Oral DNA Testing in Treating Periodontal Disease - by Phoenix Dentist, Dr. Alan Ferguson

Oral DNA Testing (Salivary Diagnostics)

It is an exciting time we live in!  Information and technological breakthroughs have helped us,  the dental community, to rethink how we treat patients who struggle with periodontal disease.

With just a 30 second swish saliva sample that we then send off to laboratories for testing, we can now prescribe the exact antibiotics specific for the bacteria found in active periodontal pockets! Bacteria will always be present in the oral environment, but now we have some power over which ones aren't invited!

With the same saliva sample we can determine if our patients are predisposed to genetically having periodontal issues.  This information takes the mystery out of why some individuals struggle with recurring episodes and allows us to choose the best hygiene protocols.  For more information on salivary diagnostic testing offered, contact the office of Dr. Ferguson at (602) 242-5445.

Oral Health Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease

Oral Health Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease

Oral Hygiene – Lack of oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, encourages bacterial buildup and plaque formation.

Poorly Contoured Restorations – Poorly contoured restorations (fillings or crowns) that provide traps for debris and plaque can also contribute to periodontitis.

Tooth Structure – Abnormal tooth structure can increase the risk of periodontal disease.

Wisdom Teeth – Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, can be a major breeding ground for the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Periodontitis can occur in wisdom teeth that have broken through the gum as well as teeth that are impacted (buried). Adolescents and young adults with wisdom teeth should have Alan Ferguson D.D.S., P.C. or a dentist check for signs of periodontal disease.

Soft Tissue Diode Laser Treatment

One of the most effective tools our dental hygiene team has incorporated is the use of the soft tissue diode laser. During a 2-4 minute laser bacterial reduction, the bacterial count can be reduced from “millions” of bacteria to “hundreds”. This allows for quick profound healing of inflammation. It reduces the amount of bacteria that can enter the blood stream and travel to the brain, heart, liver, etc. The laser is also used during scaling and root planning treatment of periodontal disease.

Inflammation Links Obesity and Gum Disease

Blood on your toothbrush can be a warning sign of gum disease. And, if you are overweight, it can indicate other serious health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.

After reviewing previous research on gum disease and obesity, they found an association between both health problems – chronic inflammation,  described in a recent article in the Journal of General Dentistry, “Obesity and periodontitis: a link.”

Periodontitis, commonly called gum disease (and gingivitis in its milder form), affects nearly half the U.S. population over age 30, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. The disease ignites an inflammatory response as the body begins to fight off bacteria present in the dental plaque. If not treated, the inflammation eventually erodes the jawbone and loosens teeth. In severe cases, patients lose their teeth. The bacteria can also cause ulcers in the pocket surrounding the involved teeth and eventually enter the blood and settle in other parts of the body.

Being overweight can compound the problem, the researchers warn. Belly fat contains about 50 bioactive substances, which can set off inflammatory responses that reduce the body’s ability to suppress appetite or use insulin to regulate glucose levels–both of which are linked to diabetes.

Fat tissue can also increase production of the C-reactive protein (CRP) involved in the inflammation process and linked to cardiovascular disease.

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