Halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, can certainly make a great impact in your life – in a negative way.  No matter how attractive you are, nothing could make up for that foul breath you exude every time you speak. Halitosis may mean missed opportunities at work, social isolation and diminished self-esteem. Because of its negative effects in one’s personal and social life, many have turned to natural remedies to cure and prevent bad breath.
However, according to periodontists in Chicago, gum disease may be caused or aggravated by ineffective natural cures for bad breath. In actuality, many known home remedies can cause more harmful effects to your oral health. In a recent survey, members of the American Academy of Periodontology identified the most ineffective and bizarre natural remedies commonly used by their patients to cure bad breath. Surprisingly, many of those included in the list have been widely promoted as effective cures of bad breath.
It was found that excessive use of mouthwashes can make your bad breath worse.  Mouthwashes are composed of alcohol, which can cause drying of your mouth and mucus membrane. Thus, alcohol-based beverages, such as vodka martinis or whiskeys, are false natural remedies for bad breath. Your mouth must be adequately moisturized to keep the activities of anaerobic bacteria under control.
Breath mints and chewing gums may mask your bad breath for a short period of time but they can increase your risk for plaque buildup and cavities. Mints and gums are made up sugar, which are utilized by the bad breath-causing bacteria as their energy source. Mint chew tobaccos can cause receding of the gums and increase your risk of losing the bone structure that holds your teeth together.
Many have resorted to unhealthy and unsafe practices, such as using household cleansers to brush their teeth and kerosene for rinsing. These products contain chemical substances that are hazardous to health. Some have actually gone an extra mile to cure bad breath by having their tongues pierced. Any type of jewelry in your mouth can harbor more bad breath causing-bacteria, increasing your risk for halitosis. Others have repeatedly tried intestinal cleaning methods, believing that bad breath originated from the stomach. The widespread use of infomercial items, which are not approved by the ADA, have also been reported.
The surface of your tongue and throat are inhabited by millions of anaerobic bacteria, a group of microorganisms that thrive in an oxygen-free environment.  These bacteria break down proteins found in foods, blood, mucus and damaged oral tissues. Once they break down proteins at an increased rate, hydrogen sulfur vapors are uncontrollably emitted, resulting in bad breaths. Hydrogen sulfide is the chemical compound responsible for the smell of rotten eggs.
For periodontists in Chicago, gum disease and halitosis are best treated by consulting your dentists to determine and eliminate their root causes.  Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly are the best preventive measures against bad breath.
For consultation and treatment of bad breath, visit Dr. Marcus on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com or you can reach 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.

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.

Because researches have confirmed that periodontal disease affects the other body organs, more people are making tooth brushing and flossing a priority. After learning of the possible health risks caused by periodontal disease such as heart disease, stroke and chronic kidney failure, more people have been taking precautionary measures in order to maintain oral health. Many  a periodontist Chicago have seen improvements in their patient’s routine oral care after being educated about the possible risks of periodontal disease. The positive responses from the patients are overwhelming as they learn of the different diseases linked to oral health. Patients allocate more time on brushing and flossing and they make sure that they adhere to their regular dental check-ups.
Heart disease, diabetes, and premature birth are some of the conditions that periodontal disease can trigger. According to recent studies, periodontal disease puts people at great risk for coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is the clogging of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Development of coronary artery disease is highly possible as the bacteria that causes periodontal disease enters the bloodstream. There has also been a strong connection between the use of antibiotics during periodontal procedures and endocarditis. According to studies, people with heart conditions may require antibiotics during periodontal procedures.
Diabetes is also a condition that is closely linked to periodontal disease. Individuals who have diabetes are susceptible to infection. Thus, diabetes increases the risk for periodontal disease. When these two conditions occur at the same time, the body is placed at a dangerous situation. Since periodontal disease is known to increase blood sugar in the body, diabetics will have a harder time managing their blood sugar levels.
Research also shows that pregnant women suffering from periodontal disease have a higher risk of delivering a pre-mature baby. Although experts have established the pattern between periodontal disease and pre-mature birth, there needs to be further research to determine how periodontal disease exactly complicates the pregnancy and delivery. Meanwhile, pregnant women are advised to have periodontal screenings to avoid delivery complications and to treat any existing periodontal disease.
Additionally, experts also believe that the bacteria that cause periodontal disease can travel down to the respiratory tract and trigger the development of respiratory tract infection. Further studies, however, are being conducted in order to establish a strong relationship between the two conditions.
The link between systemic diseases and periodontal disease require the communication and cooperation between dentists and medical professionals to prevent any harmful risks to the body. In order to lower the susceptibility for other diseases, people need to treat periodontal disease immediately and to practice proper oral hygiene. People need to have periodontal screenings even if there are no obvious symptoms. This way, development of periodontal disease will be prevented. If you have the following symptoms, visit your dentist or periodontist Chicago immediately for a complete evaluation and treatment:
Bleeding gums
Inflamed gums
Receding gums
Persisting bad breath
Loss of teeth
Presence of pus in the gums

