Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral from my Dentist or Physician to see Dr. Scharf?
Many patients choose Dr. Scharf on their own. They have heard of him through word of mouth from a friend, family member or colleague. Many of our patients find out about us from the internet. We welcome all new patients and you don’t have to referred from a Dentist or Physician. If you have a dentist you don’t have to leave them to see Dr. Scharf. Dr. Scharf will work closely with your existing Dentist as a team to help you. This is much like a Cardiologist who works together with the primary care physician to help their patients.
What is Periodontal Disease?
It’s an infection of the gums. It starts out as plaque, an opaque film on the teeth that hardens to form calculus or tartar. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria which attacks the soft tissue around the gums. This early stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis. Symptoms include red swollen gums, bleeding, bad breath and, sometimes, an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Untreated, Gingivitis becomes Periodontitis. At this severe stage, bacteria destroys both the gums and the supporting bone structurel Pockets form where teeth are separated from the gums and surrounding bones. Left untreated, Periodontitis eventually results in tooth loss.
What's the best way to treat Periodontal Disease?
LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™ (LPT™) a patented new non-surgical laser alternative to gum surgery, is a less painful, less traumatic way to treat periodontal disease at any stage. It is ideal for patients who want conservative gum disease treatment.
What's different about LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™?
LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™ uses a special kind of laser called the PerioLase®, invented by two dentists in Cerritos, California. Dr. Robert Gregg and Dr. Delwin McCarthy spent years developing a better way to treat gum disease. The laser fiber, which is only about as wide as a couple of human hairs, is inserted between the gum tissue and your tooth, where it painlessly removes the noxious elements that cause gum disease.
How many treatments will I need?
LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™ doesn't take much time at all -- just two two-hour sessions versus eight to ten one-hour sessions with surgery. You don't have to worry about bleeding, stitches or post-treatment infection, because your gums haven't been cut.
What about recovery - will I be in pain or need to follow a special routine?
The sense of recovery is immediate, due to the laser’s ability to seal blood vessels, lymphatics and nerve endings. Of course, your tissue needs time to recover, regenerate and heal over the course of time, but after LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™, you can drive your car, go back to work, or do anything else you like.
I can see how good LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™ is - but is it very expensive and will my insurance cover it?
The good news is, LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™ is actually less expensive -- by about 20% -- than periodontal surgery. Dental costs vary around the country, so find a PerioLase® dentist in your area for exact figures. There is no special code for our therapy, so if your insurance company will reimburse for conventional surgery, they will reimburse for LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™.
My doctor said he’d have to pull my teeth because they are so loose and I don’t want to do that. Can you help?
We have been able to save a lot of teeth that other dentists wanted to extract. We have had great success in saving teeth that were to be extracted. There is nothing better than your own natural teeth. We can schedule a consultation for you.
I had x-rays a while ago. I don’t want to take them again. Can’t you look at those?
That depends on their age and quality. The conditions of your mouth change rapidly, and in order to accurately diagnose you, we will need current high quality x-rays. We take digital x-rays. These use up to 90% less radiation than conventional film based x-rays. We will only take the minimum necessary and only after you are examined to see exactly what is necessary.
How much more is the laser? I’ve been told that it is expensive.
The laser is comparable to the fee for conventional periodontal surgery. It is not more because it is new technology. Our fee has actually been less than some of the offices using the conventional technique.
How will I feel after the laser surgery?
You may experience some ache, throbbing or soreness. The doctor will prescribe some antibiotics and an anti-inflammatory to take care of any discomfort you may experience.
How many appointments will I need?
Usually two treatment visits and a couple of post-operative visits. The doctor will then prescribe visits with a hygienist every three months to keep up what he has started.
I only need a cleaning. That is all I have ever needed and had. I still be a patient
Yes we do cleanings in the office. We have an excellent prevention program and some patients come here just for that.
Will my insurance cover this?
We do not use any special codes because it is laser. We use the same codes that every office uses.
Do you offer financing?
We offer Care Credit Financing. It is a credit card for medical as well as dental services. It is easy to qualify for, and if you’d like, we can mail you an application. Many patients are surprised that they can have a very low monthly payment and treat their gum disease.
How do I know this will work? I had surgery 4 years ago, and I now need it again.
The doctor can answer all of your questions regarding treatment. LANAP gives better, longer-lasting results than conventional surgery. In fact, 98% of LASER PERIODONTAL THERAPY™ treated patients remain stable after five years, while only 5% reportedly remain stable after surgery. Dr. Scharf will examine your mouth thoroughly to determine if the laser is right for you. You can meet the doctor and staff and have a demonstration of the laser performed for you. He will discuss all your treatment options with you as well as the pros and cons of each option so that you can made the treatment decision that you feel is right for you. If you just want to see the laser without an examination just call and ask for a appointment for a “Laser Meet and Greet.”
Gum Surgery Alternative Long Island | LANAP Suffolk County
Thursday, December 25, 2008
People looking for an alternative to gum surgery should consider laser periodontal therapy with the Millennium Laser.
Dr.
To learn about gum disease treatment Long Island visit Dr. Scharf on the Web.
Dr.
To learn about gum disease treatment Long Island visit Dr. Scharf on the Web.
Gum Disease and Diabetes | Periodontist Long Island
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Periodontal disease and diabetes go hand in hand. Below s an article that appeared in December 2008 JAMA. If you want to learn how to treat gum disease Long Island conservatively and without cut and stitch surgery visit lilaserperio.com For good information on gum disease on Long Island Suffolk County read here.
Studies Probe Oral Health–Diabetes Link
Tracy Hampton, PhD
PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS HAVE
long known that the health of an individual’s mouth can have significant effects on the health of the rest
of the body. The link between periodontal disease and heart disease is one of the most commonly known associations, but researchers are finding many more medical reasons to maintain good oral hygiene.
Diabetes, the focus of much attention lately due to its rising incidence, appears to have a particularly close
relationship with conditions within the oral cavity. This relationship seems to go both ways—diabetes can
lead to unwanted changes in the gums and periodontal tissues, and periodontal diseases—including
gingivitis and severe periodontitis— can make it more difficult to control diabetes.
