Call us at:  561-736-2377
650 W. Boynton Beach Blvd., Suite 1, Boynton Beach, FL 33426

Don't let gum disease jeopardize your health, your smile, or your social life!

Your gums and supporting bone are the foundation of your smile. 

The most common reason for tooth loss today is periodontal (gum) disease.  It is estimated that 80 percent of the adult population has some level of gum disease, ranging from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontal disease.

Gum disease is a silent killer of teeth (and perhaps more), as it is rarely painful.  And, it's usually hidden from sight.  However, there are signs and symptoms you may be aware of including: 

This insidious disease can wreak havoc on your social and professional life.  We decided not to gross you out with photos in this topic!  J 

Floss or DIE???

Sounds a bit silly or far-fetched, doesn't it?  However, recent medical research is revealing some startling news about gum disease.  It appears that heart attacks, strokes, premature birth, and even cancer may be more related to chronic inflammation in the body than the usual suspects.  The most common source of chronic inflammation in the human body is, you guessed it:  Gum Disease! 

(Click on the links below to learn more about these new discoveries.)

The newly suspected relationship between gum disease and heart disease and strokes is still being studied, but we expect to hear more and more about it.  It seems that healthy gums may actually maintain a healthy heart! 

Other studies have linked gum disease with low birth weight babies. 

Even more recently cancer (pancreatic, specifically) has been linked to the chronic inflammation from periodontal disease. 

Of course, more study is needed, but I believe we'll be hearing more about these relationships in years to come.

Periodontal Treatment

The easiest thing to do is to PREVENT gum disease with good home care and regular preventive care.  However, when gum disease is present, the sooner it's treated, the better.  

Non-surgical gum treatment is offered at Palm Beach Smiles.  Oftentimes a thorough cleaning of the roots of your teeth will yield remarkable improvements.  Localized antibiotic treatment (Arestin) may be used to supplement non-surgical treatment.  Following that, more frequent cleanings may be recommended:  every 3 - 4 months rather than every 6 months. 

For the most advanced cases, referral to a Periodontist (gum specialist) may be indicated. 

 

 

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