Our Blog - Archive for the ‘Dental Education’ Category

Diabetes and Dentistry: Any Relation?

August 18, 2011 in Dental Education

There is a ton of information out there about diabetes. Most people understand that it is a serious disease that can make a huge impact on someone’s life. Recognizing and diagnosing this disease as early as possible may make the difference in one’s future. Some of the early signs and symptoms of diabetes often show up in people’s mouths first.

Periodontal disease or “gum disease” is often associated with diabetes. There is a two edged sword with patients who have diabetes and periodontitis: both make each other worse. It is known that diabetes may make a person have a difficult time healing from infections. If a diabetic patient begins having gingivitis and early stages of periodontitis, their body’s immune system may not be able to heal in a proper way. The gum disease may get worse and cause major damage to their mouth. On the other edge of the sword is the impact on diabetes that gum disease plays. Periodontal infections that are not treated may make it more difficult for someone’s blood sugar levels to be controlled. Periodontitis is often a chronic disease that floods the body’s blood system with toxins from the bacteria involved in the infection. This presence of infection could make it very difficult to keep a proper blood-glucose balance in diabetic patients.

It is highly recommended to see your dentist for regular exams so that we can check for any signs and symptoms of gum disease. Before the fight against diabetes begins it must first be diagnosed. Seeing your dentist could be a first step toward a diagnosis of diabetes.

For more information about diabetes visit these sites:
American Diabetes Association
The American Dental Association

This Dentist Loves Candy!

October 26, 2010 in Dental Education

Dental offices around the nation are raiding their weapons closets,  drawing lines in the sand, and preparing for the great annual fight  against Halloween candy.  After the glorious battle is fought many offices will see their pillages of war pile up as candy is brought in for exchange for “incentives” or sometimes cash.  We salute those who have fought bravely but sadly year after year…..they lose.  That’s right, despite our best efforts the children of this country consume “tons” of candy every Halloween and they will have the cavities (battle scars) to show for it. (more…)

Oral Cancer – Why We Check

August 17, 2010 in Dental Education

There are very few things that can happen in your mouth that will threaten your life.  Dental infections and uncontrolled gum disease can make you very sick and lower your quality of life, but your body can heal with proper treatment and care.  Oral cancer, however, is a killer.  Studies have shown that the mortality rate of oral cancer is around 50%.  This number is high due in part to late diagnosis.  Cancer in the mouth is often found in the late stages when symptoms have arisen and the lesion is substantial size. (more…)

Why we Use Digital Radiographs

July 21, 2009 in Dental Education, Services

Every once and a while we have an opportunity to provide patients with a truly remarkable service. One that not only increases our ability to diagnose and treat dental conditions, but, equally important, allows us to do it in a more safe and effective manner. (more…)