TWO-WAY CONNECTION
A number of recent studies have highlighted the give-and-take relationship between diabetes and oral health (Taylor GW and Borgnakke WS. Oral Dis. 2008;14[3]:191-203). Periodontal disease worsens diabetes when bacteria released into the bloodstream contribute to inflammation.
“There are significant data now to support that if a person has diabetes and they also have periodontal disease that is left untreated, it is very difficult to gain glycemic control of that patient,” said Maria Ryan, DDS, PhD, professor of oral biology and pathology, and director of clinical research at the School of Dental Medicine at Stony Brook University in New York.
For example, an analysis of data from the first National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES I) revealed that individuals with periodontal disease were twice as likely to develop diabetes as persons without periodontal disease (Demmer RT et al. Diabetes Care. 2008;31[7]:1373- 1379). Another prospective study, of Pima Indians, a population with a very high rate of type 2 diabetes, found that periodontal disease was a strong predictor of mortality from diabetic nephropathy (Saremi R et al. Diabetes Care. 2005;28[1]:27-32).
When tartar collects above the gumline, it becomes more difficult to thoroughly brush and clean between teeth. This can create conditions that lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth. Researchers suspect that periodontitis may adversely affect glycemic control because the proinflammatory cytokines produced by the infection could enter the bloodstream from the gingival tissues and lead to the development of insulin resistance.
“Periodontal infection affects the health of the teeth and gums, but the body’s response to that infection, we believe, is systemic,” said George Taylor, DrPH, DMD, associate professor of dentistry at the Schools of Dentistry and Public Health at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
These effects may be evident even before clinical diabetes is recognized. As Ryan noted, periodontal disease is associated with higher levels of insulin resistance, often a precursor of type 2 diabetes, as well as with higher levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which indicates suboptimal glycemic control of diabetes.
Diabetes can contribute to periodontal disease as well. “We also think that the body’s response to infection is exaggerated in people with diabetes—it makes them more susceptible to periodontal disease and makes it more severe,” said Taylor.
Studies looking at the effects of diabetes on periodontal disease have found that diabetes can weaken the connective tissue surrounding the gums and cause various adverse effects in the mouth. An analysis of NHANES III data indicates that women who develop gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy are at greater risk for developing periodontal disease than pregnant women who do not develop the condition (Novak KF et al. J Public Health Dent. 2006;66[3]:163-168).
Other oral problems associated with diabetes include salivary gland dysfunction, ulcers, infections, and dental caries. For example, lichen planus, a skin disorder that produces lesions in the mouth, is a condition associated with diabetes. Severe types of lichen planus involve painful ulcers that erode surface tissue. Diminished salivary flow and an increase in salivary glucose levels create an attractive environment for fungal infections such as thrush and oral candidiasis, which occurs more frequently among people with diabetes.
“There are a lot of oral complications of poorly controlled diabetes,” said Ryan. “If your blood glucose levels are high, it also gets into your saliva, which can increase cavities and increase risk of oral candidiasis or yeast infections,” she explained.
Therefore, proper care of the mouth may help patients with diabetes achieve better glycemic control, and appropriate management of diabetes may help prevent periodontal disease and other oral problems. However, while periodontal disease causes significant infection and inflammation of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, individuals often do not know they have the condition because it is usually painless. Therefore, Taylor and others are advocating for a greater awareness of periodontal disease, particularly among physicians whose patients may not regularly visit the dentist.
LINKING HEALTH CARE
Because diabetes can adversely affect oral health and poor oral health can worsen diabetic complications, dentists and physicians are beginning to realize the need to work together to ensure the health of their patients.
“For the first time ever, the American Diabetes Association has recommended to the physician that they ask when their patients last saw a dentist, and if they have not been seen by a dentist in the past year that they should recommend an oral evaluation,” said Ryan. “It’s also important that the dentist inform the physician of any oral infection or inflammation that’s being managed,” she added.
While it is unclear how many physicians and dentists communicate with each other, “as you start to see more information coming out on these connections, more of the medical community is becoming involved in oral care,” said Ryan. For example, Ryan and other dental researchers were invited to speak in June at the American Diabetes Association’s Annual Scientific Sessions in San Francisco, Calif. In addition, Taylor noted that the dentists’ and physicians’ perspectives are also both being represented in continuing education courses.
Health insurers are also realizing the value of linking dental and oral health. For example, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has created two referral forms, one from dentist to physician and the other from physician to dentist. The insurer also is incorporating preventive dental services into some medical plans.
However, many patients must deal with separate insurers when it comes to their dental and medical care. “Dentists are not reimbursed to screen for diabetes, so from the business side, they’d be spending time for services that cost them but that they’re not reimbursed for,” said Taylor. “The same happens with physicians,” he added.
Taylor noted that this situation highlights the need for more research on the benefits—including cost benefits—of linking medical and dental health. To that end, Taylor and others at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry are collaborating with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan on a research project quantifying the medical savings of good oral care in patients with diabetes.
“We’re looking at costs from submitted medical claims for diabetes patients— physician costs, facility costs, prescription costs—and analyzing what kind of dental services the patient received,” said Carl Stoel, DDS, a senior dental consultant at Blue Cross BlueShield of Michigan. The goal is to compare the medical costs of patients who receive little or no dental services with costs of those who receive routine dental care.
“So far, we’ve found that when diabetic patients are good dental patients, there’s a substantial savings onthe medical side,” Stoel noted.
Specifically, the study has found a cost savings in the range of 3% to 8% for individuals who were receiving regular dental care each year compared with those who were not recipients of any preventive or periodontal services. The cost savings that were seen related to the following diabetes related complications: peripheral vascular disease, coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. “I hope that our research will provide the evidence to show that it can make a difference if physicians identify patients at risk for periodontal disease,” said Taylor.
Because many adults have gingivitis or periodontitis, and the incidence of diabetes is increasing, researchers predict that the links between dental disease and diabetes will become even more evident in the years to come. Ongoing studies are anticipated to contribute additional information highlighting the importance of simultaneously treating periodontal disease and optimizing glycemic control to prevent diabetic complications and maintain oral health.