Dr. Marcus is a Chicago general dentist who treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel. You can contact Dr. Marcus at (312)263-6898  or you can visit him on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com

There are many health conditions that are identified to be contagious. The common cold, upper respiratory tract infection, meningitis, and influenza, are some of the diseases known to be infectious and can be transmitted through the saliva. A study released by The American Dental Association reveals that there are substantial evidences to classify gum disease as a contagious disease. According to the study, the spread of gum disease is triggered by bacteria being passed on to others through the saliva. Highly susceptible to this bacterial infection are couples and families that have at least one family member suffering from gum disease. Periodontal disease in a family or in couples can be transmitted through kissing, sharing utensils, food and drinks, and through coughing and sneezing.
It is important for couples and families to be aware of their oral health especially if one member has periodontal disease. To avoid the spread of bacteria, family members should refrain from sharing food, glasses, and utensils to prevent the passing of saliva from any member affected with periodontal disease. Anybody who has periodontal disease is strongly advised to undergo and complete treatments with a Chicago periodontist. There should be a regular maintenance of oral health and proper cleaning techniques must be strictly enforced. Additionally, not only should the affected individuals be treated for gum disease. The whole family and partners should be screened for periodontal diseases as well. Late detection or failure to treat periodontal diseases can lead to bad breath, tooth decay and then eventually to loss of teeth.
Additional studies have also shown that gum disease can be passed on from the parents to their child through genetic makeup. Experts reveal that gum disease can also be considered as a hereditary condition just like cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure and baldness. According to studies presented by the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 3 out of 10 people are susceptible to periodontal diseases due to their genetic makeup. For people with genetic susceptibility to gum diseases, early detection, prevention and treatment is necessary to lower the risk for gum disease.
Chicago periodontist recommend that if a family member or partner is affected with gum disease, the entire family should also undergo periodontal screening to rule out transmission of gum disease and to prevent it from occurring. Individuals who have a hereditary predisposition to gum disease must also frequently have dental check-ups and must maintain regular oral care.
Dr. Marcus is a highly trained general dentist, not a Chicago periodontist who treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel. For people who are considering  a periodontist in Chicago and want an alternative to flap  gum surgery, contact Dr. Marcus at (312)263-6898 or visit him on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com

The mouth is a part of the human body that needs to be taken cared of on a daily basis. Frequent visits to the dentist are part of a comprehensive oral care but it is also important for patients to know that proper oral health care takes place in their own homes. According to an online survey conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology, periodontists observe a lack of teeth and gums maintenance by their patients albeit their regular dental visits. Periodontists who participated in the survey also took note that majority of the patients tend to forget to floss regularly or to disregard the practice of proper flossing and brushing techniques. The survey responses also indicate that a significant number of male patients are more likely than females to neglect proper oral hygiene.
Laxity of regular oral maintenance will increase the risk for periodontal diseases such as loss of teeth. To prevent Chicago gum disease, routine oral care must be complemented with proper techniques for brushing and flossing. It is also important to use oral care tools such as toothbrushes and flosses that will not hurt the gums. Toothbrushes that have hard bristles are not recommended because they can cause teeth abrasions. Periodontists suggest that their patients use soft bristles except for special considerations. Patients are also reportedly practicing improper use of mouthwashes, oftentimes serving as a replacement for the process of brushing. Improper use of toothpicks can also injure the gums and may result to further gums and teeth damage.
Since the bulk of oral care happens at home, Chicago periodontists often ask their patients how they perform oral care techniques.  This way, they can correct and educate their patients on the proper ways to care for the teeth and gums. Periodontists on Chicago are very assertive when it comes to educating their patients about the benefits of regular and proper oral maintenance. They point out the consequences of inconsistent oral care such as development of systemic diseases, unattractive appearance of the teeth and gums and malodorous breath.
The most effective way, however, to convince patients to change their habits or to go through periodontal treatments for gum disease, is by informing them the high probability of tooth loss. Loss of teeth can be a result of periodontal diseases developed due to poor oral hygiene. Patients who are informed of this consequence become eager to seek treatment for periodontal diseases. Often times, some patients go beyond the treatment of gum disease and undergo aesthetic procedures such as smile improvement, teeth whitening and teeth straightening.
Periodontists encourage their patients to never hesitate to seek for guidance and ask questions regarding proper oral care techniques. Patients need to be informed about good oral health and they need to enforce on themselves a routine oral care to avoid the many consequences that comes with neglecting regular oral maintenance such as development of Chicago gum disease.
For patients who have seen  a periodontist in Chicago to treat gum disease that do not want flap gum surgery should contact Dr. Marcus.  Dr. Marcus is a highly trained general dentist who treats by using laser, and not a scalpel, contact Dr. Marcus at (312)263-6898 or visit him on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com

