Tag Archives: gum disease

Breast Cancer Oral Health Link: Does Gum Disease Increase the Risk?

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on October 4, 2022

Postmenopausal Women with Gum Disease Seem to Have Higher Breast Cancer Risk

Research suggests that postmenopausal women with gum disease are more likely to develop breast cancer than postmenopausal women who don’t have gum disease. Why? Let’s discuss the breast cancer oral health link.

If a woman has a history of smoking, the risk of breast cancer may be even higher

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, can range from simple inflammation of the gums, called gingivitis, to periodontitis, when the gums pull away from the teeth leaving open spaces that become infected. The bacteria causing the infection and the body’s response to the infection can break down the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place. If periodontitis isn’t treated, the teeth may become loose and must be removed.

Gum disease can be prevented by regular tooth brushing and flossing.

Gum disease has been associated with several other diseases, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Past research has found links between gum disease and oral, esophageal, head and neck, pancreatic, and lung cancer

So … are there any links between gum disease and breast cancer?

A study has found that postmenopausal women with gum disease were more likely to develop breast cancer than postmenopausal women who didn’t have gum disease.

If the women had a history of smoking, the risk of breast cancer was even higher.

The study was published online on Dec. 21, 2015 by the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Read the abstract of “Periodontal Disease and Breast Cancer: Prospective Cohort Study of Postmenopausal Women.” The research is part of the very large Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study, commonly called the WHI. The WHI is looking for links between health, diet, lifestyle, and genetic factors and health problems, such as cancer.

In this study:

the researchers monitored 73,737 postmenopausal women in the WHI who had never been diagnosed with breast cancer.
About 26% of the women told the researchers they had gum disease.
After about 6.5 years, 2,124 women had been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Overall, the risk of breast cancer was 14% higher in women who had gum disease compared to women who didn’t have gum disease.
So, if average breast cancer risk is about 12%, a woman with gum disease had about a 13.5% risk of breast cancer.

“We thought that periodontal bacteria — either the bacteria themselves or the inflammation that’s part of having periodontal disease — has an effect on other parts of the body, including breast tissue. We know there are bacteria in breast tissue, and we know there are bacteria in mother’s milk. Women who had periodontal disease had a small increase in the risk of breast cancer overall,”
said Jo Freudenheim, Ph.D., distinguished professor of epidemiology and environmental health at the University of Buffalo and lead author of the study.

Does Smoking Have an Effect?

Because earlier studies have shown that the effects of gum disease can be more severe if a person smokes, the researchers also grouped the women by smoking history:

Among women who had quit smoking within the last 20 years, women with gum disease had a 36% higher risk of breast cancer than women who didn’t have gum disease.
Among women who had never smoked, women with gum disease had a 6% higher risk of breast cancer than women who didn’t have gum disease.
Among women who had quit smoking more than 20 years ago, women with gum disease had an 8% higher risk of breast cancer than women who didn’t have gum disease.

“There’s been an explosion of information recently that makes it clear that many different parts of the body that were thought to be sterile contain bacteria and other microbes,” Dr. Freudenheim said. “These bacteria may influence diseases that were previously thought to have no infectious component.”

Gum Disease and Breast Cancer

The researchers said there are several possible reasons for the association between gum disease and breast cancer:

Bacteria in the mouth can get into the bloodstream through tooth brushing, flossing, and chewing. Even though the bacteria are cleared out of the body quickly, the cumulative exposure to tissues can be considerable. It could be that these bacteria affect breast cancer.

Inflammation in one part of the body, such as the gums, may have an impact on other diseases.

Other Factors Increase the Risk

There may be other factors that increase the risk of both gum disease and breast cancer.

“This is a new area, so we have to be careful in how we interpret our findings,” said Dr. Freudenheim. “We can’t say, ‘if you treat periodontal disease it will reduce cancer risk.’ There are new methodologies that allow us to measure things we weren’t able to before. We are now beginning to understand how much the interaction of the microbiome affects our health both in terms of acute infections and chronic diseases.”

Decrease Your Risk for Breast Cancer

Now that you know of the breast cancer oral health link. Doing all that you can do to keep your breast cancer risk as low as it can be makes good sense.

Here are steps you can take to control several risk factors:

exercising regularly
eating a healthy diet
maintaining a healthy weight
not smoking
avoiding alcohol
taking good care of your teeth and gums

Decrease Your Risk for Gum Disease

Decreasing your risk is important because we know about the breast cancer oral health link, where gum disease increases breast cancer risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control, gum disease can be kept in check by:

Brushing and flossing your teeth every day to remove the bacteria that cause gum disease
Seeing a dentist at least once a year for a checkup, or more frequently if you have any of the warning signs of gum disease:
- red/swollen gums
- tender/bleeding gums
- loose teeth
- bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth that won’t go way
- gums that have pulled away from your teeth
- sensitive teeth

Learn more: Avoid Gum Disease: What You Need to Know

Making a Difference One Dental Exam at a Time

Now you understand why keeping your gums healthy is such an important task – the breast cancer oral health link where gum disease increases breast cancer risk! AND you know what to do to help keep you and your smile in the best possible health and avoid Gum Disease. Why almost half of Americans suffer some form of gum disease, why wait??

Regular dental exams and cleaning is wonderful preventative care. Although you may be brushing and flossing really well at home, tartar and plaque is impossible to remove with regular brushing and flossing, and can build-up over time. Dentists are able to use specific tools to remove that plaque and tartar, keeping our mouth cleaner and our chances of other complications much lower.

When almost half of Americans suffer some form of gum disease, why wait?

Now you understand why keeping your gums healthy is such an important task – they keep your teeth in place! AND you know what to do to help keep you and your smile in the best possible health and avoid Gum Disease.

At GPS Dental, we take your oral health seriously and want to help you avoid gum disease by checking your oral health and every scheduled cleaning. We are also happy to answer any gum disease questions you have. Take the time to be extra diligent in your normal oral health routine to reduce your risk for gum disease.

