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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of adults age 30 and over suffer from some form of gum disease. Caused by plaque buildup, gum disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. In its advanced stages, it is known as periodontal disease. If left untreated, it can result in the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth, causing teeth loss. It’s a preventable condition seen far too often by Drs. James and Mary Rose Twohig.

Research between periodontal disease and other diseases is ongoing. Some studies have indicated that gum disease is linked to other health conditions such as stroke or diabetes. Furthermore, while most factors that lead to periodontal disease are dependent on the individual (genetics, diet, poor oral hygiene) there is a possibility that periodontitis is capable of spreading from one person to another.

What the Research Says

Periodontitis is a gum infection, and the bacteria that cause the gums to become infected travels in saliva. Researches have used DNA coding techniques to track the path of infection from one person to another. In other words, kissing and close contact play a role in the transmission of the infection, so if you’re married to a spouse with periodontal disease, then your chances of having gum problems are slightly increased. Other studies have indicated that saliva contact is common in family settings through coughing, sneezing, and shared utensils and food. Children with parents who have periodontal disease are at a somewhat higher risk of developing it. At the same time, just because you exchange bacteria with your loved ones doesn’t mean you will get periodontal disease.

It is important to note that the scientific evidence supporting the spread of periodontal disease is limited and ongoing. The best way to prevent gum disease is through proper plaque control, which includes brushing, flossing, mouthwash, and twice a year trips for professional cleanings. Contact our Albuquerque office if you have any questions about periodontal disease.

When it comes to moms, it seems as if there isn’t anything they can’t do. From the very beginning, they love us unconditionally, become our first teachers, comfort us during our failures, and provide expert motherly advice when we have children of our own. Mothers are so important in our lives and with Mother’s Day right around the corner, we thought we’d take a moment to shine a spotlight on just how amazing they truly are.

This Mother’s Day is especially meaningful for our team since our assistant, Leslie, just welcomed her first baby into the world! We hope our newest mama has a wonderful Sunday enjoying this special time with baby Jayden.

Whatever your plans for this Sunday are, we encourage you to show the mothers in your life that you appreciate them. The Twohigs are looking forward to celebrating with a nice family brunch followed by an afternoon enjoying each other’s company.

Moms play a large part in who we become and although we don’t always have the chance to see them, we are always grateful for everything our mothers did for us growing up. Dr. Mary Rose admires her mom’s selflessness, generosity, and caring personality. Also, her fearlessness once persuaded her to stand up on the summer chairlift at Sandia Peak! Let us know what your favorite thing about your mom is next time you’re in the office.

We hope you have a wonderful weekend celebrating all of the wonderful moms out there. Have a great rest of the month and we hope to see you soon!

"Motherhood: All love begins and ends there." - Robert Browning

We would like to take this moment to thank all the great moms out there for being so great during their child’s visits to Twohig Dentistry. Whether it’s driving their kids to regularly scheduled appointments or for “being there” while their child is treatment, the moms who come to our office are all stellar individuals, so Drs. James and Mary Rose Twohig and our entire staff would like you to know that we appreciate you all!

Happy Mother’s Day and enjoy your special day!

Summer is almost here, which means a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories is just around the corner for our patients at Twohig Dentistry.

Everyone wants a glowing and radiant white smile when the sun comes around and we have a few reminders to keep your pearly whites healthy and beautiful over the summer! Try to stay away from drinks that will stain your teeth like coffee, soft drinks, or dark colored juices. Not only will drinks like this weaken your enamel but they will also darken that fabulous smile you're working on! Another tip is to try and focus on brushing your teeth; everyone knows that when busy schedules start picking up, getting a good brushing session in tends to take the backseat! A good tip for keeping your mouth safe from staining and other possible pitfalls is to rinse your mouth with water after any meal you can’t fully brush your teeth after. Your teeth, inside and out, will benefit!

And remember, whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just having fun in the backyard this summer, we want to hear all about it! Make sure to let us know what you’re up to below or on our Facebook page! We also encourage you to post any photos from your adventures!