How Oral Inflammation Affects Your Health

inflamed gums Kelowna

Swollen and painful gums are symptoms of periodontal disease, an inflammatory gum disease. Swelling occurs from an auto-immune response of the body reacting to an infection. Infections are noticeable through pain, redness, and warmth. If the infection is left untreated, it can influence the bone near the teeth. The body’s immune system wants to rid the bone of the harmful material the bacteria is creating. Over time, bone loss will arise.

Inflammation in the gums also is associated with atherosclerosis, the occurrence of fatty deposits inside the body’s arteries. Inflammation coincides with an increase of the blood protein CRP (C-reactive protein), produced by the liver. The more inflammation there is, the more the liver produces CRP. The more CRP present, the more likely cardiovascular disease is present, along with related issues. CRP production is also related to arthritis, auto-immune disorders, and intestinal dilemmas.

Scientists are currently looking into the relationship between periodontal inflammation and CRP levels and the effects outside of the oral cavity. Links have already been discovered between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

If inflammation is left untreated, gums can develop pockets that provide the perfect breeding ground for infection. The longer the infection persists, the more likely bone loss will arise, eventually causing tooth loss.

It is vital to practice preventive dental care daily at home and have regular visits to the dentist. Dental appointments should include an exam, cleaning, and full mouth x-rays, along with the important knowledge and instruction on how to properly care for teeth and gums at home. It is also very important to see your dentist promptly if a tooth suddenly becomes sensitive or you observe any other changes.

Thanks for visiting our blog. For more specifics about inflammation or periodontal disease, give us a call.

 

CONTACT LOVE YOUR SMILE – DR. STEPHEN MALFAIR:

778-760-2099

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


Preventing Gum Disease At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair

Preventing Gum Disease at Love Your Smile - Dr. Stephen Malfair Run your tongue along the gumline behind your lower front teeth. Do you feel a ridge? This is probably tartar or dental calculus.

Even if you brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can gradually accumulate. If not removed, these bacteria-breeding substances cause the gums to become irritated and swollen. Eventually, the gums become detached from the tooth, creating a ‘pocket’. This creates a new space for plaque and tartar to grow. In advanced stages of periodontal disease, the toxins created by the bacteria literally rot the gum, teeth and bone.

At Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna, we perform the most thorough dental cleanings possible. Gum disease can be reversed in its early stages.

Our goal is to help our Kelowna dental patients prevent gum disease before any damage occurs. Cleanings include root planing and periodontal scaling. Scaling removes the plaque and calculus above and, especially, below the gumline where your toothbrush cannot reach. Planing smoothes root surfaces so it is more difficult for plaque and tartar to accumulate and grow. It also creates a healthy surface for the gums to reattach to the root if necessary.

To schedule a deep cleaning, call 250-860-8900. We are located at 301-1890 Cooper Rd in Kelowna. In addition to providing comprehensive dental cleanings, we create mega-watt smiles for cosmetic dentistry patients in the Mission and V1Y 8B7 area. See http://drmalfair.ca/blog/ for more information about our state-of-the-art dental practice.

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Kelowna Area

4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Kelowna Area

Maintaining good oral hygiene in the Kelowna area is essential to overall health and wellness. Your teeth and gums are the foundation of great personal health.

Most of us in the Kelowna area brush our teeth twice a day. This is good practice and makes for a good start to your oral health. However, many people overlook the importance of flossing. Flossing is just as important as brushing, if not more so.

Here are four good reasons why flossing your teeth is so important:

Flossing Removes Plaque and Food Particles

Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that forms on teeth and gums. It’s a major cause of tooth decay and gum disease. While brushing can remove some of the plaque from the surface of your teeth, it can’t always reach the areas between your teeth. Flossing is a convenient way to remove plaque and food particles from these hard-to-reach areas.