If you have questions or concerns about your gum health, please give us a call, Dr. Skrobanek and his experienced team at GPS Dental in San Antonio will be happy to schedule your dental appointment and help you keep your gums, teeth and mouth healthy. Please call our office at 210-633-3477 to schedule your dental appointment.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

The information in this blog has been provided by Breastcancer.org. For more information on breast cancer risk and other steps you can take to minimize your risk, visit the Breastcancer.org Lower Your Risk section.

Avoid Gum Disease: What You Need to Know

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on September 25, 2022

You may not have heard of Periodontal Disease, if you visit your dentist regularly and you haven’t – that’s probably a good sign! Poor dental hygiene can lead to problems that are more severe than the average cavity or case of bad breath. Periodontal Disease is also known as Gum Disease and almost 50% of adults have some form it.

Gum disease is most commonly the result of poor dental hygiene and is the inflammation of the tissue around the teeth, according to www.medicinenet.com. Here’s the scary part – if left untreated, it can lead to even more serious problems, ranging from tooth loss to heart disease. Knowing the signs, symptoms, and treatment for various stages of gum disease can set you on a proactive path to avoid gum disease and a disappointing trip to the dentist.

Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease

Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? If so, you can assume your gums are sick. Symptoms are key … if you are experiencing ANY gum bleeding, notice any gum pain or mouth sores, and/or pick up on a sour taste in your mouth, do not hesitate – it’s time to schedule a visit to your dentist! Remember, you can avoid gum disease and even reverse the early stages of Gum Disease, but the only way to keep Gingivitis from progressing into Periodontal Disease and other problems is dental treatment.

Someone with gum disease may have the following symptoms/signs:

White spots on the gums
Gums that are pulling away from the teeth or receding gums
Painful to chew
Sensitive teeth and gums
Loose teeth
Bright red, swollen, tender gums
Gums that bleed easily – even during normal daily cleaning
You may have a bad taste in your mouth or bad breath
Uneven bite
Ill-fitting dentures

If you are unsure if your symptoms are caused by gum disease, consult your dentist for clarification and make sure to stay on top of regular scheduled professional dental cleanings to reduce your risks.

Related Article: The Dangers of Gum Disease

Stages of Gum Disease

Early Stage: Gingivitis – this early stage of gum disease is characterized by the inflammation of the gums and is usually caused by an abundance of tartar or plaque in the mouth. Often, swollen gums bleed easily when brushing or flossing and this beginning stage of the disease is a warning sign to a more serious condition, Periodontitis.
Progressed Stage: Periodontitis – If Gingivitis progresses, plaque will extend from the gums to the bone. Once the bone gets the infection, they can form deep gum pockets and collect even more bacteria and plaque and can lead to bone loss or even tooth loss. However, there are different forms of Periodontitis and it is more serious than it may seem at first.
- Aggressive Periodontitis:
  - rapid gum recession
  - occurring during a period of growth in young people
  - due to vitamin depletion, not bacteria
- Chronic Periodontitis:
  - periods of rapid progression and then periods of remission
  - can happen on its own or in response to dental treatment

Periodontal disease starts with a sticky film of plaque bacteria that forms on your teeth, just like tooth decay (when you’re getting a cavity). If plaque is not removed, it will collect around your gum line and they’ll become inflamed and irritated. This early stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis. The good news is that you can avoid gum disease and it can be reversed easily with consistent and thorough brushing and flossing.

However, if it is not removed regularly, this plaque will harden into tartar. Your gums become increasingly red, swollen, and inflamed as tartar builds up around the gum line and they will eventually pull away from the tooth, forming a loose pocket. As more bacteria and tarter accumulate in these “pockets”, the destructive toxins begin to infect and destroy the gums, bone and ligaments that support your teeth. This advanced phase of Gum Disease is called Periodontitis, or Periodontal Disease. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, because the gums can no longer hold your teeth in place.

Tooth Loss Statistics

Here are a few staggering statistics we’d like to share with you:

Missing 1 tooth: the average person age 20-39
Missing 3+ teeth: the average 40-49-year old
Missing 8 teeth: the average 60+ person

We know what you’re thinking … I had my 4 wisdom teeth pulled!! No wonder these numbers are so high!!

Bad News: These statistics do NOT include wisdom teeth that have been removed AND this tooth loss is typically caused by gum disease. Now you understand why it’s our goal to help you AVOID Gum Disease!

Prevention Methods and Treatment

Gum disease is extremely common among adults, but the good news is that it can be easily prevented with good, daily dental care. Hygiene within your mouth is linked to your overall wellbeing, so the importance of preventing gum disease is high. You can avoid gum disease by simply brushing and flossing daily, as well as getting regular professional cleanings from your dentist are all it takes to heavily reduce your risk for gum disease.

However, if gum disease is found, usually the treatment method is simple and your dentist will usually recommend upping your normal hygiene routine at home; making sure you are following the recommended daily guidelines. If Periodontitis is found, a deeper cleaning may be needed to remove the high levels of plaque and bacteria that has infiltrated your gums and bone. This treatment is often called Scaling or Root Planing.

Related Article: Gum Disease Treatments by WebMD

Gum Disease Can Affect More Than Your Smile

Cosmetic: It’s a well-known fact that people with a healthy smile tend to look younger. However, Periodontitis affects much more than the aesthetic look of your pearly white smile and is important for more than cosmetic reasons.

Function: It’s also easy to understand that it’s easier to talk and chew when your teeth are functional and it’s less costly to keep all of your own teeth.

Overall Health: Gum disease is also a systemic disease that is related to the body’s reaction to bacteria that can have far-reaching effects on your overall health. By completely avoiding periodontal disease or treating it, you’re helping to protect your body from other systemic inflammatory conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. As well as, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and cancer.

Gum Disease and Stress: You may think about stress being a factor behind many health problems, but the truth is, stress can also have a negative effect on your oral health as well. Stress can make it harder for our bodies to fight viruses and other harmful bacteria in the body, leaving you more vulnerable to infections. This means that if you’re dealing with gum disease, your body will have a harder time dealing with it and healing.

Teeth grinding, gum disease, and bruxism can all be results from too much stress in your life. Also, if stress is causing you to grind your teeth, smoke cigarettes, or clench your jaw, then it could contribute to gum disease as well. Stress can also make us forget to brush and floss as often as needed, so remember to stay on top of your oral health and self-care routines at home.

