Periodontal Disease

Are you familiar with the serious oral health condition known as periodontal disease? Gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis all refer to periodontal disease in various states.  This inflammatory condition causes a number of health complications, including swelling, bleeding and recession of the gum tissue; foul and resilient bad breath; as well as loosening of the teeth, shifting of previous dental work and bite misalignment.

While the effects of periodontal disease can be detrimental and costly to reverse, it’s very simple to prevent this condition. Follow these essential steps:

• Brush and floss at least twice a day with a soft bristled brush, fluoride toothpaste and waxed dental floss.


• Avoid all tobacco products and frequent heavy drinking.


• Reduce intake of foods and drinks that are high in sugar and acidity.


• Be diligent about making twice yearly dental checks and undergo professional cleanings.

If you’d like to learn more about gum disease prevention, you’re concerned that you may have periodontal disease or if you know you’re in need of treatment, we invite you here to Garrison Family Dentistry.    

Oral Hygiene and Heart Disease

Your oral hygiene affects more than just your smile. Now dentists and patients alike are gaining a better understating of how periodontal health problems that result from poor oral hygiene can have a serious impact on overall health and longevity. The reason for this is a problematic substance known as plaque.

Plaque forms between the teeth and around the gums when bacteria proliferation is not controlled through brushing, flossing and professional dental cleanings. This plaque buildup causes inflammation of the gums and frequently results in soreness and bleeding. As the plaque causing bacteria enter the bloodstream as a result of gum inflammation, there is a possibility that they can cause the same plaque buildup in the circulatory system. This increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and other serious issues, including heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

While experts are still exploring the link between oral and systemic health, we here at Garrison Family Dentistry encourage all of our patients to take care of their teeth and gums, because maintaining a beautiful, health smile could mean a longer, healthier life.  

Bad Breath

The topic of bad breath can be tough to confront, whether it’s yours or someone else’s. And, whether or not you know you have it, it’s always a good idea to take steps against bad breath—as they are often one in the same with good dental hygiene.

Most bad breath can be traced to a source in the oral cavity, whether it’s trapped food particles or potent beverage residue, bacterial and plaque buildup, unclean dental prosthetics, gum disease, or even cavities. Many of our patients here at Garrison Family Dentistry regularly ask us what they can do to prevent bad breath.  Besides completing all necessary dental work and consistently undergoing regular exams, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce bad breath on your own.

• Drink plenty of water: Drinking water helps flush away food and beverage residue. It also keeps your teeth and gums hydrated, which inhibits bacteria growth.


• Reduce intake of coffee and alcohol: Both substances can contribute to suborn breath and dehydration.


• Abstain from all tobacco products: Cigarettes, pipes and chewing tobacco all contribute to fouls breath and other periodontal issues that feed into the problem.


• Brush, floss and use alcohol-free mouthwash every day: Good oral hygiene controls bacteria and prevents a number of dental problems. Your at-home hygiene efforts are extremely important in keeping your smile beautiful and fresh.