Who doesn’t love giving—and getting!—hugs and kisses, especially at the holidays?
But at this holly, jolly time of year, you don’t want halitosis, or bad breath, ruining any close contact, especially kisses!

Everyone can have bad breath occasionally from food or tobacco. But chronic bad breath could be more serious, and is often a symptom of gum diseases (also called periodontal disease) such as gingivitis or periodontitis. If you have chronic halitosis, and other symptoms like bleeding gums or loose teeth, here is some information about the most common diseases of the gums, and how Dr. Tobin can treat gum disease in our Garden City dental office.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of your gums that can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation has invaded the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. Periodontal disease can also impact more than your teeth. In a scientific study that analyzed nearly 2 million dental patients, there was clear evidence of the connection between gum disease and diabetes. The bacteria and inflammation from gum disease has also been linked to other serious health conditions such as cardiovascular problems, strokes, and respiratory disease.

If your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, if they’re red or sore to the touch, don’t delay in having them examined. When caught early, the solutions for periodontal disease can be as simple as more regular brushing and flossing.

Dr. Nancy Tobin uses the most advanced technologies for treating periodontal diseases. Her treatments are gentle and painless, including the Cavitron and Piezo Scaler, which use high-frequency ultrasonic waves to clear bacteria and clean your teeth and gums. That sounds much better than surgery, doesn’t it?

If you live in Garden City, Mineola, Floral Park, and Rockville Centre, please call Tobin Dental Care in Garden City at 516.747.2535 as soon as possible if you suspect you have any of the symptoms of gum disease.