How we can prevent gum disease through regular cleanings.   

The first step in preventing gum disease is to understand it. This condition is essentially an infection of the gum tissue. It causes the gums to separate from the teeth and, if not treated, it can progress to a bone infection. The deterioration of gum and bone tissues cause teeth to become loose and eventually fall out if the infection is not stopped.

Here in this article Dr. Konstantine Malafis, a dentist in Astoria  discusses the signs of gum disease and the types of gum disease. 

It is not possible to eliminate all oral bacteria; however, excellent hygiene practices and dental care can prevent the bacteria from congregating in the gums and causing health complications. Plaque is the sticky residue that accumulates on your teeth between brushing. It also accumulates in the shallow groove around teeth, where they meet the gums. If not removed, plaque will harden and turn into tartar, which is difficult to remove. The only effective method of preventing tartar buildup is diligent oral hygiene.

The signs of gum disease include:

• Red, inflamed gums
• Gums that bleed easily when you brush
• Chronic bad breath
• A receding gum line
• Loose or sensitive teeth

Types of Gum Disease

Gum disease is generally categorized as gingivitis or periodontitis. The most important distinction between the two is the severity of the infection. The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis. It is characterized by inflamed gums that bleed easily. At this stage, it can usually be reversed with good hygiene and conservative treatment.

Because gum disease is progressive, gingivitis can turn into>periodontitis, a much more serious condition. At this stage, there are deep pockets around the teeth and the bone begins deteriorating. Periodontitis requires a more aggressive treatment plan . If not treated,periodontitis can increase the risk of other health problems, such as diabetes, respiratory difficulties, and heart disease.

How can you prevent gum disease through regular cleanings?

As always regular dental cleanings are essential in preventing gum disease by effectively removing plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing and flossing might miss. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can harden into tartar if not properly cleaned, leading to gum inflammation and, eventually, periodontal disease. Professional cleanings disrupt this process, maintaining gum health.

How common is lost teeth due to poor hygiene?

Dr Irina Kessler of New York Family Dental Arts, who is a cosmetic dentist on the upper east side, explains that gum disease due to lack of proper dental hygiene and regular teeth cleanings is very common. The main problem with patients that sees is lost teeth due to poor dental hygiene. Her practice offers teeth cleanings on the upper east side for patients that do not have dental insurance by offering them at a reduced rate of $325 for an exam, cleaning and x-ray. She also offers dental implants on the upper east side to patients who have missing teeth. 

During these cleanings, dental hygienists use specialized tools to meticulously clean below the gumline, eliminating harmful deposits. This thorough cleaning reduces the risk of gum disease progression and can reverse early-stage gingivitis. Additionally, regular check-ups allow dental professionals to monitor oral health, identify early signs of gum disease, and provide personalized advice on improving oral hygiene practices.

Incorporating professional cleanings into your oral care routine, alongside consistent brushing and flossing, forms a comprehensive approach to preventing gum disease and promoting overall oral health.

Konstantine Malafis, DDS is a dentist in Astoria performing all forms of cosmetic and general dentistry. If you are looking for a teeth cleaning in Astoria then visit us online at www.masterdentalny.com

Why ignoring a dental emergency may not be a good idea.

Dr. Konstantine Malafis explains why not taking care of a dental emergency in a timely manner may exacerbate the situation.

The Dangers of Ignoring a Dental Emergency

Dr. Konstantine Malafis explains why not taking care of a dental emergency in a timely manner may exacerbate the situation.

Time and time again in our practice we see patients coming in with dental emergencies that have had a potential emergency issue for a while but have ignored it. Unfortunately this always means that it will usually cost more money if you do not have insurance but it may also cost you one of your teeth. As an emergency dentist in Astoria we have seen virtually every type of dental emergency possible. Dental emergencies are often painful and disruptive, but some people choose to ignore them, hoping the issue will resolve on its own. Unfortunately, delaying treatment can lead to serious complications, escalating both the pain and the cost of care. Ignoring a dental emergency can result in infections, permanent tooth loss, systemic health problems, and an overall decline in oral and general well-being.

