gum disease

YES! Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States.

At McCarl Dental Group we care about your oral health and also your overall health! We recently had a question regarding a YouTube video that one of our patients requested that we post on our website. Unfortunately, this patient was diagnosed with oral cancer. Fortunately his treatment was very successful. The cancer was located at the base of the tongue beyond visible range and was not visible upon oral examination. It was diagnosed by an ear nose and throat doctor. The question asked  what percentage of people who dip everyday will get mouth cancer? We researched and were not able to find those specific statistics. Here is the information we found.

Wishing you a healthy and blessed New Year!

Harmful health effects of smokeless tobacco include:

• Mouth, tongue and throat cancer
• Cancer in the esophagus
• Stomach cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke
• Addiction to nicotine
• Leukoplakia (white sores in the mouth that can become cancer)
• Receding gums (gums slowly shrink from around the teeth)
• Bone loss around the roots of the teeth
• Abrasion (scratching and wearing down) of teeth
• Tooth loss
• Stained teeth
• Bad breath

Smokeless tobacco products are a major source of cancer-causing nitrosamines and a known cause of human cancer. They increase the risk of developing cancer of the mouth and throat, esophagus and pancreas. (Source: Cancer Prevention & Early Detection Facts and Figures 2010)

Smokeless tobacco products are considered less lethal but are NOT a safe alternative to smoking. Use of tobacco in any form harms health and can also lead to nicotine addiction.

Results from a large American Cancer Society study showed that people who switched from cigarettes to snuff or chewing tobacco had higher death rates from heart disease, stroke, cancer of the mouth and lung, and all causes of death combined than former smokers who stopped using ALL tobacco products.

The American Cancer Society, the World Health Organization, the National Cancer Institute and the U.S. National Toxicology Program have all issued strong reports warning on the adverse health effects of smokeless tobacco.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States for both men and women. (Source: Cancer Facts & Figures 2011)

Lung cancer is the most preventable form of cancer death in our society. (Source: Cancer Facts & Figures 2011)

Lung cancer estimates for 2011 (Source: Cancer Facts & Figures 2011):

New cases of lung cancer: 221,130

Males: 115,060

Females: 106,070

Deaths from lung cancer: 156,940

Males: 85,600

Females: 71,340

Greenbelt and Millersville Maryland Dental Hygienists at McCarl Dental Group

At McCarl Dental Group we recommend that all patients see one of our registered dental hygienists for routine prophylactic cleaning appointments at least every 6 months. For patients with gum disease we may recommend visits every 3-4 months. Our hygienists work with each one of our patients to ensure that they maintain optimum gum health, which means keeping their teeth healthier for years to come. With extensive training in the removal of tartar and plaque from the tooth surfaces and below the gums, dental hygienists play an active role in fighting periodontal disease.

Many people believe that if they do not have problems with their teeth, they do not need to have their teeth cleaned by a hygienist and examined by a dentist. This can mean a couple of years quickly turns into 5, 10, or even 15 before some people have another dental exam. Unfortunately, for most of these people, waiting longer between visits means unhealthy gums and sometimes very rampant tooth decay.

When plaque is missed from irregular flossing, it hardens and becomes tartar under the gumline. This contributes significantly to the destruction of gum and bone attachment levels around your teeth. Eventually this uncontrolled gum disease, correctly known as periodontal disease, can lead to tooth loss.  Through routine cleaning appointments and screenings, patients can help prevent conditions including periodontal disease and advanced tooth decay.

The hygienists at McCarl Dental Group work with each individual patient to help them create an oral hygiene regimen that will work best for their own needs. Fifty percent of tooth and gum health comes from what you’re doing at home. Because every person’s mouth is different, so are his or her home care needs. What works for one person may not work for the next.

Hygienists don’t just clean teeth or check for suspicious areas of decay. They also screen for oral cancer and precancerous lesions of the mouth, head and neck.  Many medical conditions and diseases of the human body first manifest themselves as symptoms that are seen in the mouth. Because people are more likely to see their hygienists for routine cleanings as opposed to annual physical exams with their doctor, many conditions are first found in the dental office. Many Dental Hygienists also offer nutritional counseling because of the vital connection between overall health and oral health.

McCarl Dental Group hygienists help promote and safeguard your overall health and wellness. If you’re behind on your dental hygienist visits, it’s better to be late than never. Contact us today to schedule your biannual cleaning appointment. You can reach our Millersville, Maryland dental office at (410) 987- 8800 or our Greenbelt, Maryland dental office at (310) 474-4144. You may also request an appointment online at www.McCarlDental.com.