What do Healthy Gums Look Like?

Healthy gums are pink, firm, and they do not bleed.

Avoid gum disease by keeping your gums firm, pink and healthy isn’t difficult, but it does require consistent healthy oral care habits. Your main focus is to always keep the harmful oral bacteria to a minimum!

Daily Tips & Tricks for Healthy Gums:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush thoroughly at least twice a day.
Replace toothbrushes every 3 months; frayed bristles don’t clean as well (and old toothbrushes can store bacteria).
Flossing once a day is a must.
Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Fight dry mouth by sipping water throughout the day, chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless lozenges. Dry mouth creates an environment where bacteria can thrive. Numerous medications and certain illnesses can cause dry mouth.
Schedule routine dental appointments every 6 months that include a professional cleaning.
Stop Smoking! Tobacco, of any kind, increases the risk of gum disease and makes it harder for gums to heal.
DO NOT VAPE! Vaping is not an alternative, even if you’re not using nicotine.
If you are Diabetic, you need to be diligent about keeping your diabetes under control, since high sugar levels can increase your risk for gum disease.
Opt for healthy snacks. Healthy foods can help lower the risk of gum disease. Bacteria love sugar, so as an alternative, consume water, milk, yogurts, apples, and other healthy options.

If you have children, take this opportunity to review their dental care routines and emphasize the importance of daily tooth care. A clean mouth can´t get sick!

When almost half of Americans suffer some form of gum disease, why wait?

Life Saving Preventative Dentistry Helps Diagnose Disease & Cancer Early

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on April 26, 2022

What is Life Saving Preventative Dentistry and how can it save your life? In simple terms, your dental exam can expose and help diagnose gum disease and oral cancer early. Let’s discuss.

Your Dentist is a Super Hero

You know that seeing your dentist is important and helps keep your mouth healthy and clean, but did you know that getting regular dental checkups is the most important procedure against oral cancer? Your dentist is doing a lot more than just checking up on your smile and cavities.

Dr. Skrobanek is a Super Hero. The preventative dentistry he provides can detect early signs of cancer, gum disease, and other major health problems; not to mention the little problems that can be treated. All in all, preventative dentistry could just save your life.

The Test of Time with Life Saving Preventative Dentistry

Your smile was meant to last a lifetime. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your teeth, so they can function well and last as long as they’re supposed to. Ultimately, the best thing you can do for your teeth’s durability is seeing your dentist for life saving preventative dentistry that includes regular dental exams, cleanings, and oral cancer screenings.

According to the Oral Health Foundation, “Dental appointments shouldn’t just be made when you have a problem that needs to be addressed. Prevention is always better than needing a cure and there are plenty more reasons why it’s important to maintain regular visits to your local dental practice.”

Some of these reasons include:

Prevention of plaque, tartar, decay
Helps keep gum disease away
Checking for oral cancer and other health issues
Getting advice on your specific needs/oral health goals

Preventative dentistry focuses on dental care practices, good oral health, oral hygiene education, and early detection – which is what’s happening during your routine dental exam. So, your dentist may talk with you about what steps to take to avoid cavities, tooth decay, best oral health practices, and so on.

Oral Cancer Screenings

When your dentist does an oral cancer screening, they’re looking for abnormalities in the mouth tissue. This can be lumps, pimples, patches that are rough, or teeth placement changes. This is done both visually and by feeling around the mouth. Diagnosing oral cancer in its very early stages is critical because each year, over 7,500 deaths are caused by oral cancer alone.

The screening will be painless and easy, and it could be the difference of early detection or not. If something looks like it may be oral cancer, your dentist may suggest a biopsy of some tissue. Early detection can significantly increase the chances for a full recovery and can make treatment easier as well.

Learn more from The American Dental Association about Detecting Oral Cancer Early.

Your mouth is the gateway to your entire body and its health determines your overall health. We believe that brushing and flossing daily, and regular dental exams and cleanings are key to a beautiful smile and a happy, healthy you!

Overall Checkup and The Importance of Oral Health

Oftentimes, we don’t notice some oral health problems unless they cause us pain or discomfort. Maybe we have a signs and symptoms of a problem that we never would’ve noticed until later on, when issues have progressed.

The good news is, your dentist can look for multiple signs and symptoms that show in our mouths – such as oral cancer, Crohn’s Disease, and other serious health problems. So, when you get your regular dental exam, you’re doing so much more for your overall health and wellbeing than just getting your teeth cleaned. How amazing is that?

Early diagnosis through dental exams can sometimes determine health issues such as:

Crohn’s Disease
Diabetes
Oral Cancer
Anemia
GERD
Intense stress
Osteoporosis
Dementia
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Heart Disease

As you can see, Dr. Skrobanek offers life saving preventative dentistry each time you visit his office. That’s one of the main reasons we schedule your next appointment after your dental exam and cleaning, so we can help you manage your oral health and stay healthy.

10 Easy Steps to Improve Your Smile

A healthy smile isn’t always achieved overnight, but takes a variety of methods to help create and maintain. Here are 10 easy steps you can take to help improve the appearance and health of your teeth, mouth, and gums.

Brush your teeth twice a day
Floss every day
See your Hygienist twice each year
Stop Smoking
Drink plenty of water
Buy a quality toothbrush
Limit coffee, tea, and red wine
Choose whitening products carefully
Improve other health conditions
Get dental treatment in a timely manner

It can take some time before you start to notice changes from whitening or improved oral hygiene. While these changes don’t come overnight, they are certainly worth the time and effort, both for the sake of your smile and your overall health. You should also have regular dental checkups and cleanings. Why? Read more about “Why it’s important to schedule your dental exam twice a year”.

A Healthy Smile Can BOOST Your Immune System

You may not realize that a healthy smile can boost your immune system and don’t forget about the importance of healthy gums! They may not seem like the star of the show, but they’re just as important as every other part of your mouth, and have to be taken care of to maintain a bright and healthy smile. Even if you take care of your teeth and don’t have any cavities to worry about, you’re not immune to gum disease.

