Dr. Cynthia Layport - Patient Center - Tigard, OR - From the American Academy of Periodontology Beyond the Brush: Five Ways to

From the American Academy of Periodontology
Beyond the Brush: Five Ways to Promote Healthy Teeth & Gums

According to the AAP, the following tips may help sustain healthy teeth and gums while also helping you live an overall healthy lifestyle:

•	Eat and drink up. It is well known that eating a balanced diet leads to proper nutrition and helps keep the body running effectively. Studies published in the Journal of Periodontology (JOP) have also shown that certain foods can promote teeth and gum health. Foods containing omega-3, calcium, vitamin D and even honey have all been shown to reduce the incidence or severity of periodontal disease.
•	Hit the gym. Frequent exercise is a recognized way to avoid being overweight, and it may ultimately reduce your risk of periodontal disease. In a study published in the Journal of Periodontology, researchers found that subjects who maintained a healthy weight and had high levels of physical fitness had a lower incidence of severe periodontitis than those that did not exercise.
•	Stress less. Stress can lead to a variety of health complications, including periodontal disease. Research published in the JOP showed a relationship between stress and periodontal disease. Increased levels of cortisol, which the body releases when experiencing stress, can intensify the destruction of the gums and bone due to periodontal disease. In addition, another JOP study indicated that people experiencing stress are more likely to neglect their oral hygiene.

For the full article from the American Academy of Periodontology Newsroom, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Periodontal Surgery hurt?

Only local anesthetic ("novocaine") is necessary to perform periodontal surgeries. During the visit you should feel nothing once the area has been numbed. When the "novocaine" wears off, there will be mild to moderate discomfort. Medication will be prescribed to control any discomfort you might experience.

Antibiotics or antibacterial rinses also may be prescribed. If you take your medicine as directed and follow your periodontist's instructions, you probably will experience only minor discomfort. Most patients resume their normal routines a few days after surgery.

Nervous or fearful patients could benefit from use of Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) or from oral sedation using Valium or Halcion. We want you to be as comfortable as possible throughout your treatment.

Will I be able to speak and eat normally after surgery?

You should be able to speak normally after the anesthetic has worn off. It is important to eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet after surgery. You will need to avoid chewing in the surgical area for at least one week. Following some types of periodontal surgery, the teeth may be more sensitive to hot and cold. This will diminish considerably during the first few weeks after surgery, and may be treated with a simple in-office procedure, and home-use products.

When will I need to return to my periodontist?

Usually patients return in one week to remove any stitches and to cleanse the surgical area. Additional follow-up appointments will be required to evaluate your healing response and to review proper oral hygiene procedures.

Will I ever need surgery again?

Proper oral hygiene procedures at home and regular professional care are key factors in achieving a successful long-term result. Periodontal diseases are chronic diseases that require constant and careful attention.

Read More About Preventing Periodontal Disease

Office Location

1122 NE Bowser Blvd.
Portland, OR 97124

Opening Hours

Mon - Sat: 8am - 5pm
Sunday: CLOSED

Phone

503-620-1117

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