Let’s face the facts. Like 99% of the American population, you probably don’t floss your teeth as often as you should. The majority of dental patients actually confess that they don’t even floss at all unless there is something stuck between their teeth.

How Often Should You Floss Your Teeth?
The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between teeth DAILY with dental floss or an interdental cleaner.

Why Should You Floss Your Teeth?

Unlike brushing, flossing reaches between teeth and helps treat and prevent conditions like tooth decay,  gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis is an early and reversible form of periodontal or gum disease.

Dentists, hygienists and product manufacturers have been trying to find a way to motivate patients to floss for years. The answer has finally come in a method that patients of McCarl Dental Group will both enjoy, comply with, and that is as effective as traditional flossing: the water flosser.

For years, products such as the Waterpik were recommended to patients with hard to reach areas around bridges, crowns, implants or braces. Recent studies show this method of plaque removal even more effective than flossing. (1) Many of our patients say that the water flosser is easier to use than dental floss.

The Waterpik Water Flosser is an oral irrigation device that delivers a steady stream of water and can flush out food particles, bacteria and plaque from under the gums and between teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach.

For those who find flossing difficult, now a gentle stream of water can do the job. The added convenience of water flossers can also increase patient compliance in maintaining their oral hygiene. The result will be healthier gums, teeth and maintenance of oral appliances such as braces, bridges and implants.

You can purchase the Water Flosser at Bed Bath and Beyond and Target. Oral irrigation devices such as the Waterpik Water Flosser are available in various designs. The lower end models usually deliver one steady stream of water, while higher ends allow more customization in the pressure through manual controls. The water reservoir may be filled with a comfortable temperature of water to ensure patient comfort.

While it may take a little getting used to, many people prefer water flossers to traditional floss because of the convenience and ease of use. For patients with limited dexterity, flossing can be challenging. The Waterpik Water Flosser is easy to use.  Dr. Clayton McCarl is currently using the Water Flosser for hard to reach areas before he flosses.

McCarl Dental Group wants to encourage and promote oral health for each of our patients. Part of that responsibility includes making you aware of successful products that can help achieve improved oral health. If you’re looking for a dentist, we would love to invite you to our office. Our Millersville dental office is conveniently located near Severna Park, Annapolis, Crofton, Crownsville, Gambrills, Glen Burnie and Severn, Maryland. Our Greenbelt Dental Office is close to College Park, Lanham, Seabrook, Bowie, New Carrollton, Laurel, Glen Dale, Bowie, Mitchellville, University Park and Hyattsville, Maryland . To schedule a preventative care appointment with us, call our Millersville, MD office at (410) 987-8800 or our Greenbelt dental office location at (310) 474-4144. You may also schedule a dental appointment with a dentist at McCarl Dental Group online at www.McCarlDental.com.

Reference:
1. Rosema NA, Hennequin-Hoenderdos NL, Berchier CE, Slot DE, Lyle DM, van der Weijden GA.; The effect of different interdental cleaning devices on gingival bleeding.;
J Int Acad Periodontol. 2011 Jan;13(1):2-10.

In the last few years, many new products have become  important in dentistry. One of these products allowing advances in dental care is fluoride varnish. Fluoride varnish is quickly replacing dental fluoride foams and gels.

Advantages of Dental Fluoride Varnish

Varnish is extremely effective for the prevention of tooth decay.(i) Studies show that the varnish prolongs the contact time between fluoride and the tooth surface, which helps reduce the rate of tooth decay.(ii)

At McCarl Dental Group in Millersville, MD and Greenbelt, MD we provide fluoride varnish to pediatric patients up to the age of 14. We also perform this treatment on all patients who are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Patients with braces have an increased risk of decay, and fluoride varnish is shown to be extremely effective for this category of patients. For adult patients who have extreme sensitivity areas, or are prone to decay, this is an optional therapy they can request. Unfortunately, insurance companies typically only provide fluoride coverage to patients up to the age of 14, but many adult patients feel the small out of pocket cost is well worthwhile. For those adults who do not request fluoride varnish, our office offers a fluoride rinse or foam tray at no additional cost.

Fluoride varnish is simply applied to the tooth by using a small brush, similar to a paintbrush. This thick material is painted onto your tooth by dental hygienist, and the patient is advised to not brush their teeth for at least 6 hours. Unlike traditional fluoride treatments, there is no restriction on eating or drinking, so patients are able to leave the office and have a snack or meal immediately after their appointment. Following a fluoride varnish application, there may be a slight yellowish color and thin film on the tooth. This is the actual varnish clinging to your tooth, and it is only temporary.

