Dr Keren Sperling, DMD MSc Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery.

12/08/2025

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Brushing your teeth at night is more important than most people realize. Emerging research in oral and cardiovascular health shows that skipping nighttime brushing can allow harmful bacteria to accumulate in the mouth. When these bacteria grow unchecked, they can trigger inflammation that travels through the bloodstream and affects the heart. This connection highlights how closely oral hygiene and heart health are linked.

During sleep, the body produces less saliva, which normally helps wash away bacteria. Without brushing, bacteria multiply quickly and can irritate the gums. Over time, this inflammation may enter the bloodstream and contribute to higher cardiovascular risk. Studies have connected poor oral hygiene with issues such as hardened arteries, increased inflammation markers, and greater strain on the heart. These changes often develop slowly, making nightly brushing an essential protective habit.

The good news is that this risk is highly preventable. Brushing for two minutes before bed removes plaque, reduces inflammation, and supports healthier blood flow. Flossing and regular dental care further protect the gums and lower the burden placed on the heart. These small habits strengthen the body’s natural defenses and support long term health.

Nighttime brushing is a simple step with powerful benefits. It supports not only your smile but also the health of your arteries and the strength of your heart. Caring for your mouth is caring for your entire body.

Your nightly routine has more impact than you think. Protecting your heart can begin with a toothbrush.

11/22/2025

The holiday season is just around the corner, let's get ready to make it ridiculously a@wesome.

11/11/2025

New Study that just came out of the press demonstrates another link betweeen untreated gum disease and Alzheimer’s

Poor health in one part of the body often leads to problems elsewhere.

10/25/2025

Using only the best dental materials at my practice thanks to ! Thank you!

10/16/2025

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A recent large-scale study has revealed a fascinating connection between the bacteria living in our mouths and how we feel mentally. Researchers found that people with a more diverse community of oral microbes were less likely to experience symptoms of depression. In contrast, those with reduced bacterial diversity showed a higher risk — suggesting that the balance of microorganisms in the mouth could play a hidden role in emotional wellbeing.

Scientists believe this link may be due to the way oral bacteria interact with the body’s immune and nervous systems. An imbalanced microbiome can trigger inflammation and alter the production of certain brain chemicals involved in mood regulation. This discovery strengthens the idea that the mouth and brain are deeply connected — not just through nerves, but through biological signals shaped by our everyday oral health.

📄Source:
🔎Relationship between depression and oral microbiome diversity; BMC Oral Health, 2025
PMID: 40474156
PMCID: PMC12143073
DOI: 10.1186/s12903-025-06274-x

10/12/2025

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Brushing with the non-dominant hand may look awkward—but it’s one of the simplest ways to engage your brain while caring for your oral health. Studies in neuroplasticity show that performing routine actions differently forces the brain to “wake up,” strengthening communication between both hemispheres. This cross-activation boosts coordination, focus, and adaptability—just like exercising a new muscle.

When the brain encounters an unfamiliar task, it forms new neural pathways to handle it. Over time, these small daily challenges improve cognitive resilience and keep gray matter active. The process is similar to mental “resistance training,” enhancing memory and attention while reducing the long-term risk of cognitive decline. Even subtle acts—switching brushing hands or changing brushing sequence—train the brain to stay alert and flexible.

09/23/2025

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Most people think dentists only look after teeth and gums. In reality, the mouth is often the first place where serious health conditions show up — sometimes even before symptoms appear elsewhere in the body. Diabetes is a prime example. Research shows that uncontrolled blood sugar weakens the immune system and reduces the body’s ability to fight infection. In the mouth, this can appear as persistent gum inflammation, slow healing after dental procedures, dry mouth, or frequent fungal infections. Dentists, who see the mouth in microscopic detail, are often the first to spot these red flags.

The connection between diabetes and oral health is two-way. Studies have confirmed that poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, while untreated gum disease can worsen blood sugar control — a vicious cycle that affects both the mouth and the body. In fact, the American Diabetes Association recognizes dentists as vital partners in early detection and long-term management of diabetes.

But diabetes is not the only systemic disease revealed in the mouth. Anemia may cause pale oral tissues or a burning tongue, liver disease can lead to yellowish gums, HIV may show as unusual mouth sores, and certain cancers can first be detected as non-healing ulcers. Even cardiovascular conditions have oral markers such as gum inflammation linked with higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

This is why a routine dental visit is far more than “just cleaning teeth.” Dentists can catch systemic diseases early, sometimes years before they are officially diagnosed. For patients, this means that maintaining regular dental check-ups is not only about protecting your smile — it’s about safeguarding your whole body health.

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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace a professional medical advice or diagnosis.

09/18/2025

🎉 Congratulations to Shane Carlson—our Summer Raffle Winner! 🎉

Shane, a dedicated history teacher in Fairfax County, surprised us with his big heart. When asked how he’ll use his gift card, he immediately said he’s putting it toward school supplies for his students. 📝📚

We’re so inspired by your generosity, Shane—what an amazing way to give back to your class. 👏👏

09/10/2025

🎃 Did you know that pumpkins are great for your oral health? 🦷
This fall favorite is more than just a decoration! Pumpkins are packed with Vitamin A for healthy gums, Vitamin C to fight infections, and magnesium to strengthen tooth enamel.
Enjoy your pumpkin season, but stick to healthier options like roasted pumpkin or pumpkin puree to get the benefits without the sugar!

09/04/2025

We are thrilled to announce that we have officially launched our new website Novaperio.com and would love to get your input and feedbacks.
Many thanks
Drs Sperling, Yu and the team.

Call Us Today (571) 234-1344 Contact Us Welcome to a Healthy, Beautiful Smile Dr. Keren Sperling & Dr. Erin Yu are Board-Certified Periodontists specializing in the treatment of Gum Disease and Dental Implant Surgery. Our mission is to provide each patient with personalized, state-of-the-art periodo...

08/29/2025

https://www.livescience.com/health/heart-circulation/gum-disease-treatment-slows-the-thickening-of-arteries-clinical-trial-shows

New trial results show that intense gum disease treatment reduces how much the carotid artery narrows in otherwise healthy individuals. This suggests oral health should be taken seriously as a contributing factor in cardiovascular disease.

08/24/2025

Tooth loss can lead to some serious complications, making restoration of the missing space crucial. A dental implant that supports a dentall crown is a great solution. Find out if you are a good candidate for a dental implant by contacting us .