses and oxidative damages caused by free radicals. Free radicals are normal by products metabolism, where the body obtains the much needed energy from various food sources. It is also believed that melatonin contains some anti-aging properties.
Periodontist Chicago suggests that, although melatonin can protect the gums from various diseases, there is no better way to maintain good oral health by consistently brushing and flossing your teeth. It is also recommended to maintain a well-balanced diet, which contains foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin C. Individuals who want to keep their healthy smiles should visit their dentists regularly to check on the status of their oral health.
Dr. Marcus is a general dentist, not a Chicago periodontist.  He  helps individuals regain and maintain their healthy and beautiful smiles. You can contact him at (312)263-6898 or you can visit http://michaelmarcudsdds.com. Dr. Marcus uses a laser, not a scalpel, to treat gum disease in Chicago.

Preventing Gum Diseases Adds Years To Life
In the last several years, individuals are more concerned about their longevity and their youth. Through the latest advances and discoveries in science and medicine, many have turned to surgeries, diet regimens, complementary and alternative medical treatments and new dietary supplements to add up years in life and to defy the natural course of aging. Gym memberships have increased and more individuals are careful with their everyday routine to counterbalance the many stresses obtained from work and from home.
According to Chicago periodontists, one of the least expensive and most effective means in achieving longevity and maintaining youth is by keeping your teeth and gums healthy and strong. It is probably a big surprise that brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, the simple and old advises of our mothers, can create such beneficial effects.
Dr. Michael Roizen, an internist and anesthesiologist from the University of Chicago designed the RealAge program, where individuals are given various scientifically-based tips on how to reduce aging, and subsequently, live longer. According to Dr. Roizen’s plan, the simple act of brushing and flossing the teeth can add 6.4 years to your life. It does make sense, actually. Periodontal diseases are strongly associated systemic diseases, such as heart diseases, chronic kidney disease and obesity. The bacteria in that cause gum infections can easily access the bloodstream, and subsequently, infect the rest of the tissues. Without a doubt, many medical conditions can arise from the damaging effects of these microorganisms, which place a lot of risk to one’s overall health.
To attain good oral health, it is essential to consistently maintain good oral hygiene and practices. It is important to use the right equipment and products to keep your teeth and gums disease-free. Use a soft bristled toothbrush as it can reach every corner of your tooth, and replace it every two months or once the bristles start to wear out. Gently and thoroughly brush your teeth in circular motions for two and a half minutes each time, at least twice a day. A tooth paste containing fluoride is also advised to reduce tooth decay. Learn how to brush right. Start by holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Brush each tooth and its surrounding gum tissue in back and forth motions.
Toothbrushes are not able to reach the area under the gum line and the spaces between the teeth. And so, daily flossing is recommended. Floss from the gum line to the top of each tooth, and later, floss between the teeth. Before proceeding to the other tooth, unwind the floss to an unused area. To reduce plaque buildup between the teeth, you can use antiseptic mouthwashes after brushing. An oral irrigator is recommended to remove the particles from your teeth. Avoid using toothpicks as they can injure the gums.
Consult your dentist once you see any abnormality or unusual changes in your oral cavity. Watch out for signs and symptoms of periodontal diseases, such as gum swelling, bleeding and pain. Increased sensitivity to cold or warm temperatures should also be consulted. It is recommended to see your dentist regularly, at least twice a year.
To have more detailed and healthy oral tips, consult a Chicago periodontist. Through this way, your oral health is monitored, and any gum or tooth problem is resolved before complications set in.
Dr. Marcus  is a highly treained general dentisty who treats gum by using a laser, not a scalpel. You can contact him at (312)263-6898  or through http://michaelmarcusdds.com