For our patients who have a more sensitive gag reflex, varnishes are great, because there is no need to hold a large tray in the mouth. While traditional foam trays are worn for about a minute, varnish is applied even more quickly. It’s easier than brushing your teeth, because so little product needs to be applied.

To schedule a dental appointment, dental hygiene visit or dental exam call our Millersville Maryland dental office at 410-987-8800. Or, for a Dentist in Greenbelt Maryland, call 301-474-4144. You may also request a dental appointment online at www.mccarldental.com.

(i)Quock RL, Warren-Morris DP.: Fluoride varnish: the top choice for professionally applied fluoride.; J Mich Dent Assoc. 2011 May;93(5):42-8.

(ii) Lam A, Chu CH.: Caries management with fluoride varnish of children in U.S.; N Y State Dent J. 2011 Jun-Jul;77(4):38-42.

An important measure of periodontal (gum) health is the depth of the pocket around each tooth. The top of gum tissue does not attach directly to teeth. There is a space of pocket between the gum and the tooth before it attaches. This space or pocket deepens in the presence of gum disease. To monitor and evaluate gum health, the pocket depth must be measured, recorded, and monitored over time.

Many diseases are not obvious without testing. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar levels must be measured in order to be evaluated. Similarly, periodontal disease needs to be measured by pocket depth around each tooth.

The pocket depths are compared to see if gum health is improving, maintaining, or getting worse. Gum disease is sometimes called “the sneak thief of teeth.” You may not know you have it until it is too late. People may assume their gums are fine because “they don’t hurt,” but if the pockets haven’t been measured, you can’t be for sure. The dentists and hygienists at McCarl Dental Group work to monitor these levels closely for each patient in our Greenbelt and Millersville, MD dental offices.

In a healthy mouth, a pocket can be anywhere from 1-3 millimeters deep. To measure a pocket we use a periodontal probe. The probe allows us to measure in millimeters from the top of the pocket to the bottom of the pocket. The bottom of the pocket is the area where the tissue is connected through ligaments to the root.
This measurement is taken very gently and causes no damage to the delicate gum tissue.

When a tooth has periodontal disease, this tissue becomes detached past 3mm deep. Under 3mm deep a pocket is considered healthy, while 4mm or deeper it is considered unhealthy. When connective tissue loss occurs, it is also a sign that there is bone loss. By our hygienists and dentists measuring the periodontal pockets regularly, we can monitor bone and tissue attachment levels. These measurements should be taken once or twice a year, or more often in patients with active or previous periodontal disease.

The recordings taken during periodontal probing are recorded onto a chart. There are 6 measurements taken for each tooth, 3 on the facial side and 3 on the tongue side. By monitoring the recordings against each other, the dentists and hygienists at our dental offices in Millersville and Greenbelt, MD are able to make sure no areas become progressively worse, or note improvement where treatment has occurred.

When several deep pockets are evident we will recommend scaling and root planing, or “deep cleaning.” The deep cleaning is more involved in that the focus is to remove the tartar from all pocket areas, since that is the bacteria’s “hiding place.”  Not even diligent brushing and flossing can remove the tartar from a deep pocket. If left alone, these infections can cause more bone loss and tissue detachment, resulting in tooth loss.

The Dentists at McCarl Dental Group in Millersville, MD and Greenbelt, MD, we believe in early intervention and prevention. By recording periodontal measurements at regular recall appointments, it can help us to detect small problems before they turn into large ones. We will work together with our patients to help them understand where these periodontal pockets are, and what we can do to help them heal. If you’re looking for a dentist in the Greenbelt or Millersville, MD area, please feel free to call and schedule an appointment. Greenbelt dental office -  301-474-4144; Millersville, Maryland dental office 410-987-8800. We’re available 6 days a week.   To learn more about periodontal charting and other dental topics, please visit the McCarl Dental website at www.mccarldental.com.

We all know that gum can be bad for you. Sugar containing gum actually increases our risk for tooth decay. Cavities that develop from chronic gum chewing often are not very noticeable in plain view. A small hole will be evident on the tooth enamel, but when an x-ray is taken, half of the tooth is “bombed out” on the inside. This type of decay is unique to gum chewing. Even when excellent oral hygiene habits are in place, frequent gum chewing continues to cause decay of the teeth. (i)

Sugary chewing gum can increase your risk of tooth decay.

