How Smoking Affects Dental Pulp

We’re proud to say that patients with toothaches can get reliable treatment in comfort at the Holmdel dental office of Dr. Dipika Shah. Root canals remove potentially life-threatening infected material while preserving the natural structure of a tooth. But new research shows that smokers have particular problems with dental pulp infections, and we want our patients to be aware of why.

Antimicrobial peptides are one of the foundations of the immune system. They are molecules that kill bacteria by latching onto them and are found in healthy dental pulp. When a tooth is injured or an infection reaches the pulp, the pulp becomes inflamed, allowing peptides to more easily pass through tissue layers. But in smokers, the immune system does not function as well. Smokers have elevated levels of periodontal disease, and a recent study indicated that their dental pulp lacks antimicrobial peptides.

Without antimicrobial peptides, it is much harder for pulp to resist infections and the infections are likelier to recur. In the course of a root canal treatment, we can use antibacterial medication to fight infection in pulp we can’t remove, but complications are less likely if the patient is not a smoker. Some good news is that the researchers found that a few people’s immune systems recovered after they quit smoking.

Dr. Dipika Shah, Master in the Academy of General Dentistry, operates at 723 N Beers St, Suite 2F, Holmdel, New Jersey, 07733-1512. To schedule an appointment, call 732-264-8180 or visit Dentist NJ and fill out a contact form.

 

Causes of Bleeding Gums

If your gums are bleeding, you need the help of Dr. Dipika Shah. Although a great many people see blood when they floss or spit out their toothpaste, this is only because gum disease is so widespread. Our office can help you get inflammation under control, but for treatment to last, you need to know what causes it.

Tartar and plaque often accumulate near the gum line. The gum pockets are a great place for bacteria to grow and many people struggle to floss as deep as they should. As plaque builds up, toxins produced by bacterias and food irritates the surrounding tissue. This is most often what causes bleeding.

Regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush with a proper technique or use of a good electric brush, good daily flossing can help control infection of gum but you still need professional help from dental office to take out hardened tartar and plaque. Gum infections are likelier to occur in pregnant women, due to hormonal changes, and in people suffering from dry mouth, and people on blood thinner medications are also likelier to have bleeding gums.

Dr. Dipika Shah, Master in the Academy of General Dentistry, operates at 723 N Beers St, Suite 2F, Holmdel, New Jersey, 07733-1512. To schedule an appointment, call 732-264-8180 or visit DentistNJ.com and fill out a contact form.