Improve your Oral Health, it will add years to your life.

When you have healthy teeth and gums, you have a more attractive smile. You ward off pain and throbbing in your mouth. You won't be as sensitive to hot and cold. Overall, you'll have a better quality of life.

Image of Tooth Anatomy The unfortunate reality is over 75% of adults show signs of gum disease. Factors that play a role in these are: too much sugar and starch in your diet, smoking, poor oral hygiene and stress (to name a few).

There are many reasons to make a general dental appointment. If it has been a while since you've been to the dentist, you should know we're committed to total honesty. You deserve to know the truth about your dental health. We recommend that all of our Miami patients begin some kind of regular hygiene routine.

Not engaging in regular and proper hygiene can have huge consequences.

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to:
• low birth weight in newborns
• heart disease and strokes
• ineffectiveness of insulin in diabetics
• osteoporosis and diabetes

Periodontal Disease – the hazardous evolution
Left ignored, the symptoms of gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can cause permanent damage to the bone and gums surrounding the roots or the teeth.

It starts with plaque spreading and growing in the gum line. This plaque creates toxins which then irritate and inflame the gums. At this point, the bacteria penetrates the blood stream – endangering organs, tissue, vessels and potentially harms the fetus. The bone and tissue that supports the teeth start to break down and lead to a multitude of complications.

Gingivitis – stage one in periodontal disease
During this stage, gingivitis develops by:
• Plaque forming on the teeth
• Gums bleeding easily – they become red and inflamed
• Calcium forms overnight with plaque hardens

Gingivitis can be reversed with good oral hygiene and appropriate treatment.

A good dental hygiene routine is essential!

You need to keep your gums in the pink. After an evaluation, Dr. Hoffman and his team of general dental professionals in Miami will describe the recommended hygiene program to best meet your needs. The goal is to avoid further periodontal problems that may necessitate surgical procedures or loss of teeth.

Simple quiz to determine the level of your gum health:

1. Do your gums bleed when brushing or flossing?
2. Do you floss regularly?
3. Do you use an irrigator (like the WaterPik)?
4. Are your gums receding? Teeth looking longer?
5. Are your gums puffy?
6. Have your gums started overgrowing your teeth?
7. Do you feel comfortable about your breath? Halitosis?
8. Do you use any mouthwashes?

If you answered yes to some of these questions, consider making an appointment with our Hygiene Department for an exam in Aventura today.

Health Implications - How Is Your Health?

Did you know your overall physical health and dental health are linked? Recent studies have shown that certain types of gum disease reflect your overall health.

Periodontal exam and treatments make sense for medically and at-risk patients. People who are medically at-risk include those with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, pregnant women, and those taking medications that affect the gums (i.e. epileptics).

If you have diabetes or take medications Dr. Hoffman will want to know about it. Some medications can affect your teeth and some can produce side affects. Dr. Hoffman can educate you and will consult with your physician if required. Routine exams include a thorough screening for any signs of oral cancer as well as blood pressure screenings.

Protect your smile – and your health

Staying healthy includes taking care of your mouth. Excellent oral care goes a long way in maintaining and preventing health related problems. Your beautiful smile is an indicator of both how you feel on the inside and out!