Oral Health Problems Linked to Diabetes
Patients with inadequate blood glucose control appear to develop periodontal disease
more often and more severely, and they lose more teeth than individuals who
have good control of their diabetes. According to the American Dental Association,
the most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are the
following:
• tooth decay
• periodontal disease
• salivary gland dysfunction
• fungal infections
• lichen planus and lichenoid reactions (inflammatory skin disease)
• infection and delayed healing
• taste impairment
Physicians can play a role in encouraging patients’ oral health by recommending
good maintenance of blood glucose levels, a well-balanced diet, good oral care
at home, and regular dental checkups. When glycemia has been difficult to control,
a physician might consider asking patients when they last saw their dentist
and whether periodontitis has been diagnosed.
MEDICAL NEWS & PERSPECTIVES
2472 JAMA, December 3, 2008—Vol 300, No. 21 (Reprinted) ©2008 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Studies Probe Oral Health–Diabetes Link
Tracy Hampton, PhD
PHYSICIANS AND DENTISTS HAVE
long known that the health of an individual’s mouth can have significant effects on the health of the rest
of the body. The link between periodontal disease and heart disease is one of the most commonly known associations, but researchers are finding many more medical reasons to maintain good oral hygiene.
Diabetes, the focus of much attention lately due to its rising incidence, appears to have a particularly close
relationship with conditions within the oral cavity. This relationship seems to go both ways—diabetes can
lead to unwanted changes in the gums and periodontal tissues, and periodontal diseases—including
gingivitis and severe periodontitis— can make it more difficult to control diabetes.
TWO-WAY CONNECTION
A number of recent studies have highlighted the give-and-take relationship between diabetes and oral health (Taylor GW and Borgnakke WS. Oral Dis. 2008;14[3]:191-203). Periodontal disease worsens diabetes when bacteria released into the bloodstream contribute to inflammation.
“There are significant data now to support that if a person has diabetes and they also have periodontal disease that is left untreated, it is very difficult to gain glycemic control of that patient,” said Maria Ryan, DDS, PhD, professor of oral biology and pathology, and director of clinical research at the School of Dental Medicine at Stony Brook University in New York.
For example, an analysis of data from the first National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES I) revealed that individuals with periodontal disease were twice as likely to develop diabetes as persons without periodontal disease (Demmer RT et al. Diabetes Care. 2008;31[7]:1373- 1379). Another prospective study, of Pima Indians, a population with a very high rate of type 2 diabetes, found that periodontal disease was a strong predictor of mortality from diabetic nephropathy (Saremi R et al. Diabetes Care. 2005;28[1]:27-32).
When tartar collects above the gumline, it becomes more difficult to thoroughly brush and clean between teeth. This can create conditions that lead to chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth. Researchers suspect that periodontitis may adversely affect glycemic control because the proinflammatory cytokines produced by the infection could enter the bloodstream from the gingival tissues and lead to the development of insulin resistance.
“Periodontal infection affects the health of the teeth and gums, but the body’s response to that infection, we believe, is systemic,” said George Taylor, DrPH, DMD, associate professor of dentistry at the Schools of Dentistry and Public Health at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
These effects may be evident even before clinical diabetes is recognized. As Ryan noted, periodontal disease is associated with higher levels of insulin resistance, often a precursor of type 2 diabetes, as well as with higher levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which indicates suboptimal glycemic control of diabetes.
Diabetes can contribute to periodontal disease as well. “We also think that the body’s response to infection is exaggerated in people with diabetes—it makes them more susceptible to periodontal disease and makes it more severe,” said Taylor.
Studies looking at the effects of diabetes on periodontal disease have found that diabetes can weaken the connective tissue surrounding the gums and cause various adverse effects in the mouth. An analysis of NHANES III data indicates that women who develop gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy are at greater risk for developing periodontal disease than pregnant women who do not develop the condition (Novak KF et al. J Public Health Dent. 2006;66[3]:163-168).
Other oral problems associated with diabetes include salivary gland dysfunction, ulcers, infections, and dental caries. For example, lichen planus, a skin disorder that produces lesions in the mouth, is a condition associated with diabetes. Severe types of lichen planus involve painful ulcers that erode surface tissue. Diminished salivary flow and an increase in salivary glucose levels create an attractive environment for fungal infections such as thrush and oral candidiasis, which occurs more frequently among people with diabetes.
“There are a lot of oral complications of poorly controlled diabetes,” said Ryan. “If your blood glucose levels are high, it also gets into your saliva, which can increase cavities and increase risk of oral candidiasis or yeast infections,” she explained.
Therefore, proper care of the mouth may help patients with diabetes achieve better glycemic control, and appropriate management of diabetes may help prevent periodontal disease and other oral problems. However, while periodontal disease causes significant infection and inflammation of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, individuals often do not know they have the condition because it is usually painless. Therefore, Taylor and others are advocating for a greater awareness of periodontal disease, particularly among physicians whose patients may not regularly visit the dentist.
LINKING HEALTH CARE
Because diabetes can adversely affect oral health and poor oral health can worsen diabetic complications, dentists and physicians are beginning to realize the need to work together to ensure the health of their patients.
“For the first time ever, the American Diabetes Association has recommended to the physician that they ask when their patients last saw a dentist, and if they have not been seen by a dentist in the past year that they should recommend an oral evaluation,” said Ryan. “It’s also important that the dentist inform the physician of any oral infection or inflammation that’s being managed,” she added.
While it is unclear how many physicians and dentists communicate with each other, “as you start to see more information coming out on these connections, more of the medical community is becoming involved in oral care,” said Ryan. For example, Ryan and other dental researchers were invited to speak in June at the American Diabetes Association’s Annual Scientific Sessions in San Francisco, Calif. In addition, Taylor noted that the dentists’ and physicians’ perspectives are also both being represented in continuing education courses.
Health insurers are also realizing the value of linking dental and oral health. For example, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has created two referral forms, one from dentist to physician and the other from physician to dentist. The insurer also is incorporating preventive dental services into some medical plans.
However, many patients must deal with separate insurers when it comes to their dental and medical care. “Dentists are not reimbursed to screen for diabetes, so from the business side, they’d be spending time for services that cost them but that they’re not reimbursed for,” said Taylor. “The same happens with physicians,” he added.
Taylor noted that this situation highlights the need for more research on the benefits—including cost benefits—of linking medical and dental health. To that end, Taylor and others at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry are collaborating with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan on a research project quantifying the medical savings of good oral care in patients with diabetes.