 

1. Infections Can Spread

One of the most immediate risks of ignoring a dental emergency is infection. A small cavity, crack, or gum injury can become a breeding ground for bacteria. If left untreated, infections can spread beyond the mouth to other parts of the body.

For example, an untreated tooth abscess—a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection—can lead to severe complications. The infection may travel into the jawbone, sinuses, or even the bloodstream, leading to a condition called sepsis, which is life-threatening. Additionally, infections near the brain, such as those from upper molars, can cause brain abscesses or sinus infections, posing serious risks to overall health.

2. Increased Pain and Discomfort

What may start as mild pain or sensitivity can quickly escalate. A minor toothache might be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers, but as decay, infection, or trauma worsens, the pain can become unbearable. Ignoring the issue means that the problem festers, leading to swelling, difficulty eating, and even trouble sleeping.

In some cases, nerve damage can occur, which may cause shooting pain in the jaw, face, and even the head. This can interfere with daily activities and significantly reduce the person’s quality of life.

3. Risk of Permanent Tooth Loss

Teeth are not self-healing. When a tooth is cracked, broken, or severely decayed, it requires professional intervention. Delaying treatment can lead to the loss of the tooth entirely.

For example, a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if a dentist reinserts it within an hour. If ignored, the tooth may be lost permanently, requiring expensive replacements like implants or bridges. Additionally, untreated infections can destroy the supporting bone structure, making it impossible to replace the tooth without extensive surgery.

4. Gum Disease Progression

Ignoring gum-related emergencies can accelerate the development of periodontal disease. Bleeding, swollen, or receding gums may indicate an infection that, if untreated, can lead to gum recession and bone loss. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause teeth to loosen and fall out.

Gum infections can also increase the risk of systemic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown a link between chronic gum inflammation and heart disease, as bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to arterial plaque buildup.

5. Higher Treatment Costs

Addressing a dental emergency early is often more affordable than waiting until the problem becomes severe. A small cavity may only require a simple filling, but if left untreated, it can progress to the point where a root canal or extraction is necessary—both of which are more expensive and time-consuming.

Likewise, treating an early-stage gum infection with deep cleaning is far less costly than undergoing surgical interventions like gum grafts or bone regeneration procedures. The longer a dental emergency is ignored, the more complex and expensive the treatment becomes.

Loss of a tooth is usually replaced by a dental implant

6. Complications Affecting Overall Health

Oral health is closely linked to general health, and ignoring a dental emergency can have consequences beyond the mouth. Severe oral infections can contribute to conditions such as diabetes complications, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy risks. Pregnant women with untreated dental infections face a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

Additionally, chronic oral pain and infections can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off other illnesses. This is especially concerning for individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes, HIV, or autoimmune diseases.

A dental bridge can also be used to replace a missing tooth

7. Difficulty Eating and Speaking

Dental pain or missing teeth can make it difficult to chew properly, leading to poor nutrition. People may avoid certain foods that require chewing, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which are essential for overall health. This can lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, weakening the immune system and worsening overall health.

Similarly, missing or damaged teeth can affect speech. Gaps in the teeth or severe pain can make it difficult to pronounce words correctly, leading to self-consciousness and reduced confidence in social situations.

Conclusion

Ignoring a dental emergency is never a good idea. What starts as a minor issue can rapidly escalate into severe pain, infection, tooth loss, and even systemic health complications. Seeking prompt dental care not only preserves oral health but also protects overall well-being. Addressing issues early can prevent unnecessary pain, expensive treatments, and potentially life-threatening complications. Loss of teeth will result in a need for tooth extractions and the resultant space will need to be replaced by either dental implants or a dental bridge. In many cases the cause of the dental emergency is usually an infected root canal. If this is the case you will need root canal treatment and then a dental crown will be need to be added to replace the damaged part of the tooth. When faced with a dental emergency, immediate action is the best course of action for long-term health and quality of life.