Periodontist On Long Island Knows Importance of Proper Nutrition

You’ve just come from your appointment with a Periodontist on Long Island to discuss the prevention of gum disease and find yourself wondering why your Periodontist would suggest proper nutrition to assist in your oral health. Periodontists recognize the importance of proper nutrition in the prevention of gum disease and are making an effort to educate patients as well.

According to a recent poll published on the American Academy of Periodontology’s website nearly 65% of Periodontists believe nutrition plays a major role in periodontal health. The poll received response from 135 Periodontists and 3 out of 4 disclosed they recommend increasing vitamin C to their patients. Other supplements making the top of the chart for periodontal health included multivitamins, calcium and vitamin E.

Why vitamin C and calcium? The answer lies in understanding exactly what periodontal disease is and how it progress. Gum disease is actually a bacterial infection of the soft tissue inside your mouth. This infection then leads to an inflammation of the gums surrounding your teeth. The inflammation is characterized by deep pockets around your teeth that lead to bone loss.

Infections are attacked by your body’s immune system to it makes sense to use vitamin C to boost your immune system. With the inflammation leading to bone loss it’s obvious why Periodontists will recommend calcium as a viable approach for treatment since it is proven to aid in the development of stronger bones.

When all things are considered gum disease is best fought by improving the body’s immune response and bone development. However diet alone will not fully guard against gum disease. It’s important to familiarize yourself with early warning signs of gum disease to better fight off the infection. Signs may include some or all of the following:

• Red, swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums pulling away from your teeth
• Loose or missing teeth
• A change in the way your teeth (or dentures) fit in your mouth

Early intervention is vital to successful treatment. If you notice any signs of gum disease contact a Periodontist on Long Island as soon as possible. Dr. Scharf offers an alternative to traditional treatment methods using laser therapy. He can be reached at (631) 661-6633 or by visiting him on the web at http://drscharf.com.