Now there are now chewing gums available that have the sweetener Xylitol. Xylitol containing gums have actually been shown to reduce tooth decay and encourage enamel remineralization.(ii) Further studies show that chewing a gum with Xylitol encourages healthier gums, reduces bleeding, and decreases harmful bacteria.(iii) For patients who are actively fighting gum disease and recurrent tooth decay, chewing these gums may be beneficial to their oral health.

According to the American Dental Association, chewing gum may also be beneficial for patients with dry mouth. Medications and certain medical conditions are a common cause of dry mouth. Radiation therapy may also be the culprit, as it can destroy the salivary glands within the mouth. When there is no saliva to cleanse the teeth on a normal basis, decay becomes rampant. Xylitol containing gum promotes salivary production and can help decrease the decay rate. Dry mouth can also be very uncomfortable, and salivary supplements that don’t damage your teeth are extremely important. While the old school of thought might have been to suck on a peppermint, we know this is not the healthiest option for our teeth. Within just 5 to 10 minutes of chewing gum, saliva production will peak.(iv) Chewing a Xylitol gum may be a good option to decrease the dental consequences and discomfort of dry mouth.

Research indicates that chewing  gum containing Xylitol can be beneficial to dental health. Check the labels of different brands of chewing gum. You’ll be able to see on the front side of the package, usually in the corner, whether or not Xylitol is an ingredient. Brands like Orbit and Trident use this sweetener in most all of their products. If you or your children enjoy chewing gum, the American Dental Association recommends that you choose gum that contains Xylitol.

It is important to have routine dental hygiene cleaning and preventative oral health care. Please call McCarl Dental Group, dentists in Greenbelt MD 301-474-4144 or Millersville MD 410-987-8800 to schedule an appointment. Visit McCarl Dental Group at http://www.mccarldental.com/dental-hygiene-periodontal-therapy-dental-services.php

References:

(i) Paice EM, Vowles RW, West NX, Hooper SM.; The erosive effects of saliva following chewing gum on enamel and dentine: an ex vivo study.; Br Dent J. 2011 Feb 12;210(3):E3.

(ii) Chewing gum and dental health. Literature review. ; Rev Belge Med Dent (1984). 1992;47(3):67-92.

(iii) Campus G, Cagetti MG, Cocco F, Sale S, Sacco G, Strohmenger L, Lingström P.; Effect of a Sugar-Free Chewing Gum Containing Magnolia Bark Extract on Different Variables Related to Caries and Gingivitis: A Randomized Controlled Intervention Trial.; Caries Res. 2011 Aug 3;45(4):393-399

(iv) Olsson H, Spak CJ, Axéll T.; The effect of a chewing gum on salivary secretion, oral mucosal friction, and the feeling of dry mouth in xerostomic patients.; Acta Odontol Scand. 1991 Oct;49(5):273-9.

Advances in Dental Hygiene

We have seven very talented dental hygienists who work at our dental offices in Greenbelt and Millersville Maryland.

Greenbelt and Millersville Maryland Dental Hygienists at McCarl Dental Group

Recent years have shown tremendous strides in the advancement of technology in the area of dental hygiene. The Dental Hygienists at McCarl Dental Group stay current with the latest advancements so they are able to deliver the highest quality dental hygiene care.  Several of our hygienists have worked at McCarl Dental Group for more than 20 years! Our patients always give fabulous reviews of their dental hygiene care. Because prevention and early intervention is key at your professional dental cleanings with the hygienists at McCarl Dental Group, we want to take a moment to share some of the technological steps that preventative dentistry is making.

• Desensitization

For patients who suffer from tooth sensitivity that does not require restorative dental treatment, desensitizing agents are now more effective than ever.  McCarl Dental Hygienists can apply topical gels that make your teeth “pain free.” Fluoride varnish helps block the pain receptors of the hypersensitive tooth surface. Our dentists can also provide prescription strength fluoride toothpaste for everyday use. This allows patients to eat and drink without associated tooth sensitivity and helps ensure dental comfort between dental appointments.

