Periodontal Maintenance - Brooklyn, NY.

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous disease entities requiring different treatment approaches. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent most periodontal conditions.

Oral Hygiene

Dental health is an absolutely necessary condition for a long and healthy life and social success. Dental problems can negatively affect your appearance and self-confidence. More than this, clinical studies show that poor dental hygiene can cause or aggravate such medical conditions as cardiovascular diseases, chronic sore throat, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, osteoporosis, etc.

Why is oral hygiene so important? Adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases (periodontal disease) than from cavities. Three out of four adults are affected at some time in their life. The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by good tooth brushing and flossing techniques, performed daily.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a colorless film, which sticks to your teeth at the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.

Bacteria found in plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.

Periodontal diseases can be accelerated by a number of different factors. However, it is mainly caused by the bacteria found in dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar).

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing and flossing as well as regular professional examinations and cleanings. Unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop some form of periodontal disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.

Other important factors affecting the health of your gums include:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Stress
• Clenching and grinding teeth
• Medication
• Poor nutrition

It is easier to prevent or address a dental problem early in the process, rather than treat it afterwards. This is why periodic visits to your dentist are so important. Doctors Laura Klein and Avner Rubinstein will provide you with all the necessary guidance and help to maintain or to restore your dental health. We proudly serve surrounding communities of Brooklyn Heights, Downtown Brooklyn, Park Slope, Prospect Heights, Dumbo, Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Red Hook, Williamsburg, as well as the rest of Brooklyn, Downtown Manhattan, and Wall Street.