A smile is a very simple facial gesture that has a lot of significance. It is used as a friendly greeting, to make others feel welcome, and to show positive reception. A smile is also an indicator of moods such as happiness, delight and excitement. For some people, however, they refuse to use the full potential of their smile not because they can’t, but because they are very insecure when it comes to showing off their teeth and gums. In a latest survey poll done among men and women, the results reveal that one in four people finds their smile to be too gummy. When asked if they knew of periodontal procedures that can correct and improve a gummy smile, only 79 out of the 307 respondents are familiar with these procedures that can be done by a periodontist Chicago.
While all sorts of cosmetic surgery are very popular these days, a lot of people are still surprised that the procedures that can enhance the smile are possible. Nevertheless, periodontists believe that it won’t be long until this type of procedure becomes widespread just like liposuctions, nose lifts and chin augmentations. According to recent data obtained by experts, there has been an increase in the number of people undergoing periodontal procedures within the last five years.
A periodontal procedure can significantly improve a person’s smile. A gummy smile is characterized by small teeth and exposure of excess gums. For people with gummy smiles, the change is done usually by crown lengthening. Crown lengthening removes excess gums by exposing additional teeth structure. In other cases, some people have the opposite of a gummy smile wherein they have long and overexposed teeth structure and receding gums. This is corrected through gum grafting, a procedure to cover overexposed teeth by using a layer of tissue that is placed on the site of gum recession in order to cover the exposed tooth root.
Procedures involving the improvement of gummy smiles primarily benefit the patients aesthetically. However, these procedures offer more than enhancing the appearance of a smile as it also provides individuals with a newfound confidence and a sociable personality. A person with an improved and wider smile will also most likely be less apprehensive and more outgoing. Additionally, seeking help from a periodontist Chicago to correct a gummy smile also maintains oral health by preventing bone loss, development of tooth decay and further gum recession.
For people in need of a periodontist on Chicago and want an alternative to scalpel gum surgery call Dr. Marcus at (312)  263-6898 or visit him on the web at http://michaelmarcusdds.com . Dr. Marcus uses laser, not a scalpel, for treatment of gum disease.

