Modern Technology In The Dental Office
May 13, 2014
I was recently asked why I am so concerned about bringing modern dental technology into my dental office.
The easiest way to explain how I feel is to draw a comparison with hospitals. If you or a family member goes to a hospital for a surgery, which hospital are you going to choose. The hospital with a fifteen year old surgery center or the hospital with the state-of-the-art equipment, such as CAT Scan, Robotics, Heart catheters and the list goes on.
A dental office is no different! We are working on the human body, your body. Dentists are responsible for making sure you can eat, show a youthful smile and keep your teeth disease free for as long as you live. Another important duty is to eliminate any infection in your mouth that can affect your heart, other organs or exacerbate diabetes and other health conditions.
Modern dental technology is dramatically improving a patient’s experience in a dental office. Certain advancements have also vastly improved the accuracy of the dental work being placed in a patients mouth.
We all have one life and one body. Let’s take care of it the best we can!
Gum Disease Can Damage Your Body
May 2, 2014
Everyday in the dental office I discuss with patients the danger of cavities, crooked teeth, jaw joint problems and other dental issues. The one dental condition that should worry people the most is gum disease. Over the last few years research has suggested that gum disease may contribute to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, pregnancy complications and osteoporosis. The link between gum disease and heart disease has been well documented for years. Research has found that diseased gums release significantly higher levels of bacterial inflammatory components, such as endotoxins, into the bloodstream. These harmful components in the blood could travel to other organs, such as the heart and cause damage.
Research suggests that there is a relationship between gum disease and diabetes. Gum disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar. A very important fact about gum disease is that other than bleeding gums, gum disease has few symptoms and rarely causes discomfort. The gums do not hurt until it is too late. To help guard against gum disease, visit your dentist regularly for cleanings, x-rays, and a thorough evaluation of your gums.