Flossing Prevents Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. It can eventually lead to tooth loss. Flossing can help prevent gum disease by removing the plaque and food particles that can lead to inflammation and infection. It can also help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

Flossing Reduces Bad Breath

Perhaps most importantly for most of us, flossing can help prevent bad breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and unpleasant. It is often caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce foul-smelling gases. Flossing can help reduce bad breath by removing the food particles and bacteria that can contribute to the problem.

This single benefit alone makes flossing worth the effort, but we have one more big one…

Flossing Saves Money

Flossing is a simple and inexpensive way to prevent more serious oral health problems. By taking care of your teeth and gums through regular flossing, you can avoid expensive dental treatments down the road. This can save you both time and money in the long run.

Come in to Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair for a quick check up and we can help guide you with a prevention plan that includes regular flossing. We can also recommend useful tools that will help you maintain good oral health within your lifestyle. For example, there are many new products on the market today that make flossing a lot easier and much more convenient.

Flossing is an essential part of good oral hygiene. It can help prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


Periodontal Disease Is Linked To Systemic Diseases

gum disease treatment Kelowna

What do your gums do?

The soft tissue in your mouth, like skin, has an essential job. It protects the roots of your teeth. It also provides a barrier for the connective tissues and ligaments that hold your teeth in their sockets. Plus the alveolar bone in which your teeth are anchored.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease starts with inflammation. Gums become swollen and tender. In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. As the disease advances, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets. This is called periodontitis or periodontal disease.

What causes gingivitis?

Bacteria are always present in the oral cavity. When it is left on the teeth and gums, it turns into plaque. Plaque is a thick coating of bacteria on your gums and teeth. Plaque accumulates if it is not removed by rinsing, brushing, and flossing. If plaque builds up in the pockets, the gums can start loosening. When plaque hardens, it is called tartar or calculus. You can’t brush away tartar with your toothbrush. You need to have a professional dental cleaning.

What are signs of gum disease?

  • Inflamed gums
  • Bad breath
  • Detached gums
  • A change in the color of gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Pus between teeth and gums
  • Teeth that appear longer
  • Growing spaces between teeth
  • Changes in your bite

How does gingivitis threaten your health?

Gum disease boosts your risk of:

  • Stroke
  • Heart disease
  • Heart attacks
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • Asthma
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Low infant birth weight

Can periodontitis be prevented?

Yes. Proper dental hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and a nutritious diet can keep gums healthy.

For information on treatment for periodontitis, schedule a gum disease exam and consultation by calling 250-860-8900.

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


How Much Do You Know About Gum Disease?

gum disease treatment Kelowna

1. Which of the following are risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis)?

a. Pregnancy
b. Overbite
c. Diabetes
d. Genetics

2. Which of the things listed below are possible signs of gum disease?

a. Teeth that appear longer
b. A change in the way dentures fit
c. Loose teeth
d. Tender gums

3. Which of the items below are possible health problems linked to untreated gum disease?

a. Asthma
b. Low birth weight babies
c. Parkinson’s disease
d. Stroke

4. What percentage of men and women age 65+ have gum disease?

a. 5%
b. 12%
c. 25%
d. 50%

5. Which of the following procedures are used for gum disease?

a. Scaling and root planing
b. Gum grafting
c. Flap surgery
d. Flip surgery

Answers
1. All of the above. Pregnancy, menopause, or any other condition that causes hormonal changes is a risk factor as is any type of malocclusion.
2. All of the above. Note: some patients don’t observe any symptoms.
3. a,b,d.
4. c.
5. a,b,c.

Hi, I’m Dr. Malfair of Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair in Kelowna. Gum disease usually responds favorably to treatment—especially if caught early. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, or have been noticing issues with your gums or teeth, I invite you to call 250-860-8900 today to schedule an appointment.