New Research Finds that Estrogen Supplements Could Affect Progression of Periodontal Disease in Pre-Menopausal Women
It is a common occurrence for pre-menopausal women to consider hormone replacement therapy to combat the symptoms of menopause, including mood swings, hot flashes and fatigue. According to a recent article published in the Journal of Periodontology, hormone replacement therapy may also benefit pre-menopausal women’s oral health. The article indicated that estrogen supplements prescribed to women within five years of menopause may actually slow the development of periodontal disease. While more research is needed to solidify the findings, researches encourage pre-menopausal women who are suffering from periodontal disease to consult with a periodontist in Chicago for more information.
Research has shown that at least 50% of Americans over the age of 55 are currently suffering from advanced stages of periodontal disease. Researchers have been exploring the role that estrogen deficiency and osteoporosis play on the speed at which oral bone loss occurs following menopause, which could contribute to the increased risk of tooth loss. Researchers analyzed women who were currently suffering from osteoporosis to investigate how estrogen supplements affected oral health. According to the study, researchers found that estrogen supplements could decrease the risk of detachment of the oral fibers that support the teeth as well as lower rates of inflammation of the gums.
For women who are currently weighing the pros and cons of estrogen supplements to treat osteoporosis, this may be another benefit for them to consider. Researchers estimate that osteoporosis affects more than 25 million women in America, oftentimes resulting in bone loss. This new study emphasizes that estrogen helps to prevent bone loss. In addition, in pre-menopausal women, estrogen has been shown to reduce symptoms of menopause including hot flashes, irritability and could actually reduce the risk of developing coronary artery disease. Researchers want to emphasize the role of tobacco on the progression of periodontal disease and point out that smoking increased the rate at which the disease progressed at a much faster rate in comparision to women who had an estrogen deficiency. This information provides yet another reason for women, especially those suffering from periodontal disease to quit smoking as soon as possible to avoid very serious health complications.
While new research emphasizes the benefits of hormone replacement therapy as a means to slow the progression of periodontal disease, women are encouraged to consult with their doctor as well as a periodontist in Chicago to find out if this treatment is optimal for their particular situation. If you are currently suffering from periodontal disease and have questions about the treatment options available, contact Dr. Michael Marcus today. Dr. Marcus is a highly recommended general dentist who treats gum disease with a laser instead of a scalpel for faster healing and less discomfort. Finally, there is an alternative to old cut and stitch surgery methods to treating gum disease. For more information on treating gum disease with state of the art laser technology, contact Dr. Marcus at (312) 263-6898.

Researchers are Investigating Gene Therapy as a Possible Means to Regenerate Tissue That Has Been Destroyed by Gum Disease
Periodontal disease can have devastating effects on oral tissue and bone structures that support the teeth. The disease can be silent at first, but in its advanced stages, gum diseases diminishes the gums and causes the teeth to separate from the gum line. Gum disease is caused when plaque is allowed to adhere to the teeth from less than optimal oral hygiene habits. The toxins produced by the plaque irritate the gums causing inflammation and the spread of bacteria. The bacteria attacks the gums and oral bone structure that holds the teeth in place. As the bone structures are weakened over time, the teeth become loose and eventually detach and fall out if left untreated. In addition to practicing positive oral hygiene habits including regular brushing and flossing, it is highly recommended that individuals seek treatment from a periodontist in Chicago at the first signs of the development of periodontal disease to avoid permanent damage to the gums, teeth and oral bone.
According to a recent article published in the Journal of Periodontology, researchers at the University of Michigan may have uncovered a way to help restore damage caused by advancing periodontal disease through gene therapy. The researchers inserted a morphogenetic gene protein into mature skin cells to stimulate bone development in an inactivated rat. By transferring the virus into mature skin cells, genetically engineered cells are then transferred into the areas of periodontal defect around the teeth to regenerate tooth structures, oral bone as well as the cementum, or protective coating surrounding the teeth.
While more research is needed in human cases to solidify the findings, the results are exciting nevertheless. This is a major breakthrough in the dentistry field and could help millions of Americans suffering from periodontal disease to reverse effects of periodontal disease in an effort to keep their teeth from falling out.
Gene therapy as a means to reverse the effects of damaged tissue and bone structures as a result of periodontal disease has been a topic of discussion amongst dental professionals for a long period of time. Currently there are no proven therapies that are known to regenerate oral bone structures that are weakened and destroyed by gum disease. This new evidence gives hope that the technology is not far away and seemingly possible in the near future.
If you have questions about treating or preventing gum disease with state of the art laser technologies, contact Dr. Michael Marcus. While Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist in Chicago, he is a highly trained dental professional who treats gum disease with a laser instead of a scalpel. If you have been looking for an alternative to old cut and stitch surgery methods to treating gum disease, you don’t have to wait any longer. Contact Dr. Michael Marcus at (312) 263-6898 today to find out how you can get the perfect smile that will last a lifetime.

There are many myths surrounding oral health that have many Americans confused about what to believe. For years periodontists have been trying to dispel rumors and educate families on positive oral health habits to save teeth and foster smiles that will last a lifetime. According to a recent report by the U.S. Surgeon General, more than half of 5 to 9 year old children have at least one cavity or filling. This number increases among 17 year olds, where approximately 78% will have suffered from a cavity by that time.

Periodontal disease affects more than 75% of adults over the age of 35 and is a serious oral bacterial infection that attacks the gums and surrounding tissues, destroying the fibers that support the periodontal bone and hold teeth in your mouth. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss today and causes many adults to seek treatment from a periodontist in Chicago.

