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Hygiene
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The American Dental Association records that over 85% of the American population has gum disease (Periodontitis) and are not aware and not seeking treatment for it!
For a new patient joining our practice, we are happy to begin with a Comprehensive Exam and cleaning. Our hygienist will do a periodontal evaluation to determine that the patient's gum tissues are in good health, and will then proceed with a general cleaning (prophylaxis). However, if we find that plaque and tartar are accumulating under the gum line, it is possible that Dr. Settle may recommend periodontal therapy. We would like to assist you in understanding the difference between Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis). Please see the photos below . . .
Please bear in mind, it is your right as a consumer and our duty, legally, to inform you of your current dental health. If we fail to properly check your gums, it would be a disservice to you. If we simply clean your teeth with Periodontitis present, it would be as if we were ignoring the problem. The treatment of Periodontitis is a more involved therapy, to eliminate and/or slow or halt the progression of the disease.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO STAYING ABREAST OF CURRENT RESEARCH IN DENTISTRY. IN THE INTEREST OF GOOD HEALTH, WE WANT YOU TO BE AWARE OF THE LATEST RESEARCH REGARDING PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND HEART DISEASE AND OTHER RELATED HEALTH ISSUES.
Published by the American Heart Association
The Journal
STROKE (1997, 28:1724)
Chronic infections such as dental infections or chronic bronchitis may more than double the risk of stroke. The findings are consistent with earlier reports of a link between chronic infections and artherosclerosis. A study reported at the University of North Carolina showed increased risk of heart disease and stroke in people with periodontal disease.
(Beck, Garcia, Heiss, Offenbacher, Vokonas: Journal of Periodontology 67:1123, 1996)
People with heart disease of primary cardiac event are now being referred to their dentists to “get their mouth cleaned up. Patients with frequent bouts of bronchitis in proceeding two years have a three times greater risk for stroke and TIAS. In addition, those with poor dental status, linked to gum disease, were at a 2.6 times greater risk for stroke or TIAS.
General dentists are reporting:
"Before, we could tell people to brush and floss
or you might lose your teeth.
But now we are saying to brush and floss, it
COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!"
. . . Please, help us help you . . .
Call to schedule your appointment today!
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Progress of Periodontal Disease
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Normal, Healthy Gingiva (Gums)
Healthy gums; periodental ligament and bone anchor teeth firmly in place.
Gingivitis
Plaque and its byproducts irritate the gums, making them tender, inflamed and likely to bleed. Unremoved, plaque hardens into calculus (tartar).
Periodontitis
In time, as plaque and calculus build up along the gum line, plaque's bacteria begin to breakdown the connection between the supporting soft tissues and the tooth. As the disease progresses, bacteria begin to attack the bone tissue as well.
Advanced Periodontitis
The gums can recede as more bone and the periodontal ligament are destroyed. Teeth - even teeth without decay - may become loose and need to be extracted.
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Sterilization
We are committed to staying current with the latest in infection control, sterilization guidelines, and equipment. When you visit our office, you can feel confident that your health and the health of your family are protected.
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