Heart Health
Research continues to explore the relationship between chronic periodontal and endodontic disease, systemic inflammation, and cardiovascular health.
- Great Neck, NY
Oral Health & Whole-Body Wellness
Your mouth isn't disconnected from the rest of your body. That's why your routine dental checkup isn't disconnected from your overall health. Research on things like cavities, gum health, periodontal disease, and endodontic disease increasingly shows us that disease and inflammation that take place in the mouth affect the rest of the body.
That's why our dental office is so passionate about making sure our patients come in for routine cleanings and checkups. We firmly believe that good oral care is a longevity asset!
Health Conditions Associated With Oral Inflammation
Diabetes
Inflammation associated with chronic periodontal and endodontic disease may make blood sugar management more difficult for some patients.
Arthritis & Chronic Inflammation and infection
Chronic inflammation in the body may be influenced by multiple factors, including oral health.
Immune Health
Ongoing oral infection and inflammation may place additional stress on the immune system.
Cognitive Health
Research continues to explore potential associations between chronic oral inflammation and cognitive health conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Discover Our Process for Better Oral Health and Overall Wellness
Request a consultation-
Step 1
Testing and Discover
- We cover so much more than basic cleanings at our office! Steven I. Cooper, DMD firmly believes that your mouth shouldn't be a "mystery" to you. We know how frustrating things like ongoing decay, tooth sensitivity, and constant cavities can be. When you visit, you'll undergo advanced testing that allows us to detect risk factors or concerning developments with your oral health sooner. This includes:
- Testing for genetic markers that increase your risk for inflammation tied to periodontal and endodontic disease
- Evaluation of genetic predisposition to periodontal disease
- Assessment of your individualized risk factors for conditions impacting both oral and overall health
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Step 2
Your Personalized Examination
We provide comprehensive and personalized oral exams at our office. Our dentists use a mix of detailed observation and high-tech imaging to get the full picture on the state of your oral health. This is your chance to also ask questions about your oral health. From there, your dentist may recommend any of the following if they've identified decay or risk factors for future decay or disease:
- Clinical examination
- Periodontal assessment
- CBCT (3D imaging)
- Evaluation of a prior root canal
- Evaluation of potential inflammation sources
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Step 3
Planning Your Care With You
Our dentists work alongside you to create a personalized care plan to promote good oral health for a lifetime to come. This includes:
- Taking a comprehensive, whole-patient view by reviewing our own findings and observations alongside your medical history
- Identifying potential sources of oral inflammation
- CBCT (3D imaging)
- Deciding when treatment is appropriate
- Crafting a personalized care plan
Our practice utilizes advanced OralDNA® testing to evaluate harmful oral bacteria, inflammatory markers, and genetic risk factors associated with periodontal and endodontic disease and their potential contribution to systemic inflammation.
These non-invasive tests provide additional insight that may not be visible during a traditional exam alone.
PerioPath®
PerioPath® testing identifies specific bacteria associated with periodontal disease and chronic oral inflammation. Understanding the bacterial profile of the mouth can help guide more personalized periodontal treatment recommendations.
OralDNA® Testing
OralDNA® testing provides additional information beyond what can be seen during a traditional dental examination. These simple, non-invasive tests help evaluate bacterial, genetic, and inflammatory factors that may contribute to periodontal disease and chronic oral inflammation.
Alert2®
Alert2® testing evaluates inflammatory and genetic markers that may indicate increased susceptibility to periodontal disease and heightened inflammatory response.
CBCT Imaging
CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) provides highly detailed 3D images of the teeth, bone, and surrounding structures. This advanced imaging technology allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of both periodontal and endodontic conditions and can help identify areas of concern that may not be visible on traditional dental X-rays.
Who Benefits From This Approach?
- Our office is an ideal fit for people with the following dental issues:
- Chronic gum inflammation
- Family history of periodontal disease
- Recurrent periodontal concerns
- Interest in preventive wellness-focused care
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
- Patients seeking a more personalized approach
- Patients with chronic or recurrent endodontic infections
- Patients with a history of root canal complications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oral microbiome?
The oral microbiome refers to the community of bacteria and microorganisms naturally present in the mouth. A balanced oral microbiome helps support healthy teeth and gums, while bacterial imbalances may contribute to inflammation and periodontal disease.
Why is inflammation important in dentistry?
Periodontal and endodontic disease can contribute to systemic inflammation. Research continues to explore how systemic inflammation may accelerate disease processes throughout the body, which is why identifying and addressing oral sources of inflammation may be an important component of overall health.
What makes OralDNA® testing different from a regular dental exam?
Traditional dental exams evaluate visible signs of oral disease. OralDNA® testing provides additional information by identifying harmful oral bacteria, inflammatory markers, and genetic risk factors associated with periodontal and endodontic disease, helping provide a more complete picture of a patient's oral and overall health.
Can oral bacteria affect overall health?
Research continues to explore how harmful oral bacteria and chronic periodontal inflammation may be associated with broader health concerns, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and inflammatory conditions.
Is OralDNA® testing only for patients with gum disease?
Not necessarily. Some patients choose testing as part of a more preventive and personalized approach to oral healthcare, particularly if they have a family history of periodontal disease or chronic inflammation.
How is OralDNA® testing performed?
Testing is simple and non-invasive. Samples are typically collected using a saliva sample or a gentle bacterial swab during your dental visit.
Can this testing help identify problems early?
Advanced diagnostic testing may help identify bacterial and inflammatory risk factors before more advanced periodontal disease develops, allowing for earlier intervention and preventive care planning.
Does insurance cover OralDNA® testing?
Coverage varies depending on the patient’s insurance plan and clinical situation. Our team can help review your benefits and discuss available options.
Is this approach considered holistic dentistry?
Our approach is evidence-informed and focused on preventive, personalized care.
The goal is to better understand periodontal and endodontic disease, bacterial risk factors, and their potential contribution to systemic inflammation through advanced diagnostics and patient education.
Is OralDNA® testing covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Our team can review your benefits and discuss costs with you before testing.