Sources:
John Donavan, “5 Things You Didn’t Know About Your Teeth,” WebMD, December 15, 2015, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/5-things-you-didnt-know-about-your-teeth#3, accessed March 20, 2017
“Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments,” National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm, accessed March 20, 2017
“Diseases and Conditions Periodontitis,” Mayo Clinic, February 4, 2014, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/basics/risk-factors/con-20021679, accessed March 20, 2017

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


The Link Between Gum Disease and Viral Infections

gum disease and COVID-19 risks Kelowna

The pandemic has increased public awareness of the danger of viruses and the importance of a strong immune system. We at Love Your Smile in Kelowna can help you understand the link between viruses and gum disease

Our Immune System Protects Against Serious Illness

The variation in the severity of COVID-19 illness is due, in part, to the strength of natural biological defenses.

Of course, you may be wondering why we’re discussing this in a dental blog. Does it have anything to do with dental health?

Actually, it does. Scientists have found a link between oral bacteria and viral infections.

Gum Disease is Caused by Bacteria

The oral bacteria in question is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis for short). The “gingivalis” in its name gives you a clue to what type of bacteria it is. As you may have anticipated, P. gingivalis is the bacteria that causes gingivitis and the more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.

Your Mouth Produces Natural Viral Protection

Interferon lambdas are a family of proteins created by cells in the mouth. These proteins protect us from all types of bacterial and viral infections in addition to the coronavirus. The danger of P. gingivalis is that it makes Interferon lambdas less effective at protecting us.

This is how one of the researchers explained it:

“Our studies identified certain pathogenic bacterial species, P. gingivalis, which cause periodontal disease, can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection. These resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating antiviral responses.” Juhi Bagaitkar, assistant professor, University of Louisville Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease.

Oral Health and Physical Health Go Hand in Hand

As if you needed one more reason to prevent gum disease! Not only does gum disease put you tooth loss, it makes you more susceptible to the potential dangers of viruses. To recap: if you avoid gum disease, you protect your mouth from P. gingivalis. This lets you benefit from Interferon lambdas and the virus protection they provide.

Let’s discuss basic oral hygiene practices that can prevent periodontitis and keep your smile healthy:

  • Brush at least twice daily using appropriate brushing techniques
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily using the correct flossing method
  • Get a professional dental cleaning twice a year
  • Schedule twice-yearly dental exams
  • Take care of dental dilemmas in their early stages so they don’t progress

Has it been a while since you’ve had a dental exam and cleaning? We serve patients in the Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 area. Our friendly team of dental professionals is here for and your family. We at Love Your Smile in Kelowna can serve all of your dental needs. Schedule an appointment today.

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7


Swollen Gums?

If Your Gums Are Swollen And Sore, Call Love Your Smile - Dr. Stephen Malfair

If you are worried about swollen gums or an aching tooth, you’re are not alone. You should have your symptoms checked out right away, because they could be a sign of gum disease, a serious but treatable condition at Love Your Smile in Kelowna.

Gum disease is progressive. Before it reaches the advanced stage it is called gingivitis, which is inflammation in the gums. An early sign of gingivitis is bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth.

Gingivitis develops when plaque is not adequately removed from your teeth. You remove it by brushing and flossing. The good news is that gingivitis is easily reversible. If you’re diagnosed with it, you need to step up your brushing and flossing, and get a professional cleaning by a dental hygienist.

Advanced gum disease develops when gingivitis is not treated. Toxins build up in the plaque on your teeth and invade gum tissue. Not only that, it gets into the bone and ligaments that support the teeth. The teeth can actually become loose.

Severe cases may require surgery, but first is a non-surgical treatment called scaling and root planing, or SRP. We scrape plaque and tartar off the surfaces of your teeth and root surfaces. From there, any roughness on the roots is smoothed to prevent bacteria from accumulating there.

It usually takes more than one appointment to complete SRP. But once it’s over, the gums will heal and reattach to the teeth. After a few weeks we’ll evaluate the procedure to determine whether additional treatment is necessary.

Gum disease can be prevented with proper dental care. Like we always say, brush and floss twice a day to maintain good dental health. People from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 have sought gum disease treatment at Love Your Smile in Kelowna. We also offer complete general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more. Schedule an appointment with us today!