The best protection against gum disease is being proactive by practicing positive oral hygiene habits to prevent tooth loss and other health complications that have been linked to periodontal disease including heart disease, diabetes and stroke. The American Academy of Periodontology urges Americans to educate themselves about positive oral health practices and have outlined below common misconceptions amongst patients.

Myth # 1: The Most Important Reason To Brush Regularly is To Avoid Cavities.

Brushing and flossing regularly help to reduce plaque. If plaque is not removed every 26 hours, plaque will begin to irritate the gums, eventually causing periodontal disease if left untreated.

Myth # 2: It’s Normal For Your Gums to Bleed.

Bleeding is typically a sign that something is wrong and a common symptom of gum disease.

Myth # 3: Oral Health Doesn’t Affect the Rest of My Body.

Recent research has linked gum disease to an array of other health complications including heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Gums are infected with bacteria that can enter the blood stream and travel to other organs.

Myth # 4: Bad Breath is For People Who Don’t Brush Regularly.

Brushing regularly won’t always relieve bad breath. Some oral bacterial releases sulfur compounds, which reside on the tongue and build up causing bad breath. To help eliminate bad breath, brush and floss regularly and don’t forget to brush your tongue as well.

Myth # 5: The Leading Cause of Tooth Loss Are Cavities.

Cavities combined with periodontal disease are the leading causes of tooth loss.

Myth # 6: There is no Need for Pregnant Women to Have Dental Checkups.

Recent research indicates that gum disease can affect unborn babies. An infection during pregnancy including periodontal disease may increase the risk of premature births and low birth weight.

Myth # 7: Stress Has No Effect On Oral Health.

Recent research suggests that high levels of financial stress and poor stress management skills may increase the likelihood of developing periodontal disease.

Recent studies have indicated that positive oral hygiene habits can have long lasting effects on your oral health and the overall health of your body. Considering the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, it is more important than ever to visit a periodontist in Chicago for evaluation and 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.

Modern day prescription medications have advanced our society far beyond what was imagined just a few short years ago. Progressive medicine has been able to cure and treat a great number of illnesses, ranging from numerous life threatening diseases, to making our everyday lives more comfortable with treatments for less serious ailments such as acne and headaches. Though not life threatening, severe acne can have long lasting and detrimental effects on the lives of individuals who suffer from it. Extreme acne can adversely affect your appearance as well as self confidence, frame of mind and social interactions. With the advancement of prescription drugs also comes newfound research surrounding the side effects of these medications and how these treatments can actually cause other health issues to occur. Now, more importantly than ever, doctors must work with consumers and other medical professionals to collaborate on side effects and interactions with other medications and procedures.

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology recently reported that Minocycline, a commonly prescribed antibiotic used to treat acne and rheumatoid arthritis has been shown to cause teeth and oral bone discoloration resulting in the gums appearing black and blue in color. More importantly, this discoloration has been known to be permanent with continued use of the medication and may not disappear after discontinuing prolonged use. The research indicates that patients who use Minocycline regularly are exposed to an increased risk in staining of the gums and periodontal bone, would could result in a visit to a periodontist in Chicago for treatment.

The study, conducted at the Mayo Clinic, found that 3 to 6 percent of long term users of Minocycline developed dental staining. At this point, the blackish blue staining of the gums does not appear to physically damage the teeth, bone or gum tissue. The oral bone can also become discolored and show through the gum tissue, causing a harsh effect on an individual’s smile and appearance.

Acne and periodontal disease are both bacterial infections that can drastically affect an individual’s smile and self confidence. Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria causing the walls of the hair follicles to become inflamed and break. This causes pimples to form on the face and body and could result in severe facial scarring. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammation and bacterial infection in the gums and surrounding tissue and is the leading cause of adult tooth loss today.

This research implicating the correlation between the prescription acne treatment Minocycline and its drastic result in discoloration of the gums, emphasizes the importance of medical and dental professionals working together for the benefit of their patients. Prescription drugs oftentimes have side effects that affect oral health resulting in a visit to a periodontist in Chicago for treatment.

With today’s technology, it’s too easy to treat gum disease and no reason to let it ruin your smile. If you have questions regarding symptoms or treatment of gum disease with a laser, rather than a scalpel, contact Dr. Michael Marcus at (312) 263-6898 today for more information.