“We’re looking at costs from submitted medical claims for diabetes patients— physician costs, facility costs, prescription costs—and analyzing what kind of dental services the patient received,” said Carl Stoel, DDS, a senior dental consultant at Blue Cross BlueShield of Michigan. The goal is to compare the medical costs of patients who receive little or no dental services with costs of those who receive routine dental care.
“So far, we’ve found that when diabetic patients are good dental patients, there’s a substantial savings onthe medical side,” Stoel noted.
Specifically, the study has found a cost savings in the range of 3% to 8% for individuals who were receiving regular dental care each year compared with those who were not recipients of any preventive or periodontal services. The cost savings that were seen related to the following diabetes related complications: peripheral vascular disease, coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. “I hope that our research will provide the evidence to show that it can make a difference if physicians identify patients at risk for periodontal disease,” said Taylor.
Because many adults have gingivitis or periodontitis, and the incidence of diabetes is increasing, researchers predict that the links between dental disease and diabetes will become even more evident in the years to come. Ongoing studies are anticipated to contribute additional information highlighting the importance of simultaneously treating periodontal disease and optimizing glycemic control to prevent diabetic complications and maintain oral health.
Oral Health Problems Linked to Diabetes
Patients with inadequate blood glucose control appear to develop periodontal disease
more often and more severely, and they lose more teeth than individuals who
have good control of their diabetes. According to the American Dental Association,
the most common oral health problems associated with diabetes are the
following:
• tooth decay
• periodontal disease
• salivary gland dysfunction
• fungal infections
• lichen planus and lichenoid reactions (inflammatory skin disease)
• infection and delayed healing
• taste impairment
Physicians can play a role in encouraging patients’ oral health by recommending
good maintenance of blood glucose levels, a well-balanced diet, good oral care
at home, and regular dental checkups. When glycemia has been difficult to control,
a physician might consider asking patients when they last saw their dentist
and whether periodontitis has been diagnosed.
MEDICAL NEWS & PERSPECTIVES
2472 JAMA, December 3, 2008—Vol 300, No. 21 (Reprinted) ©2008 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Gum Laser Long Island | Periodontal Laser Long Island Suffolk Nassau
Friday, December 19, 2008
Losing your teeth is no fun. This video is funny excpet if it is you whose dentures are coming out at your wedding. Many people let their gum disease progress to tooth loss because they do not want gum surgery. The Periolase laser by Millenium can treat gum disease without cut and sew gum surgery. Dr. David Scharf, a Board Certified Periodontist on Long Island was the Island's first periodontist to embrace this technology and treat gum disease with a laser. For Laser periodontal information visit LIlaserperio.com.
Whoppi goldberg and her experience with gum disease | Periolase Long Island
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Whoppi Goldberg recently discussed her gum disease. She discussed on The View that the years of dental neglect have finally caught up with her. This does not have to happen to you. If you want to learn more about Long Island periodontal disease and gum disease treatment dental implants on Long Island and Suffolk County or treating gum disease with a periodontal laser on Long Island Suffolk Nassau and Queens follow these links. If you have questions about laser periodontal treatment visit the FAQ
Here is the Video
Here is the Video
You need to see a Periodontist Now What??
Friday, December 12, 2008
Your family dentist is recommending that you visit my office, or you have chosen to see me on your own so that the extent of your periodontitis or gum disease may be evaluated. I am a specialist in this area of dentistry and I am known as a periodontist.
Commonly known as Pyorrhea, periodontal disease is a progressive ailment suffered, to some extent, by nearly 90% of adults over age 35. It is the primary reason for loss of teeth by people over 30.
Periodontal disease begins when bacteria invade the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Once this bacterial invasion takes hold, the gums become puffy, bleed easily, and gradually lose their "grip" on the teeth they are supposed to protect.
Pockets for where the gum loses its grip. These pockets allow more bacteria to lodge under the gum line below the reach of a toothbrush. Some of the bacteria produce toxins that attack the bone which supports the teeth. Without treatment, teeth become loose and may need to be removed.
Because this destruction usually occurs beneath the gum line, the gum tissue may appear normal. This explains why many people discover too late that they have the disease. Only a thorough periodontal examination can reveal if hidden disease is present.
Dental Implant New York, Babylon Periodontal Services, Babylon Tooth Cleaning, Periodontist Long Island, Scharf DMD
Periodontal Disease Progression
What Can Be Done?
Appropriate treatment along with follow-up care by you and your family dentist can help to prevent recurrence of the disease.
Treatment usually begins with a thorough cleaning of the tooth roots and any gum pockets. The plaque and calculus are removed and tooth roots smoothed to eliminate any crevices that can harbor plaque.
This is followed by a daily home care program including careful brushing and flossing to remove plaque from under the gum margins.Dental Implant New York, Babylon Periodontal Services, Babylon Tooth Cleaning, Periodontist Long Island, Scharf DMD
Sometimes, the biting surfaces of the teeth may be adjusted to evenly distribute the chewing pressures throughout the mouth.
Other forms of treatment are necessary to help the gums reattach to the teeth for those patients who postpone periodontal care until the disease has progressed to an advanced state.
What happens on my First Visit?
Since your resistance to disease is affected by many factors, we begin with a medical history and dental history. This is followed by a thorough periodontal examination of your mouth.
At your second appointment, the findings and a recommended treatment plan will be reviewed with you. You may find it helpful to bring your spouse or a friend with you to this appointment. Many patients find such a person's opinion very valuable. In most cases no treatment is performed at this appointment.
Can I Delay Treatment to a More Convenient Time?
Delaying diagnosis and treatment means delaying the benefits that treatment provides. Immediate diagnosis and treatment prevents further destruction to the gum and bone tissue. Your ability to enjoy a wide variety of foods and to taste your food properly will be protected. Also, you can avoid suffering unnecessary pain caused by the disease.
With treatment, a patient can eliminate the unpleasant taste in the mouth often associated with the disease as well as the embarrassment of offensive breath. Your appearance will be protected through early treatment as successive loss of teeth often encourages lines, wrinkles and a "sunken" look due to the loss of tone in the facial muscles.
A patient's self-confidence and self-image is often renewed through an improved appearance. Early treatment is also less expensive.
Periodontal disease can be stopped. Your mouth can be restored to health. And, with help from your family dentist, the disease need not return.
Is it worth it to keep up with maintenance visits after Periodontal therapy?
