Obesity and Gum Disease by Periodontist on Long Island

Obesity, Young Adults and Gum Disease

Young adults are very concerned with how they look and try very hard to maintain their image. Did you know that there is more reasons than simply cosmetic to be concerned with obesity? Did you know that it has been proven that there is a link between obesity and gum disease in young adults?

Not only does obesity put a person's health at risk simply because of the strains that the extra weight puts on the body and the implications of the diet, but it also puts young adults at greater risk for periodontal disease. While there is not a link in other age groups, research has shown that in young adults ages 18 – 34 obesity puts you at much higher risk to have gum disease. This will mean that not only will you worry about negative health consequences of being overweight, but you will worry about the negative health consequences of gum disease. Gum disease can lead to a wide array of health problems if left untreated including heart attack, stroke, osteoporosis, lung disease and more. Gum disease can also lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.

Long Island periodontist Dr. Scharf consults patients with concerns linked to this and other problems every day. Prevention would include a daily dental regimen of brushing twice daily, flossing once per day and regular six month check ups. Controlling ones weight is also recommended as it is believed that the diet that young adults succumb to including carbonated beverages help to soften the teeth and encourages a build up of bacterial plaque on teeth. Once the plaque builds up and the gums become infected you are at greater risk.

There is no reason to put off treatment for periodontal disease. Understandably, most people are afraid of dental surgery.periodo Patients on Long Island referred to Dr. Scharf have been happy to know that their gum disease can be treated with a laser rather than surgery. Done as an in office procedure, this conservative procedure is a very popular option.

To learn more on this and other concerns about gum disease and treatment please visit our site