Great dental health starts and ends at home. There are no two ways about it. True, whenever you come to our office for a dental checkup or any other service, it can improve your oral health and give you a beautiful smile. It’s what we specialize at doing. However, at-home care is just as important as coming in to our office for a checkup. From brushing and flossing to watching what you eat, it all adds up in deciding how healthy your mouth will be.
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Practice Great Dental Care Habits with the Horsham Family Dentist
September 16, 2015
Laser Periodontal Therapy in Philadelphia, PA
June 30, 2015
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that almost 50 percent of people over the age of 30 in the United States have periodontal disease, or gum disease. And in the 70 and older crowd, the percentage increases to more than 70 percent. And many of those people don’t even know they have this all too common infection. Dr. Gary Henkel and his team at Horsham Dental Elements want to help you avoid gum disease in the first place. That’s why we encourage all of our patients to schedule regular checkups at either our office in Horsham, PA, or Philadelphia, PA. Of course, if we find evidence of periodontal disease then treatment is imperative not only for your oral health, but your general health, too. For gum disease treatment in Philadelphia or Horsham, count on Horsham Dental Elements. (more…)
Protect Yourself From the Hidden Dangers of Gum Disease at Horsham Dental Elements
February 12, 2014
When you think of periodontal disease, what is the first thing that comes to mind? More than likely, you imagine swollen, reddened gums and bleeding when you brush, but did you know that advanced gum disease can also lead to a number of far more serious health concerns? At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia and Horsham, Dr. Gary Henkel wants you to know how important proper periodontal therapy is – not only for the health of your smile, but for your overall well being.
A Systemic Connection
When the overabundance of bacteria in infected gums enters the blood stream, it can travel throughout the body, wreaking silent havoc on otherwise healthy tissues and organs. Because many people suffering from gum disease aren’t even aware that they’re affected, they don’t think to make the connection between other health problems and the condition of their mouths. The following are some of the potentially life-threatening complications associated with untreated periodontal disease:
- Increased risk of heart attack (due to coronary artery disease)
- Higher chance of suffering a stroke
- Pulmonary hypertension
- High blood pressure
- Gastrointestinal problems (may become chronic)
- Links to pancreatic cancer
- Preterm birth and low birth weight in babies whose mothers had gum disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Fortunately, periodontal therapy and regular cleanings at Horsham Dental Center can substantially reduce the risk of these complications, even in patients whose oral condition is severe. The key to successful treatment of gum disease is catching the infection in its early stages and beginning treatment as soon as possible.
If you suspect that you may be suffering from periodontal disease and you’re ready to take the first step toward better health, contact us in Horsham, PA or Philadelphia, PA today. Dr. Henkel and his staff gladly serve patients from throughout Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, including Dresher, Hatboro, Springfield and more.
Protect Yourself against Gum Disease with Periodontal Therapy from Horsham Dental Elements
May 1, 2013
Did you know that three out of four Americans today suffer from some level of gum disease? That’s a large number, and one that we take seriously here at Horsham Dental Elements. While gum disease (also referred to as periodontal disease) exhibits few symptoms in its earliest stages, it can become serious over time, resulting in pain, inflammation, bone deterioration, and even tooth loss. Research has shown that gum disease can even contribute to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, strokes, and diabetes. At his Horsham and Philadelphia dental offices, Dr. Henkel wants to help you keep your smile healthy and happy over the years, and that includes ensuring that you’re protected against the threat of gum disease. Here are some common symptoms you can look for at home:
- Red, swollen, and/or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath that isn’t helped by mouthwash
- Gums that bleed while brushing or flossing
- A sudden change in the way your bite feels
- Loose or wobbly teeth
- Receding gums (the appearance of teeth that looks longer)
Of course, it’s important to remember that many cases of gum disease show no symptoms at all until they reach more advanced, destructive stages. That’s why attending regular check-ups with Dr. Henkel is so important! Our team will be able to find trickier signs of the disease and treat them earlier, saving you precious time and money. Using a soft-tissue laser, Dr. Henkel can perform periodontal therapy with greater comfort and ease than ever before!
Contact either our Horsham or Philadelphia office today to learn more about gum disease and periodontal therapy, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment. Dr. Henkel and his team are committed to providing patients with personalized care that puts their needs first. We also serve the areas of Montgomery, Buck County, and beyond!