You bet it is. Periodontal treatment is divided into two phases. The first phase or the active phase is designed to get your mouth healthy. The second phase or the maintenance phase is designed to keep your mouth healthy. Gum disease is s chronic disease. You can never be immune to it. But you can minimize the chances of it coming back. Studies have shown that periodontal treatment with maintenance is very effective at preserving ones teeth and dramatically reducing the incidence of tooth decay and gum disease recurrence. Studies have also shown that periodontal treatment without maintenance is of little value in the long run in preserving periodontal health.
To learn more visit us on the web at these sites
Dr. Scharfs overall web site. Learn all about perio.dental implants and lasers. Also be sure to read the patient letters section drscharf.com
To learn about dental implants on Long Island and Suffolk County visit drscharf.com , dentalimplantssuffolkcounty.com or dentalimplantsonlongisland.com
For GREAT information on treating gum disease with a laser visit
LILaserPerio.com or laserperio.blogspot.com
Best of all is a personal appointment with Dr. Scharf call 631-661-6633 to schedule yours today.
Commonly known as Pyorrhea, periodontal disease is a progressive ailment suffered, to some extent, by nearly 90% of adults over age 35. It is the primary reason for loss of teeth by people over 30.
Periodontal disease begins when bacteria invade the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Once this bacterial invasion takes hold, the gums become puffy, bleed easily, and gradually lose their "grip" on the teeth they are supposed to protect.
Pockets for where the gum loses its grip. These pockets allow more bacteria to lodge under the gum line below the reach of a toothbrush. Some of the bacteria produce toxins that attack the bone which supports the teeth. Without treatment, teeth become loose and may need to be removed.
Because this destruction usually occurs beneath the gum line, the gum tissue may appear normal. This explains why many people discover too late that they have the disease. Only a thorough periodontal examination can reveal if hidden disease is present.
Dental Implant New York, Babylon Periodontal Services, Babylon Tooth Cleaning, Periodontist Long Island, Scharf DMD
Periodontal Disease Progression
What Can Be Done?
Appropriate treatment along with follow-up care by you and your family dentist can help to prevent recurrence of the disease.
Treatment usually begins with a thorough cleaning of the tooth roots and any gum pockets. The plaque and calculus are removed and tooth roots smoothed to eliminate any crevices that can harbor plaque.
This is followed by a daily home care program including careful brushing and flossing to remove plaque from under the gum margins.Dental Implant New York, Babylon Periodontal Services, Babylon Tooth Cleaning, Periodontist Long Island, Scharf DMD
Sometimes, the biting surfaces of the teeth may be adjusted to evenly distribute the chewing pressures throughout the mouth.
Other forms of treatment are necessary to help the gums reattach to the teeth for those patients who postpone periodontal care until the disease has progressed to an advanced state.
What happens on my First Visit?
Since your resistance to disease is affected by many factors, we begin with a medical history and dental history. This is followed by a thorough periodontal examination of your mouth.
At your second appointment, the findings and a recommended treatment plan will be reviewed with you. You may find it helpful to bring your spouse or a friend with you to this appointment. Many patients find such a person's opinion very valuable. In most cases no treatment is performed at this appointment.
Can I Delay Treatment to a More Convenient Time?
Delaying diagnosis and treatment means delaying the benefits that treatment provides. Immediate diagnosis and treatment prevents further destruction to the gum and bone tissue. Your ability to enjoy a wide variety of foods and to taste your food properly will be protected. Also, you can avoid suffering unnecessary pain caused by the disease.
With treatment, a patient can eliminate the unpleasant taste in the mouth often associated with the disease as well as the embarrassment of offensive breath. Your appearance will be protected through early treatment as successive loss of teeth often encourages lines, wrinkles and a "sunken" look due to the loss of tone in the facial muscles.
A patient's self-confidence and self-image is often renewed through an improved appearance. Early treatment is also less expensive.
Periodontal disease can be stopped. Your mouth can be restored to health. And, with help from your family dentist, the disease need not return.
Is it worth it to keep up with maintenance visits after Periodontal therapy?
You bet it is. Periodontal treatment is divided into two phases. The first phase or the active phase is designed to get your mouth healthy. The second phase or the maintenance phase is designed to keep your mouth healthy. Gum disease is s chronic disease. You can never be immune to it. But you can minimize the chances of it coming back. Studies have shown that periodontal treatment with maintenance is very effective at preserving ones teeth and dramatically reducing the incidence of tooth decay and gum disease recurrence. Studies have also shown that periodontal treatment without maintenance is of little value in the long run in preserving periodontal health.
To learn more visit us on the web at these sites
Dr. Scharfs overall web site. Learn all about perio.dental implants and lasers. Also be sure to read the patient letters section drscharf.com
To learn about dental implants on Long Island and Suffolk County visit drscharf.com , dentalimplantssuffolkcounty.com or dentalimplantsonlongisland.com
For GREAT information on treating gum disease with a laser visit
LILaserPerio.com or laserperio.blogspot.com
Best of all is a personal appointment with Dr. Scharf call 631-661-6633 to schedule yours today.
Gum Laser Long Island | Periodontal Laser Long Island Suffolk Nassau County
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Watch this video t see how the periodontal laser works. Visit us on the web at lilaserperio.com or drscharf.com For an appointment call 631-661-6633
Researchers report periodontal disease independently predicts new onset diabetes
Monday, December 8, 2008
Controlling gum disease is important for your overall health. This does not have to mean conventional cut and sew gum surgery. visit LiLaserperio.com for more information.
Periodontal disease may be an independent predictor of incident Type 2 diabetes, according to a study by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. While diabetes has long been believed to be a risk factor for periodontal infections, this is the first study exploring whether the reverse might also be true, that is, if periodontal infections can contribute to the development of diabetes. The full study findings are published in the July 2008 issue of Diabetes Care. The Mailman School of Public Health researchers studied over 9,000 participants without diabetes from a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population, 817 of whom went on to develop diabetes. They then compared the risk of developing diabetes over the next 20 years between people with varying degrees of periodontal disease and found that individuals with elevated levels of periodontal disease were nearly twice as likely to become diabetic in that 20 year timeframe. These findings remained after extensive multivariable adjustment for potential confounders including, but not limited to, age, smoking, obesity, hypertension, and dietary patterns.
