Disturbing Trends in Dentistry Vol.1 - This is the first in a series of blogs addressing the disturbing trends we see in dentistry these days
#1 – Not diagnosing periodontal disease. The Center for Disease Control statistics show the dentistry is failing to diagnose at least 50% of the cases of periodontal disease (gum disease.) The disease affects as much as 80% of the adult population. For the first time in the United States, we have an entire generation over the age of 60 that have most or all of their teeth, and they are highly prone to periodontal disease.
Why is it missed?
- Periodontal Disease has NO Symptoms in the early and moderate stages. Periodontal disease is an infection that can exist for years with no symptoms.
- Dentists who don’t treat the disease may not spend time looking for it. A full periodontal exam should be performed at every hygiene visit. Unfortunately, this is skipped by many offices in an attempt to save time.
- Lack of training for dentists and hygienists on diagnosis of early periodontal disease: The periodontal exam requires trained dentists and hygienists that know how to accurately check for the disease. Unfortunately many dentists refer out patients for periodontal disease, so they don’t routinely work on the skills necessary to identify the disease.
- Your Risk factors for Periodontal disease go well beyond oral Hygiene:
Gum disease affects not just the health of your mouth, but contributes to Diabetes, Alzheimer's, Heart Disease and Stroke. So, it’s important that your dental team is performing a quality periodontal exam at every hygiene visit. To learn more about Dr. Linger's Advanced Technology, CLICK HERE
Hygienists using the Dental Operating Microscope are skilled at early detection of periodontal disease.