• Digital Radiography

In the beginning of dental radiography, x-ray films had to be dip processed in 3 separate tanks with chemicals that allowed the films to be viewed. This development process took 20 minutes. Electric processors shortened this time dramatically, usually developing an x-ray within 5-7 minutes after being placed in the machine. In the 21^st century with digital radiography, the images are ready for viewing in an instant. McCarl Dental Group uses digital radiography machines for several types of x-rays. This shortens the time it takes to view x-rays and decreases radiation exposure to our patients. While the exposure levels with traditional films were already safe, digital radiography lowers exposure even more. The detail and resolution of digital radiographs is of extremely high quality, and the files can be sent electronically to other dental professionals or insurance companies.

• Local and Systemic Delivered Medications

For patients who suffer from periodontal disease, in addition to procedures such as Scaling and Root Planing, local delivery of medication to areas with advanced bone loss can improve healing as well as encourage tissue attachment and bone regeneration. (1) These medications are placed below the gum surface into the infected pocket area, and are delivered through fibers, gels, chips, ointments and microspheres.

Recent studies also show that Statin drugs, commonly used to control blood cholesterol, are suggested to improve tissue attachment on the root surfaces of teeth, and encourage bone growth. (2) Azithromycin, another orally delivered medication, has also been shown to improve the success in Scaling and Root Planing therapy. (3)

At McCarl Dental Group  we strive to provide state of the art, quality preventative, restorative and cosmetic dental care to each of our patients. To find out more about the advanced dental care we offer in Millersville, MD and Greenbelt, MD, please call us at (410) 987-8800 or (301) 474-4144.

References:

1. Pradeep, A., Thorat, M.: Clinical Effect of Subgingivally Delivered Simvastatin in the Treatment of Patients with Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Perio 81: 214- 222, 2010.

2. Fajardo, M., Rocha, M., Sanchez-Marin, F., Espinosa-Chavez, E.: Effect of Atorvastatin on Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Pilot Study. J Clin Perio 37: 1016-1022, 2010

3. Rotundo, R., Nieri, M., Francesco, D., Mervelt, J., Bonaccini, D., Esposito, M., Pini-Prato, G.: Lack of Adjunctive Benefit of Er:YAG Laser in Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment: A Randomized Split-Mouth Clinical Trial. J Clin Perio. 37: 526-533, 2010

Each year about 800,000 new cases of diabetes are diagnosed.  Even more frightening- the Center for Disease Control reported a 70% increase in diabetes diagnosed in 30-39 year olds from 1990-1998.  In diabetics, the blood glucose level is higher than normal due to a lack of insulin.  Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, the organ that breaks down sugar in our bodies.  Diabetics are typically unable to produce enough insulin or use the body’s natural insulin.  Heart disease, blindness, organ failure, and poor circulation are medical concerns associated with high glucose levels.  However, diabetes also increases the risk of gum disease, which can affect your overall health.

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis.  Gingivitis occurs when normal bacteria in the mouth are not removed adequately. This causes the gums to become inflamed or swollen. Bacteria grow in plaque, a sticky film that everyone can remove with proper brushing and flossing.  If the plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar (also known as calculus).  When teeth are not cleaned properly, gums start to bleed while brushing and flossing, a sign of gingivitis. Only a professional cleaning by your dental hygienist or dentist and can remove tartar or calculus.  The dentists and dental hygienists at McCarl Dental Group emphasize preventive oral hygiene. Every patient has unique oral health needs. Some people are more prone to plaque accumulation and need to have their teeth cleaned professionally by a dental hygienist more often than the usually recommended time interval of every six months.

If gingivitis is ignored, more severe gum disease called periodontitis may develop.  Periodontitis causes pockets to form between your teeth and gums.  The gums pull away from your teeth allowing more germs to enter.  The resulting infection may cause bone loss around your teeth which often leads to loose teeth and ultimately results in losing teeth. Missing teeth cause additional health problems.

Research indicates a strong correlation between gum disease and diabetes. Diabetics are more prone to bacterial infections and cannot fight bacterial infections as well as a patient with normal glucose levels.  Common symptoms of oral infections include swelling, pus, pain while chewing or general pain in the mouth, oral sensitivity to temperature and sweetness, and white or red patches within the mouth.

New, studies emphasize the importance of oral health and suggest that gum disease may actually contribute to diabetes.  Serious oral infections like periodontitis can cause unbalanced glucose levels which increase the risk factors for diabetes.