"These data add a new twist to the association and suggest that periodontal disease may be there before diabetes," said Ryan T. Demmer, PhD, MPH, associate research scientist in the Department of Epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health and lead author. "We found that over two decades of follow-up, individuals who had periodontal disease were more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes later in life when compared to individuals without periodontal disease."
Also of interest, the researchers found that those study participants who had lost all of their teeth were at intermediate risk for incident diabetes. "This could be suggestive that the people who lost all of their teeth had a history of infection at some point, but subsequently lost their teeth and removed the source of infection," noted Dr. Demmer. "This is particularly interesting as it supports previous research originating from The Oral Infections and Vascular Disease Epidemiology Study (INVEST) which has shown that individuals lacking teeth are at intermediate risk for cardiovascular disease" said Moïse Desvarieux, MD, PhD, director of INVEST, associate professor and Inserm Chair of Excellence in the Department of Epidemiology at the Mailman School and senior author of the paper.
The contributory role of periodontal disease in the development of Type 2 diabetes is potentially of public health importance because of the prevalence of treatable periodontal diseases in the population and the pervasiveness of diabetes-associated morbidity and mortality. However, observes Dr. Demmer, more studies are needed both to determine whether gum disease directly contributes to type 2 diabetes and, from there, that treating the dental problem can prevent diabetes. In addition to Dr. Desvarieux, David R. Jacobs Jr., PhD, professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Community Health at the University of Minnesota, also contributed to the research.
Source: Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health
Jobless Rate Soars to 6.7% in November -This will increase the prevalence of gum disease.
Friday, December 5, 2008
This headline from today's NY times is troubling. Many people are turning to laser periodontal treatment with periodontal laser because it is more conservative and less costly than periodontal surgery. To learn more about laser periodontal treatment on Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk New York visit www.lilaserperio.com
For a consultation with Dr. Scharf call (631)661-6633 You can also visit www.drscharf.com for general periodontal information.
Financial Stress Doubles Periodontal Disease Risk
CHICAGO – July 19, 1999 – High levels of financial stress and poor coping abilities increase twofold the likelihood of developing periodontal (gum) disease, according to a study released today in the July 1999 issue of the Journal of Periodontology. Study Abstract *
After accounting for other risk factors – such as age, gender, smoking, poor dental care and diabetes – those who reported high levels of financial strain and poor coping behaviors had higher levels of attachment loss and alveolar bone loss (signs of periodontal disease) than those with low levels of financial strain.
"Financial strain is a long-term, constant pressure," said Dr. Robert Genco, chair of the Oral Biology Department at The State University of New York at Buffalo, who carried out the studies with the periodontal research group at Buffalo and behavioral scientist Dr. Lisa Tedesco of the University of Michigan. "Our studies indicate that this ever-present stress and a lack of adequate coping skills could lead to altered habits, such as reduced oral hygiene or teeth grinding, as well as salivary changes and a weakening of the body's ability to fight infection."
However, people who dealt with their financial strain in an active and practical way (problem-focused) rather than with avoidance techniques (emotion-focused) had no more risk of severe periodontal disease than those without money problems.
"The good news is that many of the risk factors for periodontal disease, such as poor oral hygiene and infrequent professional care, can be controlled with minimal personal time and financial resources," said Dr. Robert Schoor, president of the American Academy of Periodontology. "And because eliminating periodontal disease also eliminates a risk factor for heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes complications, it is especially important for people to do what they can to protect their oral health."
Genco and his colleagues are following more than 1,400 people between the ages of 25 and 74 in the ongoing study, which is one of the first to examine the relationship of periodontal disease to stress, distress and coping in a large population.
Psychological tests were given to identify and weigh the causes of stress (children, spouse, financial strain, single life and work stress) in participants' daily lives and to measure the ability to cope with stress. To measure financial strain, study participants answered nine questions, including:
* At the present time, are you able to afford a home that is large enough?
* Do you have difficulty in meeting monthly payments of your family bills?
* How often is it that you don't have enough money to afford the kind of food, clothing, medical care, or leisure activities you and your family need or want?
Further studies are needed to help establish the time course of stress in respect to the onset and progression of periodontal disease and the mechanisms that explain the association. Intervention studies also are needed to determine the extent to which controlling stress will influence periodontal disease and its treatment.
Laser Periodontal Therapy Long Island | Periodontal Laser Long Island| Suffolk County Nassau County
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Periodontal Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis
This information is very interesting. Periodontal disease effects much more than just teeth. You can treat your gum disease with a laser. Surgery is not the only option. To learn more about Lanap, laser periodontal therapy, periodontal laser and the gum laser on Long Island, Suffolk County go to www.LILaserPerio.com
Or learn all about Dr. Scharf at www.drscharf.com .
To learn about dental implants on Long Island go to www.dentalimplantssuffolkcounty.com
Researchers Uncover Higher Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Study published in the Journal of Periodontology suggests impaired oral hygiene may only be part of the connection.
CHICAGO—June 5, 2008—Over 1.3 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic, inflammatory disease of the joints. RA is a disabling condition, and can lead to long-term joint damage resulting in persistent pain and loss of function in affected areas. A recent study published in the June issue of the Journal of Periodontology, the official publication of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), uncovered yet another potential side effect of RA. Researchers in Berlin, Germany discovered that patients with RA have a higher incidence of periodontal disease compared to healthy controls. Study Abstract *
For some patients, adverse RA symptoms may affect manual dexterity, which can make one’s daily routine quite difficult. One area that may be affected is oral hygiene which can ultimately lead to periodontal disease. However, these research findings indicate that poor oral hygiene alone did not account for the association between RA and gum disease, suggesting that other factors may play a role as well.
The study examined the oral health of 57 RA patients and 52 healthy controls. To determine oral hygiene status, each participant underwent a comprehensive oral examination including an assessment of plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation, both indicators of oral hygiene. Probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss, two markers of periodontal disease, were also measured. Researchers used questionnaires to gauge the subjects’ risk factors for periodontal disease.
The study findings indicated that RA patients were nearly eight times more likely to have periodontal disease compared to the control subjects. These findings accounted for demographic and lifestyle characteristics such as age, gender, education and tobacco use. Researchers then examined the extent to which poor oral hygiene was connected to the increased occurrence of gum disease in RA patients. The results showed that while oral hygiene was markedly a factor, it did not fully explain the association between the two diseases, suggesting that there may be other parameters responsible for the increased prevalence of gum disease in RA sufferers.