To learn more about Gum Disease, enjoy our blog: BOOST Your Immune System thru Oral Care and Gum Health

GPS Dental Offers Life Saving Preventative Care

That’s why our expert team at GPS Dental strives to educate our patients on healthy habits that can do more than keep your smile bright. Life saving preventative care is one of the main reasons it’s always important to see Dr. Skrobanek every 6 months for proper checkups at GPS Dental, so your he can check for all the signs of a healthy mouth. A healthy mouth, teeth and gums has all the makings for a beautiful smile!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek is a dental implant dentist and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.

Thyroid Disease: Link Between Hashimoto’s and Gum Disease

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on April 12, 2022

Link between thyroid disease, Hashimotos, and Gum Disease

You may have heard the common phrase, “all disease starts in the gut.” A phrase that was coined over 2,000 years ago, which has been attributed to Hippocrates, the Greek founder of medicine. While that phrase is true, it’s also true that the mouth is often the window to the entire body. Meaning that if something isn’t right in your system, it’ll show signs in your mouth.

This means that your mouth is connected to more than just your teeth or even your gut – it’s connected to your thyroid, liver, kidneys, and all other parts of your body. In the past few years, the scientific community has determined the link between thyroid disease, and Hashimoto’s, with gum disease. According to Dr. Izabella Wentz, a doctor of pharmacy, “the same bacteria that contribute to gum disease or periodontitis produce an inflammatory response associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis—the underlying cause of hypothyroidism.”

Learn more from Dr. Wentz: Periodontitis, a Trigger for Hashimoto’s?

Gum Disease/Periodontitis

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, happens when your gums become inflamed from bacteria in the mouth. This can lead to:

Loose teeth
Receding gum line
Bone loss in the jaw
Tooth loss

Gum disease is common and effects up to half of Americans over the age of 30, according to the Centers for Disease Control. If you’re seeing blood when brushing or flossing your teeth, it could be the first sign of gum disease, so it’s important to stay on top of your oral health routine and to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. So, what’s the link between Hashimoto’s and gum disease? The proof is in the bacteria.

Case Study:

Please read the below clinical case report of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and its impact on the treatment of chronic periodontitis (link below):

https://www.njcponline.com/article.asp?issn=1119-3077;year=2012;volume=15;issue=1;spage=112;epage=114;aulast=Patil#:~:text=The%20strongest%20type%20of%20causal,the%20outcome%20of%20periodontal%20therapy.

Linking Bacteria to Thyroid Disease and Hashimoto’s

According to Dr. Wentz, the link is in molecular mimicry. While that may sound confusing, let’s break down the basics of it all:

The bacteria in our mouth, which is causing gum disease, is also causing inflammation in the rest of our body.
People with Hashimoto’s often have gum disease. When they experience flare-ups in their disease, they also experience flare-ups in their gums – showing a connection.

“Molecular mimicry is an autoimmune theory suggesting that bacterial cells or other proteins (such as food proteins) have a similar appearance to the cells that make up parts of the human body, or “self-antigens.”, says Dr. Mentz.

So, when bacteria are around, our body is not only attacking the bacteria, but also parts of our body that have similar proteins. Meaning our body could be attacking the bacteria in our gums, and also the proteins in our thyroid.

The relationship from the National Library of Medicine: Relationship between hypothyroidism and periodontitis: A scoping review

Gum Disease is linked to other diseases. Learn more:

Protect Your Thyroid and Your Mouth

The evidence for good dental hygiene is stronger than ever. Regular brushing and flossing are essential for not only good oral health, but good overall health. The thyroid can have huge impacts on all aspects of your body, and your mouth could very well be impacted through gum disease. If you’re concerned about signs of thyroid or Hashimoto’s, speak with your doctor about testing your thyroid.

GPS Dental Offers Help

Now that you understand a little more about the link between Hashimoto’s and Gum Disease, GPS Dental can help. At GPS Dental, we offer treatment for our patients with Gum Disease with thorough dental cleanings that you may not find through other dental offices. Call 210-633-3477 to schedule your dental exam and cleaning, remember it can lead to early detection and diagnosis of disease. Make sure to mention any changes in your health, new medications, and especially if you are seeing blood after brushing or flossing your teeth.

Dr. Skrobanek and his team at GPS Dental are accepting new patients and look forward to meeting you and your family.

Strengthen Your Immune System through Oral Hygiene/Care

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on June 8, 2021

Nobody has time to be sick in bed for a few days! Life often moves quickly, and we may try to eat healthier, exercise, etc. to contribute to staying healthy and sick-free. While these things are definitely helpful for your wellbeing, did you know that you can also greatly strengthen your immune system by staying on top of your oral hygiene? What a simple way to help stay well!

Related Article: 11 Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy

Strong Immune System Importance

Our immune system fights all the nasty viruses and bacteria that can enter our bodies. It’s complex, made of many cells, tissue, etc. throughout your body – and this includes the oral cavity. Actually, if you think about it, your mouth is often the first point of entry into your body. It’s almost like a gateway to the rest of your body. Bacteria and other foreign materials can enter through your mouth, so it’s important to strengthen your immune system by keeping your mouth as healthy as it can be to fight off anything harmful.

When your immune system is strong and can function normally, these every day, normal foreign materials and bacteria don’t pose much of a threat. However, if your oral health is struggling, any extra bacteria can cause an issue because your body can’t fight any more bad stuff. This is especially important during COVID-19.

Related Article: Brush Up on Dental Basics

A Weakened Immune System

When we start dealing with excess bacteria in the mouth, gum disease is a concern. Gum disease is formed from bacteria growing and spreading in the mouth, and grows on food and debris that accumulates around your gums and teeth. When your mouth has to start fighting off all those harmful bacteria (there is also good bacteria in your mouth), your immune system goes into action. It fights off those bad bacteria and inflammation that’s happening in your mouth. When your mouth becomes inflamed, so can the rest of your body.

So, instead of other bacteria going unnoticed, when you’re already sick with gum disease, other issues will be a big deal. “A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that the bacteria that causes gingivitis “…subverts the immune system” and promotes further inflammation by prohibiting the immune system’s ability to “eat” the invading bacteria. Immune system-related diseases include asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis, HIV/AIDS, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, heart disease and inflammatory bowel disease.”

