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.

Maintaining or gaining back beautiful smiles need not to be expensive and complicated at all. A periodontist on Chicago reveals that increased dietary intake of lactic acid containing dairy products can greatly reduce the occurrence of periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases involve the inflammation of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Untreated and unresolved gum diseases subsequently results in tooth loss, which is definitely something not to smile about.
The beneficial effects of dairy products on one’s health are known for so many years. Mothers constantly remind their kids to increase their intake of dairy instead of junk food to have healthier bones and teeth. But according to the research of Shimazaki and colleagues, a regular and increased intake of dairy products that contain lactic acid can reduce the development of gum diseases. Researchers found that individuals who consume 55 grams or more of dairy with lactic acid each day demonstrate decreased occurrence of gum diseases. After the results were recorded and analyzed, it was considered that the lactic acid component of these dairy products cause their beneficial effects on oral health. Thus, without a doubt, the favorable effects these products are wide-ranging, as they can also result in healthier periodontal and overall oral health.
Periodontal diseases are recently associated to various systemic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease and obesity. Usually, diseases of the gums are brought about either by destruction of the alveolar bone, the structure that supports the teeth or by increased inflammatory response of the body against the various gum-disease causing bacteria. In many conditions, a combination of these two processes is often observed.
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, prevent gum diseases by neutralizing the acids in the teeth and mouth. Increased acidity of the oral cavity, which is brought about by plaque buildup, can gradually dissolve the calcium on the teeth’s surfaces until tooth decay ensues. The plaques cause more damage as they can be good breeding grounds for gum disease-causing microorganisms. The lactic acid is also thought to contain some anti-bacterial properties that greatly reduce the development of gum infections and inflammation.
Aside from consuming lactic acid containing dairy products, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene by consistently brushing and flossing the teeth. Eating well-balanced meals with foods rich in calcium and vitamin C can help individuals fight gum diseases. A periodontist in Chicago recommends you to see your dentist right away for any oral health concern and to make regular dentist appointments to monitor your periodontal status.
Individuals who want to maintain healthy gums and teeth could contact Dr. Marcus at (312)263-6898  or at http://michaelmarcusdds.com  . To treat gum diseases, Dr. Marcus does not use a scalpel, but a laser.   Dr, Marcus is not a Chicago Periodontist, but a highly trained general dentist.

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

Gums Diseases Can Be Prevented By Increased Intake Of Lactic Acid Containing Dairy Products

Maintaining or gaining back beautiful smiles need not to be expensive and complicated at all. A periodontist on Chicago reveals that increased dietary intake of lactic acid containing dairy products can greatly reduce the occurrence of periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases involve the inflammation of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Untreated and unresolved gum diseases subsequently results in tooth loss, which is definitely something not to smile about.
The beneficial effects of dairy products on one’s health are known for so many years. Mothers constantly remind their kids to increase their intake of dairy instead of junk food to have healthier bones and teeth. But according to the research of Shimazaki and colleagues, a regular and increased intake of dairy products that contain lactic acid can reduce the development of gum diseases. Researchers found that individuals who consume 55 grams or more of dairy with lactic acid each day demonstrate decreased occurrence of gum diseases. After the results were recorded and analyzed, it was considered that the lactic acid component of these dairy products cause their beneficial effects on oral health. Thus, without a doubt, the favorable effects these products are wide-ranging, as they can also result in healthier periodontal and overall oral health.
Periodontal diseases are recently associated to various systemic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease and obesity. Usually, diseases of the gums are brought about either by destruction of the alveolar bone, the structure that supports the teeth or by increased inflammatory response of the body against the various gum-disease causing bacteria. In many conditions, a combination of these two processes is often observed.
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, prevent gum diseases by neutralizing the acids in the teeth and mouth. Increased acidity of the oral cavity, which is brought about by plaque buildup, can gradually dissolve the calcium on the teeth’s surfaces until tooth decay ensues. The plaques cause more damage as they can be good breeding grounds for gum disease-causing microorganisms. The lactic acid is also thought to contain some anti-bacterial properties that greatly reduce the development of gum infections and inflammation.
Aside from consuming lactic acid containing dairy products, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene by consistently brushing and flossing the teeth. Eating well-balanced meals with foods rich in calcium and vitamin C can help individuals fight gum diseases. A periodontist in Chicago recommends you to see your dentist right away for any oral health concern and to make regular dentist appointments to monitor your periodontal status.
Individuals who want to maintain healthy gums and teeth could contact Dr. Marcus at (312)263-6898  or at http://michaelmarcusdds.com  . To treat gum diseases, Dr. Marcus does not use a scalpel, but a laser.   Dr, Marcus is not a Chicago Periodontist, but a highly trained general dentist.

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 Study Finds that Oral Piercings Could Cause Recession of the Gums
Today’s youth finds all kinds of creative ways to express themselves and reduce stress from adolescence, utilizing everything from clothing, tattoos, hair styles and jewelry. Recently, body piercings have become increasingly popular, exposing many to individuals to the risk of complications as a result of the procedures. Individuals who choose to get oral piercings including the tongue, lip, or cheek may be exposing themselves to an increased risk of developing gum disease and forced to seek treatment from a Chicago periodontist.
According to a recent article in the Journal of Periodontology, piercing the lip or tongue has been shown to cause gingival recession or diminishment of the gum line. A recent study analyzed a young woman who experienced gingival recession surrounding her lip piercing. Periodontists were able to conclude the gum recession occurred as a result of the piercing, by observing the gums recede in the area directly surrounding the piercing, with the rescission being isolated in that area.
While the shrinking of the gum line can be unpleasant to look at, it can also expose the tooth, leaving it more susceptible to decay. In addition, oral piercings are often accompanied by swelling, increased sensitivity, could interfere with speech and lead to fractured or chipped teeth. Many patients also do not consider the increased risk of bacterial infection in the mouth as a result of oral piercings. It is more difficult to maintain proper hygiene of the piercing, which could foster bacteria and lead to an infection.
Body piercing is a popular trend that is popular with many young individuals today. While many young individuals think about the short term effects of an oral piercing, they do not consider the harmful side effects they are exposing themselves to. Rarely would an individual consult a Chicago periodontist prior to getting the piercing to learn of the risks beforehand. Obtaining oral piercings exposes the individual to unnecessary complications and an increased risk of developing gum disease as a result of poor oral hygiene. In addition, an oral piercing causes unnecessary stress on the body that could easily be avoided by forgoing the oral piercing and expressing oneself in a manner that is less detrimental to your oral health.
Your oral health is too important to delay treatment. If you are looking for an alternative to the periodontist, contact Dr. Michael Marcus for more information on treating gum disease with a laser instead of a scalpel. You should know that there is an alternative to old methods of flap gum surgery. While Dr. Marcus is not a periodontist, he is a highly trained general dentist that can treat your gum disease utilizing state of the art laser technology for less discomfort and faster healing. For more information on how you have the perfect smile you deserve, contact Dr. Michael Marcus at (312) 263-6898.