“With results suggesting that rheumatoid arthritis is associated with periodontal disease, it is easy to assume that an RA sufferer is perhaps unable to properly care for his or her teeth and gums due to the debilitating nature of the disease,” says Dr. Kenneth Kornman, editor of the Journal of the Periodontology. “However, this study implies that there are other potential factors involved. For instance, both RA and gum disease are systemic inflammatory disorders which may explain the connection between the two. Inflammation is already thought to link periodontal disease with other conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. We look forward to future research that may reveal the biological mechanisms that link these two important diseases.”
In an effort to best maintain oral health, RA patients are encouraged to brush and floss on a regular basis and see a dental professional twice a year. If gum disease develops, consulting a periodontist is an effective way to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
According to Dr. Susan Karabin, President of the AAP, maintaining the complete health of RA patients should be a collaborative effort. “It is critical that dental professionals and medical professionals work together when treating a patient living with rheumatoid arthritis. This partnership will assure that both the oral and overall health of these patients is paramount."
Or learn all about Dr. Scharf at www.drscharf.com .
To learn about dental implants on Long Island go to www.dentalimplantssuffolkcounty.com
Researchers Uncover Higher Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Study published in the Journal of Periodontology suggests impaired oral hygiene may only be part of the connection.
CHICAGO—June 5, 2008—Over 1.3 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic, inflammatory disease of the joints. RA is a disabling condition, and can lead to long-term joint damage resulting in persistent pain and loss of function in affected areas. A recent study published in the June issue of the Journal of Periodontology, the official publication of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), uncovered yet another potential side effect of RA. Researchers in Berlin, Germany discovered that patients with RA have a higher incidence of periodontal disease compared to healthy controls. Study Abstract *
For some patients, adverse RA symptoms may affect manual dexterity, which can make one’s daily routine quite difficult. One area that may be affected is oral hygiene which can ultimately lead to periodontal disease. However, these research findings indicate that poor oral hygiene alone did not account for the association between RA and gum disease, suggesting that other factors may play a role as well.
The study examined the oral health of 57 RA patients and 52 healthy controls. To determine oral hygiene status, each participant underwent a comprehensive oral examination including an assessment of plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation, both indicators of oral hygiene. Probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss, two markers of periodontal disease, were also measured. Researchers used questionnaires to gauge the subjects’ risk factors for periodontal disease.
The study findings indicated that RA patients were nearly eight times more likely to have periodontal disease compared to the control subjects. These findings accounted for demographic and lifestyle characteristics such as age, gender, education and tobacco use. Researchers then examined the extent to which poor oral hygiene was connected to the increased occurrence of gum disease in RA patients. The results showed that while oral hygiene was markedly a factor, it did not fully explain the association between the two diseases, suggesting that there may be other parameters responsible for the increased prevalence of gum disease in RA sufferers.
“With results suggesting that rheumatoid arthritis is associated with periodontal disease, it is easy to assume that an RA sufferer is perhaps unable to properly care for his or her teeth and gums due to the debilitating nature of the disease,” says Dr. Kenneth Kornman, editor of the Journal of the Periodontology. “However, this study implies that there are other potential factors involved. For instance, both RA and gum disease are systemic inflammatory disorders which may explain the connection between the two. Inflammation is already thought to link periodontal disease with other conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. We look forward to future research that may reveal the biological mechanisms that link these two important diseases.”
In an effort to best maintain oral health, RA patients are encouraged to brush and floss on a regular basis and see a dental professional twice a year. If gum disease develops, consulting a periodontist is an effective way to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
According to Dr. Susan Karabin, President of the AAP, maintaining the complete health of RA patients should be a collaborative effort. “It is critical that dental professionals and medical professionals work together when treating a patient living with rheumatoid arthritis. This partnership will assure that both the oral and overall health of these patients is paramount."
Inflammation and Gum Disease
CHICAGO—November 24, 2008—Brush after every meal. Floss daily. See your dental professional regularly. These instructions make sense coming from your dentist to help you sustain your oral health. But now not only dentists, but also many physicians are stressing the importance of maintaining oral health in an effort to keep the rest of the body healthy. Research has long suggested an association between gum disease and other health
Inflammation is the body’s instinctive reaction to fight off infection, guard against injury or shield against irritation. Inflammation is often characterized by swelling, redness, heat and pain around the affected area. While inflammation initially intends to heal the body, over time, chronic inflammation can lead to dysfunction of the infected tissues, and therefore more severe health complications.
According to Dr. Susan Karabin, Past President of the American Academy of
Periodontists, the dentists specially trained in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, hypothesize that this inflammatory response to bacteria in the mouth may be the cause behind the
“More research is needed to pinpoint the precise biological mechanisms responsible for the relationship between gum disease and other disease states,” says
To avoid gum disease, Dr. Karabin recommends comprehensive daily oral care, including regular brushing and flossing, and routine visits to the dentist. If gum disease develops, a consultation with a dental professional, such as a periodontist, can lead to effective treatment. Patients diagnosed with gum disease should also disclose all health conditions to his or her dental professional, and be sure to update other health care professionals on his or her periodontal health.
A recent supplement to the Journal of Periodontology highlighted current discussions between dental professionals and health care professionals on the role of oral inflammation in the progression of other disease states. As research continues to emerge that supports the mouth-body connection, the more vital it becomes that both dentists and physicians work together to ensure the most comprehensive wellbeing for their patients.
For more information on the role of inflammation in oral health, tips on
A copy of the JOP supplement Inflammation and Periodontal Diseases: A Reappraisal is available to the media by contacting the AAP’s Public Affairs Department at
About the AAP
The American Academy of Periodontology is an 8,000-member association of dental professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.Periodontal Disease And Pancreatic Cancer Linked
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Below is an article from medical news discussing the link between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer. Not that gum disease can be treated with a laser rather than surgery hopefully more people will avail themselves of the technology and get healthy!! To learn more about laser periodontal therapy visit LILASERPERIO.COM
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.; more than 30,000 Americans are expected to die from the disease this year. It is an extremely difficult cancer to treat and little is known about what causes it. One established risk factor in pancreatic cancer is cigarette smoking; other links have been made to obesity, diabetes type 2 and insulin resistance. In a new study, researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that periodontal disease was associated with an increased risk of cancer of the pancreas. The study will appear in the January 17, 2007 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
"Our study provides the first strong evidence that periodontal disease may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. This finding is of significance as it may provide some new insights into the mechanism of this highly fatal disease," said lead author Dominique Michaud, assistant professor of epidemiology at HSPH.
Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums that over time causes loss of bone that supports the teeth; tooth loss is a consequence of severe periodontal disease. Two previous studies had found a link between tooth loss or periodontitis and pancreatic cancer, but one consisted of all smokers and the other did not control for smoking in the analysis, and therefore no firm conclusions could be drawn from these studies.
Data for the new study came from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, which began in 1986 and includes 51,529 U.S. men working in the health professions. Participants respond to questionnaires about their health every two years. After analyzing the data, the researchers confirmed 216 cases of pancreatic cancer between 1986 and 2002; of those, 67 reported periodontal disease.
The results showed that, after adjusting for age, smoking, diabetes, body mass index and a number of other factors, men with periodontal disease had a 63% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer compared to those reporting no periodontal disease. "Most convincing was our finding that never-smokers had a two-fold increase in risk of pancreatic cancer," said Michaud.
One possible explanation for the results is that inflammation from periodontal disease may promote cancer of the pancreas. "Individuals with periodontal disease have elevated serum biomarkers of systemic inflammation, such as C-reactive protein, and these may somehow contribute to the promotion of cancer cells," she said.
Another explanation, according to Michaud, is that periodontal disease could lead to increased pancreatic carcinogenesis because individuals with periodontal disease have higher levels of oral bacteria and higher levels of nitrosamines, which are carcinogens, in their oral cavity. Prior studies have shown that nitrosamines and gastric acidity may play a role in pancreatic cancer.
Michaud, senior author Charles Fuchs, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Dana-Farber, and their colleagues believe that further studies should be done to investigate the role of inflammation from periodontal disease in pancreatic cancer. However, Michaud notes that the underlying mechanisms for this association are speculative at this point. "More research is needed both to confirm this finding in other populations and also to explore the role of inflammation in this particular cancer," she said.
----------------------------
Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.
----------------------------
This study was supported by grants from the National Cancer Institute.
"A Prospective Study of Periodontal Disease and Pancreatic Cancer in U.S. Male Health Professionals," Dominique S. Michaud, Kaumudi Joshipura, Edward Giovannucci, Charles S. Fuchs, JNCI, 2007; 99:1-5
Harvard School of Public Health is dedicated to advancing the public's health through learning, discovery, and communication. More than 300 faculty members are engaged in teaching and training the 900-plus student body in a broad spectrum of disciplines crucial to the health and well being of individuals and populations around the world. Programs and projects range from the molecular biology of AIDS vaccines to the epidemiology of cancer; from risk analysis to violence prevention; from maternal and children's health to quality of care measurement; from health care management to international health and human rights. For more information on the school visit: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.; more than 30,000 Americans are expected to die from the disease this year. It is an extremely difficult cancer to treat and little is known about what causes it. One established risk factor in pancreatic cancer is cigarette smoking; other links have been made to obesity, diabetes type 2 and insulin resistance. In a new study, researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found that periodontal disease was associated with an increased risk of cancer of the pancreas. The study will appear in the January 17, 2007 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
"Our study provides the first strong evidence that periodontal disease may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. This finding is of significance as it may provide some new insights into the mechanism of this highly fatal disease," said lead author Dominique Michaud, assistant professor of epidemiology at HSPH.
Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums that over time causes loss of bone that supports the teeth; tooth loss is a consequence of severe periodontal disease. Two previous studies had found a link between tooth loss or periodontitis and pancreatic cancer, but one consisted of all smokers and the other did not control for smoking in the analysis, and therefore no firm conclusions could be drawn from these studies.
Data for the new study came from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, which began in 1986 and includes 51,529 U.S. men working in the health professions. Participants respond to questionnaires about their health every two years. After analyzing the data, the researchers confirmed 216 cases of pancreatic cancer between 1986 and 2002; of those, 67 reported periodontal disease.
The results showed that, after adjusting for age, smoking, diabetes, body mass index and a number of other factors, men with periodontal disease had a 63% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer compared to those reporting no periodontal disease. "Most convincing was our finding that never-smokers had a two-fold increase in risk of pancreatic cancer," said Michaud.
One possible explanation for the results is that inflammation from periodontal disease may promote cancer of the pancreas. "Individuals with periodontal disease have elevated serum biomarkers of systemic inflammation, such as C-reactive protein, and these may somehow contribute to the promotion of cancer cells," she said.
Another explanation, according to Michaud, is that periodontal disease could lead to increased pancreatic carcinogenesis because individuals with periodontal disease have higher levels of oral bacteria and higher levels of nitrosamines, which are carcinogens, in their oral cavity. Prior studies have shown that nitrosamines and gastric acidity may play a role in pancreatic cancer.
Michaud, senior author Charles Fuchs, a gastrointestinal oncologist at Dana-Farber, and their colleagues believe that further studies should be done to investigate the role of inflammation from periodontal disease in pancreatic cancer. However, Michaud notes that the underlying mechanisms for this association are speculative at this point. "More research is needed both to confirm this finding in other populations and also to explore the role of inflammation in this particular cancer," she said.
----------------------------
Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release.
----------------------------
This study was supported by grants from the National Cancer Institute.
"A Prospective Study of Periodontal Disease and Pancreatic Cancer in U.S. Male Health Professionals," Dominique S. Michaud, Kaumudi Joshipura, Edward Giovannucci, Charles S. Fuchs, JNCI, 2007; 99:1-5
Harvard School of Public Health is dedicated to advancing the public's health through learning, discovery, and communication. More than 300 faculty members are engaged in teaching and training the 900-plus student body in a broad spectrum of disciplines crucial to the health and well being of individuals and populations around the world. Programs and projects range from the molecular biology of AIDS vaccines to the epidemiology of cancer; from risk analysis to violence prevention; from maternal and children's health to quality of care measurement; from health care management to international health and human rights. For more information on the school visit: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/
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