 

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7

 

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Danger Zone! 5 Signs Of Gum Disease

dental payment plans Mission

Here is important news for anyone who cares about their dental health: gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss among adults. There is also evidence that it is associated with heart disease. At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, gum disease is easy to treat if it is caught in the early stages.

What warning signs should you be looking for?

  • Bleeding gums
  • Tender, swollen, or reddish gums, or gums that have visible pus in between them when they are pushed
  • Sudden changes in your bite or your teeth
  • Loose gums or teeth
  • A bad taste in the mouth or chronic bad breath

Even if you aren’t seeing any of these symptoms, keep brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis. We recommend twice each day. It’s the best way to maintain dental health and prevent gum disease. Regular check-ups are also important.

At Love Your Smile in Kelowna, we offer gum disease treatment. People from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 also come to our practice for complete general and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7

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The Love Your Smile Guide To Preventing Gum Disease

gum disease Kelowna

Here is a statistic that should make everyone sit up and take notice: seven out of ten Canadian adults will have gum disease at some point in their lives. It is preventable, though, and also treatable at Love Your Smile in Kelowna.

Gum disease is usually the result of poor brushing and flossing habits. When you don’t brush and floss on a regular basis, there is a build-up of plaque, which hardens into a substance called tartar. That’s why we recommend our patients brush and floss twice a day. It’s the best way to prevent plaque from building up.

No amount of brushing and flossing will remove tartar from your teeth. It takes a professional cleaning to remove it, which is why we want to see our patients twice a year.

Risk factors for developing gum disease include:

  • Smoking, which is the most significant
  • Diabetes
  • Genetics
  • Certain illnesses, like AIDS, and their medication
  • Medication that reduces the flow of saliva

The symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Painful chewing
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Receding gums

The type of treatment a patient gets for gum disease depends on the extent of the condition. Part of the treatment might include behavioral changes, like giving up smoking. And it is essential that the patient adopts good daily dental care.

The plain truth is that anyone can get gum disease. But there is always hope; the earlier it is detected, the sooner treatment can begin. People from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 come to Love Your Smile in Kelowna for xxx and much more. Call for an appointment today!

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7

 

ArticleID 6456

Do You Have Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal Disease in British Columbia

Gum disease is more common than you might think. At Love Your Smile in Kelowna we see patients with gum disease almost every day. It’s a serious matter, but can usually be avoided with regular brushing at home, and preventative dentistry.

Some people aren’t even aware they have it until we see it during a checkup. It’s a treatable condition, although the earlier the diagnosis the better.

Gum disease is an inflammation or infection of the gums. It is usually the result of poor brushing and flossing habits. When you don’t brush and floss on a regular basis, there is a build-up of plaque, which hardens into a substance called tartar. That’s why we recommend our patients brush and floss twice a day. It’s the best way to prevent plaque from building up.

No amount of brushing and flossing will remove tartar from your teeth. It takes a professional cleaning to remove it, which is why we want to see our patients on a regular basis – twice a year, in most cases.

Risk Factors

In addition to poor oral hygiene, risk factors for gum disease include:

  • Smoking, which is the most significant
  • Diabetes
  • Genetics
  • Certain illnesses, like AIDS, and their medication
  • Medication that reduces the flow of saliva

The symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Painful chewing
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Receding gums

The type of treatment for gum disease depends on the extent of the condition. Part of the treatment might include behavioral changes, like giving up smoking. And it is essential that the patient adopts good daily dental care.

Anyone can get gum disease, but preventative dentistry at Love Your Smile in Kelowna can help keep your gums healthy. Patients from Mission, V1Y 8B7, and V1W 3C6 also come to us for clear braces and all their dental health needs. Schedule an appointment today!

Contact Love Your Smile – Dr. Stephen Malfair:

250-860-8900

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

301-1890 Cooper Rd
Kelowna, British Columbia
V1Y 8B7

 

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