Related Articles:

Keeping Your Immune System Strong with Oral Health

Keeping your immune system strong and healthy starts with the gateway to our bodies – our mouths! Brush your teeth daily, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups to stay on top of your dental care. You can also:

Wash your hands often
Try to minimize stress
Get a good amount of sleep each night
Maintain a healthy weight
Remember … schedule your Dental Visit!

GPS Dental Can Help

Dental professionals are true advocates of oral care. We are not only adamant about keeping teeth clean, but we are also concerned with your overall dental health. Checking for defects, abnormalities, and indications of severe issues in the bone, teeth, or gums are also at the forefront of our practice. Similarly, offering advice on how to strengthen your immune system through your oral hygiene routine by properly caring for teeth and correcting certain habits; this is also a part of the patient education that we offer. Should you be looking for a dentist that is serious about oral care, contact our dental office to book your dental appointment.

Dental Exams Can Lead to Early Diagnosis of Disease

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 25, 2021

Most Oral Problems Don’t Cause Pain, Unless it’s Serious. Your Dental Exam can detect issues and lead to early diagnosis!

Dentists can do so much more for us than find cavities or tell us how to properly brush our teeth! In fact, dental exams can provide us with detection and early diagnosis for multiple diseases and health issues. Our dentists are really our first line of defense and diagnosis for our overall health and our oral health – which go hand in hand.

According to Nico Geurs, DDS, chair of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Periodontology, and director of the UAB Dentistry Wellness Clinic…

“Diabetes, leukemia, and immune compromised patients will exhibit oral signs [of disease]. Many times, these are the first outward signs of the disease and a keen eye could facilitate the diagnosis. Oral health is not separate from overall health.”

Learn what The Mayo Clinic has to say about Dental Exams

Oral Care Impacts Diabetes and Heart Disease

Did you know that, according to Mayo Clinic…

“Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. There is also a strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.”

The proof is in the pudding, as they say! A healthy mouth helps contribute to whole body health and vice versa. So, while you may just be brushing and flossing your teeth, you’re also helping the rest of you stay healthy. Learn more about Whole Body Health.

Overall Checkup and The Importance of Oral Health

Oftentimes, we don’t even notice some oral health problems unless they cause us pain or discomfort. Maybe we have a signs and symptoms of a problem that we never would’ve noticed until later on, when issues have progressed.

The good news is, your dentists can look for multiple signs and symptoms that show signs in our mouths – such as oral cancer, Crohn’s Disease, and other serious health problems. So, when you get your regular dental checkups, you’re doing so much more for your overall health and wellbeing. How amazing is that? Early diagnosis through dental exams can sometimes determine health issues such as:

Crohn’s Disease
Diabetes
Oral Cancer
Anemia
GERD
Intense stress
Osteoporosis
Dementia
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Heart Disease

According to Gigi Meinecke, DMD, spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry and a dentist in private practice in Potomac, Maryland…

“People think we’re only looking at teeth. But typically, we’re looking at all of the soft tissues in the mouth. If I can’t find a reasonable explanation for the symptoms (that I see), I’ll recommend my patient see their regular doctor.”

Don’t Wait for a Toothache

Experiencing tooth pain is no small thing. In fact, tooth pain can ruin your day or put you in a bad mood. Sharp pain can make it difficult to concentrate at school or work, and extreme sensitivity can ruin mealtimes. What causes these frustrating tooth pains? Let’s take a closer look at the top five reasons for tooth pain and see when it’s time to visit your dentist!

Top 5 Reasons for a Toothache

Sensitivity: Has a certain tooth developed sensitivity to cold and/or hot temperatures? Tooth sensitivity can happen for a myriad of reasons and is often the indicator of an underlying symptom, so it’s important to let your dentist know if you’re experiencing extreme sensitivity.
- Related Article: “I Have Sensitive Teeth!!” How Can You Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

Chipped Tooth: Although enamel is extremely tough and durable, sometimes we experience a chipped or broken tooth whether it be from an injury or whatnot. Try to not chew on ice, pens, open packages with your teeth, and so on to prevent any breakage. A crack in the tooth can cause extreme sensitivity and pain. Sometimes, a crack may not be clearly visible to you and may be in the back area of the tooth. If you think you may have a crack, visit your dentist right away. Treatment options often include crowns and root canals, depending on severity.

Decay: Plaque and bacteria in the mouth do more than just bother your gums, they also begin to dissolve your enamel on your teeth. When your enamel gets broken down, your teeth aren’t as strong anymore and are more susceptible to weak spots and pain. When bacteria concentrate in an area, you can experience a cavity/holes in the teeth. When this happens, your teeth may feel sore and sensitive.
- Related Article: “Mask Mouth” is more than Stinky Breath: Gum Disease is on the Rise

Dental Abscess: Also caused from an excess of bacteria, an abscess forms when bacteria builds up inside your tooth’s pulp. This causes an infection and leads to swelling and soreness, or a toothache. Pus can also develop around the tooth, so it’s important to visit your dentist right away if you see these symptoms. An x-ray can confirm the diagnosis and often antibiotics are used to fight the infection.

Gum Disease: Gum disease is as worrisome as it sounds and affects many adults every year. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is when bacteria eat away at your gums. This is most often caused from bad dental hygiene and excess bacteria in the mouth. Gum disease can make your gums feel tender, or sometimes bleed, and cause tooth pain. The earlier you catch gum disease and begin treatment and better dental hygiene, the better. If you notice a toothache and swollen or red gums, come in and see your dentist quickly for an examination.
- Dental Health Awareness: Gum Disease & Heart Disease

Oral Bacteria and Health

Bacteria in the mouth cause tooth decay – by feeding on the sugars in the foods and drinks we consume – they leave behind the waste, in the form of a biofilm known as dental plaque.

Our mouths have lots of bacteria that is usually harmless. (Did you know that the bacteria in our body aids with digestion and other biological tasks?) However, if you do not brush or floss regularly, oral bacteria can reach dangerously high levels. When this happens, tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections can be the nasty result.