Preventing oral health problems in diabetics is first controlled by regulating diabetes.  Keep a healthy glucose level.  Secondly, brush and floss your teeth properly at least twice daily.  Finally, maintain regular check-ups with your dentist.  Make sure to keep your dentist and hygienist updated on your health condition, medications, and glucose levels.  Dental procedures are best performed when blood sugar is carefully controlled.  Diabetics are typically slower healers, so regulating diabetes allows for a faster healing time.  Remember to eat before heading to the dental office and stick to your normal meal plans afterwards in order to maintain regular blood sugar levels.  If you cannot chew well after the visit, plan an alternative way to sustain your calorie intake.  If you have any concerns about how your diabetes will affect your upcoming dental visit, please contact McCarl Dental Group serving Anne Arundel County and Prince Georges County Maryland to plan your strategy for a healthy smile.

The health of your gums is intricately connected to the health of your teeth. We use the phrase, “brush your teeth,” but that really means “brush your teeth and the crevices of your gums.”

One of the most common causes of gum problems is insufficient flossing. If you do not floss your teeth, you never fully clean between your teeth. With time, lack of flossing leads to bleeding gums and sometimes more severe problems like advanced gum disease and loss of teeth. Gum neglect is one extreme of the spectrum.

The other extreme is when you brush your gums really hard. In this situation, gums actually start to recede up and away from their teeth. Receding gums leave sensitive parts of the tooth exposed and can lead to discomfort and later infection.

A misconception about dental care is that you need to brush really hard. This is not true. In fact, it’s often better for your gums and teeth if you use a soft brush and gentle touch. The plaque and bacteria that build up on your teeth are removed more effectively with a soft, gentle scrub. If you brush too hard, you are risking gum recession and you are not cleaning your teeth as efficiently as you could be.

Here are a few tips if you are a “gum scrubber” who tends to brush too hard:
•  Lighten up! The first step is to admit that you brush too hard. Practice brushing with a gentle touch.  You can also ask your spouse or a family member to watch you brush and remind you if you start brushing too hard.
•  Find a new angle. Reduce the force of the brush against your gums and make sure that your toothbrush bristles touch your gums at a 45-degree angle.
•  Power up with an electric toothbrush. If you just can’t seem to brush more softly, get a machine to do it for you! Purchase a battery-powered toothbrush, like a Philips Sonicare or OralB electric  toothbrush. Your McCarl dentists and dental hygienists are happy to make a recommendation based on your brushing preferences. Electric toothbrushes give your teeth and gums a steady, consistent and gentle scrubbing, just like the professional teeth cleaning at your dentist’s office.
•  Try Disclosing tablets. Disclosing tablets are chewable pills or liquid that stains the plaque red.  Then you simply brush and floss until the red is gone. You do not need to brush longer or harder than it takes to get the red off your teeth.
•  Soothe your sensitive teeth with special toothpaste. If you have receding gums caused by excessive brushing, your dentist can prescribe an analgesic toothpaste with special ingredients to reduce discomfort and promote healthier gums.  You may also try Sensodyne or Colgate Pro Health toothpaste.

You can usually repair the harm that has been done to your gums from the pressure of excessive brushing or lack of flossing. At the very least, you can prevent receding gums from getting worse. Ask your dentist at McCarl Dental Group for advice – that’s why we’re here!

How much do you know about Periodontal Disease?

1.  What systemic diseases are related to periodontal disease?
a)    heart disease
b)    diabetes
c)    premature birth
d)    rheumatoid arthritis
e)    dementia
f)    all of the above

2. Flossing and gum health have been linked to longer healthier lives. True or False

3. What percentage of Americans over the age of 35 has some form of periodontal disease?
a) 25%
b) 50%
c) 100%
d) 75%

4. Patients who want to maintain a healthy smile should…
a) visit their dentist at least twice a year
b) brush with fluoride toothpaste twice daily
c) floss teeth daily
d) all of the above

5. Match the dental term with the correct definition
a) gingivitis _____
b) periodontal disease _____
c) plaque _____

1) chronic bacterial infection that causes gum tissue to pull away from the teeth forming pockets and
resulting in damage to the bone supporting the teeth and ultimately the loss of teeth
2) sticky film with bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth and gums
3) mild inflammation of the gums often characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums which can
be prevented by regularly brushing and flossing teeth

Contest Rules
1) Must be a Facebook Fan of www.Facebook.com/McCarlDental (Just click “LIKE”)
2) Submit quiz answers to McCarl Dental Group via email to mccarldentalgroup@gmail.com
3) The winner will be selected randomly from Facebook Fans with correct answers.
4) Employees are not eligible for prize money but their families are!
5) Winner must pick up the check from our Millersville or Greenbelt Dental Office.
6) Drawing will be held on July 1, 2010.

Answers are in our Taste of the Bay Cover Story!