Academy Dental Care in Albuquerque has been recognized as one of the most successful practices in diagnosing periodontal disease, and we’ve adopted the most advanced treatment technology to ensure the health of our patients. OralDNA® works to identify, treat, and monitor diseases by using a patient’s saliva for salivary diagnostics. From this, we are able to create a customized plan for treating periodontal patients, gauge the success of their treatments, and revise home care regimens.
“Salivary diagnostics enables us to treat the patient’s whole health by tying their periodontal condition to their medical history and treating the specific bacteria that could be contributing to multiple health conditions.”, Dr. Chelsea Gonzales explained in an interview with OralDNA®. She goes on to describe the many benefits of salivary diagnostics and how its use has greatly impacted her patients’ oral and overall health.
“We can identify and treat the specific bacteria that may be contributing to a patient’s chronic diseases like periodontal disease or heart disease,” but that first, “…the two most important things to consider are medical history and the presence of periodontal inflammation.” When compared to the traditional treatments, Gonzales suggests that salivary diagnostics are proven to be more successful because they target the root of the problem. Rather than just removing the plaque, OralDNA® is able to identify the pathogens causing the infection and focus on medicating that specific area.
When the bacteria found in plaque begins to build up, microorganisms grow on the teeth and in the gums. This causes gums to turn red, inflamed, and oftentimes leads to bleeding when brushing teeth. It’s referred to as gingivitis, the early stage of periodontitis, and is found in over half of Americans over the age of 30. Teeth remain in place and no irreversible bone or tissue damage has yet occurred, but without proper treatment, gingivitis can advance into periodontitis, causing extreme damage to not only your oral health, but overall health and well-being.
In the later stages of periodontitis, the root of the tooth becomes exposed and spaces begin to fill with bacteria, leading to further infection. Eventually, pockets deepen, more gums and tissue are destroyed, and teeth become so exposed that they are no longer anchored in place – which makes gum disease the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. In recent years, it has also been linked to other health conditions and diseases such as cardiac health and diabetes, making gum disease awareness, education, and treatment, more paramout than ever.
Because gum disease is typically painless, many are unaware they have the condition. Don’t wait until you experience the excruciating and detrimental symptoms! Take control of your health and schedule an appointment with the experts at Academy Dental Care to ensure healthy gums, healthy teeth, and a healthier you!