Bacteria and Decay Create Health Risks Throughout the Body

We talk a lot about the early diagnosis of disease during dental exams, here is evidence that the oral bacteria and high level of inflammation associated with the serious gum disease known as periodontitis can play a role in diseases in other parts of the body.

The following health issues and diseases are linked with poor gum health:

Infections from Abscesses: In some rare instances, severe tooth decay can lead to an abscess. The infection can travel to the heart, brain, or lungs, causing severe illness or even death.
Cardiovascular Diseases: There are researchers who suggest that heart disease, stroke and clogged arteries are linked to the inflammation and infections caused by too much oral bacteria.
Pregnancy and Birth Complications: Severe gum infection has been linked to premature births and low birth weight.
Endocarditis: This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. This can occur when bacteria from other parts of your body, such as your mouth, move through your bloodstream and become attached to damaged areas in the heart.

Here are nine reasons professional cleanings are so important:

Your dental hygienist can remove most of the stains that dull and discolor your teeth, so you’ll be left with a brighter, whiter, healthy smile.
Having your teeth cleaned can prevent gum disease, which leads to early tooth loss.
In America alone, one person dies from oral cancer every hour, but many of these cancers are curable with early diagnosis when detected at an early stage during routine cleanings that includes oral cancer screenings.
A strong link exists between cardiovascular disease and gum disease. Because getting your teeth cleaned twice a year helps prevent gum disease, it can also reduce your chances of potentially deadly heart attacks and strokes.
During a professional dental cleaning, it’s easy for your dentist to detect early signs of problems such as broken fillings and tooth fractures.
Many dental insurance plans cover cleanings, and you’ll save money on dental expenses in the long run by taking advantage of your policy.
If your dentist finds any serious problems during a teeth cleaning or exam, the office can help you make financial arrangements to cover the necessary procedures.
Professional dental cleanings give your dentist or hygienist an opportunity to compare the state of your oral health to that of previous visits. If you’re moving in the wrong direction, immediate intervention can put you back on track.
Regular check-ups and dental cleanings help prevent and resolve persistent bad breath.

Are you looking for a dentist in San Antonio? Learn more about how GPS Dental Offers Affordable Dental Care.

Nearly all oral diseases don’t cause pain until they are very advanced, so early detection is key to stopping/helping any health problem. Make sure to see your dentist once every 6 months to stay on top of your overall health and wellbeing. Give us a call today to make your appointment!

GPS Dental is Accepting New Patients

If you’re looking for a new dental home, Dr. Skrobanek and his Team at GPS Dental look forward to meeting you during your dental exam and cleaning. Dental Exams Can Detect Signs of Disease Elsewhere in the Body. Experts say infections inside your mouth can cause health problems in other parts of the body and signal diseases such as leukemia and diabetes. You may want to think twice before delaying your dental checkup, as you could be delaying early diagnosis.

Stressed Out Oral Health: Gum Disease, Clenching and Grinding! Oh My!

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on March 23, 2021

Do you have stressed out oral health? Are you ready to find out how stress affects your oral health. Let’s talk about gum disease, clenching & grinding and other issues that can be magnified by stress.

You may think about stress being a factor behind many health problems, but the truth is, stress can also have a negative effect on your oral health as well. There are six main ways that stress can affect your oral health, including:

Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, you probably do it while you sleep that can cause headaches, a sore jaw, and damage to your teeth. Severe teeth grinding can cause oral health issues, such as loose teeth or even broken or lost teeth. Stress and anxiety are a major cause of teeth grinding. Meditation, counseling and exercise are some ways to reduce the stress that causes teeth grinding. Your dentist can also make you a tooth guard to wear at night.
TMJ Disorder: TMJ stands for temporomandibular joints. These are the joints that you use to move your lower jaw. They are located just below your ear. Swelling or stiffness in these joints can cause a TMJ disorder. Symptoms can include pain, clicking and popping. Stress is a major cause of TMJ problems. For instance, stress can cause you to clench your jaw and grind your teeth.
Gum Disease: Stress makes it harder for your body to fight off infections. Gum disease is an infection of your gums that can cause loose teeth, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Stress can also contribute to gum disease if it causes you to grind your teeth, clench your jaw, or smoke cigarettes.
Canker Sores: If you are like most people, you have suffered through occasional attacks of these painful and annoying mouth ulcers. Triggers include vitamin B deficiency and any type of mouth injury or irritation. Several studies now show that stress is another big trigger for canker sores. If you still get a canker, your doctor or dentist may prescribe a gel or cream to relieve the pain.
Biting Your Nails: Nail biting can move your teeth out of position. It can also damage your teeth. The germs from your fingernails can be transferred to your mouth and can lead to mouth infections.
Burning Mouth: Burning mouth syndrome is a dry, hot and burning feeling in your mouth. Stress, anxiety and depression may be part of the problem. Dry mouth syndrome is more common in women after menopause, so hormone changes may also be involved. Treatment for dry mouth syndrome can include stress counseling and antidepressant medication. Stress-related smoking and drinking can make burning mouth worse.

Each of these issues can be results from too much stress in your life. However, there are steps you can take to keep your mouth healthy, so you don’t have stressed out oral health!

Let’s go deeper into three of these issues.

Teeth Grinding

One common result of stress is teeth grinding. Stress can make us clench our jaw and grind our teeth throughout the day and into the night. If you already struggle with teeth grinding, stress can make this problem harder to handle. If untreated, you can suffer from loosening teeth and TMJ, which causes pain and discomfort in the jaw. To remedy this, talk to us about night guard options to put a stop to your teeth grinding at night. Throughout the day, try to be conscious if you’re clenching your teeth, and relax your jaw when you can. Try to keep your teeth slightly apart when not chewing/eating. Learn more about TMJ HERE.

Related Article: Custom Mouthguards Help Sleep Apnea

Gum Disease

Stress can make it harder for our bodies to fight viruses and other harmful bacteria in the body, leaving you more vulnerable to infections. This means that if you’re dealing with gum disease, your body will have a harder time dealing with it and healing. Also, if stress is causing you to grind your teeth, smoke cigarettes, or clench your jaw, then it could contribute to gum disease as well. Stress can also make us forget to brush and floss as often as needed, so remember to stay on top of your oral health routine at home.

