Dr. David Scharf Blog

When it comes to tooth decay and gum disease everyone can agree that prevention is better than treatment any day. What many don’t agree on however is exactly what it takes to prevent gum disease. On one side you’ll hear the need to brush and floss twice daily, and on the other you’ll hear that brushing is all you need. After reviewing the results of a recent study any Periodontist on Long Island can agree that flossing plays a critical role in the health of your mouth.

The study observed 51 sets of twins ranging from age 12 to 21 and was conducted at New York University. Each twin was randomly assigned a two-week oral care regimen where one twin brushed with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste while the other brushed with a manual toothbrush and toothpaste as well as flossed.

At the completion of the two week study it was hands down that flossing was important. Each participant provided samples to determine the level of bacteria associated with gum disease. The results showed that the twins who didn’t floss had higher levels of bacteria than those that did.

The significance of bacteria growth in the mouth lies with an understanding of the true causes of gum disease. Gum disease is progressive and begins with an excessive amount of plaque forming on the teeth near the gum line providing a place for bacteria to grow. The gums then react to the bacteria with signs of inflammation which include, bleeding, redness, swelling, persistent bad breath and eventually missing teeth.

Brushing alone does not remove the plaque between and behind your teeth. This is where flossing regularly plays such an important role. If flossing has not been a regular part of your routine it’s not too late to start. Talk with your dental practitioner about the type of floss and technique to keep your gums healthy.

If you notice signs of gum disease contact a local Periodontist right away. Dr. Scharf treats gum disease with a laser, not a scalpel, for people who need a Periodontist on Long Island and want an alternative to gum surgery call Dr. Scharf at 631-661-6633 or visit him on the web at http://drscharf.com.

Tags: bleeding gums Long Island, Long Island peridontist, long island periodontist, periodontist disease Long Island, periodontist in Long Island

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 22nd, 2010 at 5:36 pm and is filed under blog, periodontist on Long Island. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.