Who needs to be screened for periodontal disease? You do! Periodontal disease is associated with more than 50 systemic diseases, yet this overlooked risk factor is the one of the easiest to screen for.
A basic periodontal exam consists of a dentist measuring the height of your gum tissue using a small ruler. This simple measurement can identify periodontal disease, and when treated, can save you from systemic inflammation and damage to your body’s organs. Periodontal disease can even cause a cascade of negative pathways that damage DNA, resulting in a higher risk of cancer. The importance of treatment cannot be over emphasized.
Effective treatment of the disease is ongoing in a person’s life, making it important to understand how to manage and treat, so it does not increase your chances of a negative health event.
There are now tests available through specialized labs that analyze plaque samples and can identify which species of bacteria a patient has present in periodontal pockets. Lab results will help identify medication specific to each bacterial species and give recommendations on how to best treat.
Not all bacteria are created equal. Some bacterial species are associated with a higher risk of a negative health outcome. Not all mouths are the same, so a specialized treatment plan is needed for each person, addressing their specific risk factors. Please be sure to get screened for periodontal disease yearly by your dentist. It could save your life.
Sage Dental Wellness
4011 Donald St.
541/636.2936