Related Article:

Mouth Sores

Just like gum disease, canker sores and mouth sores can arise from your body not being able to fight off bacteria during high levels of stress. Although experts aren’t sure what exactly causes canker sores, it’s important to keep your immune system as healthy as possible, starting with your oral health. To stop irritation, keep away from spicy foods or foods with high acid content. You can try over-the-counter medicines to numb the sores, or we may prescribe a steroid ointment, if needed.

Suffering Oral Health

Stress can overtake our days, and when that happens, our normal routine is disrupted. We may be so busy worrying about other things, that we forget to take care of ourselves or can affect our mood, making us not want to take care of ourselves. Remind yourself about the importance of cleaning your teeth, so you can avoid having stressed out oral health. You don’t want to see the dentist for cavities and other issues, so brushing twice a day and flossing once a day is the way to achieve that!

GPS Dental Wants You to be Healthy

As you know, oral health is so important; however, when your body is stressed, it can lead to having stressed out oral health! A solid foundation that includes brushing and flossing daily is key for you and your family? Dr. Skrobanek and his Team can help you maintain or improve your oral health, because they can assess your situation and customize a treatment plan at whatever stage you find yourself. Schedule your dental exam and cleaning at GPS Dental. We look forward to seeing you at your next dental appointment.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

“Mouth Mask” is more than Stinky Breath: Gum Disease on the RISE

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on December 8, 2020

“Mouth Mask” is more than Stinky Breath: Tooth Decay & Gum Disease is on the RISE!!

Did you know that stinky breath behind your face mask could be more than a simple, embarrassing problem? Today, more and more dentists are seeing a rise in gum disease. A term coined “mask mouth” is a contributing factor to the increase in oral health problems. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat this and keep mask mouth at bay! Let’s dive into some helpful tips and information.

Mask Mouth: Learn More about the seriously stinky side effects HERE.

Related Article: What is that SMELL?? It may be more than bad breath.

Here’s How to Conquer Mask Mouth

Bad breath is often a sign that something isn’t quite right. When we wear our masks, we may breathe through our mouths more and dry out our mouths. While this may not seem like an issue, when we dry out our mouths, we leave them more susceptible to bacteria growth. When bacteria grows in our mouth, we can experience things like cavities and gum disease. Saliva is a huge multitasker in our mouths and it constantly keeps bacteria at bay. When we lose saliva production, we lose our biggest bacteria fighter.

There are definitely some changes we can make to reduce the symptoms of mask mouth and keep our teeth cleaner and less prone to decay.

Watch your diet: Certain foods can make our breath stink, so when we’re wearing a mask it’s extra important to think about what you’re consuming. Try to avoid coffee, garlic, and onions and try swishing with water after eating.
Freshen up. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth correctly and try keeping mouthwash on hand to fight bad breath and bacteria in-between your brushings. Chewing sugar-free gum can also help with this. It also might be time for a new, fresh toothbrush.
Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day and try to avoid alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks, which can cause dehydration and buildup of bacteria.
Use a clean mask. Replace your mask often and clean between wearing.
Take fresh-air breaks. Try and take a few breaks throughout the day and breath fresh air through your nose.

If your breath smells unpleasant, it could mean that there are germs and bacteria that you need to get rid of. Learn More about how to take care of your mouth behind a face mask HERE.

Mask Mouth Symptoms

Curious if you’re experiencing mask mouth? Here’s the most common symptoms to be aware of.

Bad Breath and Dry Mouth: One of the most common signs of mask mouth is bad breath. If you’re breathing through your mouth while wearing a mask, you’re drying out your mouth and causing bad breath. This can also cause dry lips. Saliva is such a great tool that our body already produces to help keep the germs out of our mouth, so when our mouth becomes dry and we lose saliva production, we build more bad-breath bacteria in the mouth. Less saliva in the mouth also means we are more prone to tooth decay and infections. So, when we are wearing our mask often and experience dry mouth, we’re advancing or progressing tooth decay.
Bleeding gums: Another symptom of mask mouth is bleeding or swollen gums. This also comes from an excess of bacteria and plaque in the mouth.

Oral Bacteria and Your Smile

Healthy teeth are about more than just a pretty smile… and what does oral bacteria have to do with a pretty smile?

Your oral health has a major effect on the overall health of your body, not just in your mouth. By maintaining healthy teeth and gums, you can make your body healthier from head to toe. If not, tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections can be the nasty result.

Learn more in this article: Oral Bacteria: Are Healthy Teeth Just About a Pretty Smile?

Is there a link between Pneumonia and Poor Oral Health?

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on August 11, 2020

Anyone and everyone can get pneumonia. In fact, according to a study by Science Daily, over 1 million Americans are infected with pneumonia every year. Furthermore, studies have also shown that there is a link between oral health and your risk for getting pneumonia – with people who never get dental checkups having an 86 percent higher risk of getting pneumonia.

More information about geriatric oral health and pneumonia risk HERE.

Pneumonia & Poor Oral Health: Pneumonia Prevention

Knowing that there is a link between pneumonia and poor oral health, one can assume that good oral health can help prevent pneumonia. According to scholar, Koichiro UEDA, “In recent years, the need for oral care in preventing aspiration pneumonia has been recognized across the academic disciplines.”

Pneumonia prevention consists of:

Regular Dental Cleanings

Regular cleanings and visits to the dentist will greatly reduce the number of harmful bacteria and plaque in the mouth. This keeps your mouth healthy and less at risk. On the flip side, when dental cleanings are ignored, there is a much greater risk for bacterial pneumonia because the bacteria are thriving in your mouth. According to Michelle Doll, MD, “In the case of bacteria that cause pneumonia, for example, they have to be inhaled to cause an infection. Getting regular cleanings and check-ups may reduce the amount of these bacteria.”

Read more on the importance of dental cleanings from Health.com HERE.

Related Articles:

Clean Teeth and Clean Lungs

Did you know that dental cleanings do much more than just clean your teeth and improve your oral health? They’re also beneficial for your lungs!

Here’s the basic rundown.

Dental cleanings reduce bacteria in the mouth.
When bacteria are reduced in the mouth, it doesn’t get into the lungs.
This also reduces your risk for lung infection and helps keep your lungs bacteria free.

Learn more from WebMD about oral health and lung health HERE.

As you can see the link between pneumonia and poor oral health is a true concern, especially for our older dental patients. It’s clear that oral health is connected to your overall health, so remember to take care of your smile and your body will thank you!

Dental Exams are Important for SO Many Reasons …

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on May 26, 2020

We ALL need to visit our Dentist every 6 months!!

Every person, whether you have good teeth or not, whether your gums are healthy or not, whether you build up a lot of plaque and tartar or not, whether you are the world’s best brusher and flosser, or not.

That’s right, everyone needs to see the dentist every 6 months.

Regular dental exams are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends a visit to the dentist at least once a year but making an appointment once in six months prevents a host of oral related problems.

Regular Dental Exams Keep MORE than Your smile Healthy!

Have you had a dental cleaning and exam this year? Professional dental exams and cleanings aren’t just for keeping your smile bright; they can have a significant impact on your general health.

Insufficient oral hygiene has been linked to several serious illnesses. Associated medical and dental issues include bone loss, cardiovascular disease, strokes, cancers, and many other problems. Brushing and flossing at home are essential, but to ensure teeth are healthy and thoroughly clean, you should schedule regular check-ups with your dentist and annual dental cleanings with your dental hygienist.

Here are nine reasons professional cleanings are so important.

Your dental hygienist can remove most of the stains that dull and discolor your teeth, so you’ll be left with a brighter, whiter smile.
Having your teeth cleaned can prevent gum disease, which leads to early tooth loss. We’ll discuss more about this later…
In America alone, one person dies from oral cancer every hour, but many of these cancers are curable if detected at an early stage during a routine cleaning.
A strong link exists between cardiovascular disease and gum disease. Because getting your teeth cleaned twice a year helps prevent gum disease, it can also reduce your chances of potentially deadly heart attacks and strokes.
During a professional dental cleaning, it’s easy for your dentist to detect early signs of problems such as broken fillings and fractures.
Many dental plans cover cleanings, and you’ll save money on dental expenses in the long run by taking advantage of your policy.
If your dentist finds any serious problems during a teeth cleaning or exam, the office can help you make financial arrangements to cover the necessary procedures.
Professional dental cleanings give your dentist or hygienist an opportunity to compare the state of your oral health to that of previous visits. If you’re moving in the wrong direction, immediate intervention can put you back on track.
Regular check-ups and dental cleanings help prevent and resolve persistent bad breath.

Check out this article about how often you should see your dentist in SELF Magazine: Do I Really Need Teeth Cleanings Twice a Year?

Don’t let oral bacteria (or cavities) get you down!

Bacteria is a sneaky opportunist that loves to break down your enamel and cause issues that can affect the health of your teeth and gums. When you get regular, professional cleanings, your dentist can help you avoid bacteria build up and catch any problems early on, including cavities – saving you time and money!

Cavities happen all the time. They’re an extremely common problem that most everyone faces when they’re a child, teen, or adult. When you sit in the dentist’s chair and find out you have a cavity, it can put a damper on your day. Cavities are often minor inconveniences, and annoying toothaches and tooth sensitivity are often associated with cavities.

Cavities are simply no fun at all. Nonetheless, with quick treatment by your dentist and oral hygiene diligence, cavities don’t have to form into bigger problems. If left untreated; however, cavities can form into much bigger oral complications, such as tooth loss, broken teeth, and gum disease.

Don’t forget, your dentist also performs an oral cancer screening during your dental exam as well!

More on Cavities and Tooth Decay from The Mayo Clinic.

Cavity Formation and Risk Factors

Cavities form because of tooth decay – often due to excess bacteria and plaque in the mouth. Once the tooth begins to decay, a cavity forms over time and creates little holes in teeth. Sometimes, when a cavity forms, you can experience a toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold. Some people may not experience any pain or discomfort from a cavity and that’s why it is so important to see your dentist for regular dental exams and cavity checks.

Bacteria is a destructive force in the mouth. When bacteria are present, they begin breaking down enamel, causing a build-up of plaque and tartar, and irritate the gums. Everything in connected with your oral health and if bacteria begins affecting a tooth and causing a cavity, it could also be causing gum disease.

Here’s a deep dive into Gum Disease.

Gum Disease Causes and Treatment

Cavities are a tell-tale sign of excess bacteria in the mouth. This means that you probably need to ramp-up your oral hygiene routine. Maybe you need to spend more time brushing, add in more flossing, and so on. Talking with your dentist will help you pin-point what you can do to eliminate the risk of cavities and gum disease. When cavities are present and bacteria is left untreated in the mouth, your gums can begin to get inflamed, which is the basis of gum disease.

According to WebMD, gum disease begins with bacteria in the mouth and can lead to tooth loss because of the loss of gum tissue. Gum disease attacks the gums, making them recede and not hold on to your teeth as well as they should. Look for these signs and symptoms:

Swollen or sensitive gums
Bleeding gums
Receding gums
Pockets between the gums
Loose teeth
Bad breath

Catching gum disease early is key to recovery, much like cavities. Proper plaque and bacteria control are key to eliminating gum disease and cavity risk! So, talk with your dentist to see what works best for you, and remember that proper oral healthcare, including dental exams twice each year, is the best defense against bacteria.

More on Gum Disease Treatment Options from WebMD.

Dental Benefits are on Your Side

Keeping up with a regular cleaning schedule helps you make the most of your dental benefits. Remember, prevention is always better than a treatment. Preventive Dental Care is almost always covered 100% by your insurance provider, so talk with your provider to understand the full benefits of your preventive care, and, once you know them, schedule dental exams with your dentist in advance.

When you make the most out of your benefits, you’re not leaving money on the table. Benefits will not roll over into next year, so once they are gone, they are gone for good! Make sure your oral health is on track and use your benefits to the maximum this year.

According to WebMD, read more about what is and is not (typically) covered by Dental Insurance. If you have questions about your dental insurance benefits or coverage, please give us a call at 210-633-3477 — we’d love to help you!