Heart Health
Researchers continue to explore the relationship between periodontal disease, chronic inflammation, and cardiovascular health. Maintaining healthy gums may be an important component of an overall heart-healthy lifestyle.
Oral Health & Whole-Body Wellness
Your oral health plays an important role in your overall well-being. Research continues to explore the relationship between oral inflammation, periodontal disease, endodontic infections, and broader systemic health concerns throughout the body.
Conditions Associated with Oral Inflammation
Research continues to investigate the relationship between chronic oral inflammation and a variety of systemic health conditions. While oral disease does not directly cause these conditions, studies suggest that inflammation and harmful oral bacteria may play a role in broader inflammatory processes throughout the body.
Diabetes
The relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is often described as bidirectional. Chronic inflammation associated with gum disease may make blood sugar management more challenging, while uncontrolled diabetes may increase the risk of periodontal disease.
Cognitive Health
Research continues to investigate potential associations between chronic oral inflammation and cognitive conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Arthritis & Chronic Inflammation
Inflammation is a common factor in many chronic health conditions. Ongoing oral inflammation may contribute to the body's overall inflammatory burden and is an area of ongoing scientific study.
Immune Health
Chronic infections and inflammation within the mouth may place additional demands on the immune system. Identifying and treating oral sources of inflammation may help support overall health and wellness.
Our Evaluation Process
Request a consultation-
Step 1
Identify Potential Risk Factors
OralDNA® testing may be used to evaluate bacterial, inflammatory, and genetic risk factors associated with periodontal disease and chronic oral inflammation. This information can provide valuable insight into a patient's oral health profile and help identify areas that may require further evaluation.
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Step 2
Evaluate Areas of Concern
When indicated, additional evaluation may include a comprehensive clinical examination and CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) imaging. These tools allow us to assess both periodontal and endodontic conditions, helping identify potential sources of chronic inflammation that may not be visible through traditional dental imaging alone.
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Step 3
Develop a Personalized Care Plan
Findings are reviewed alongside each patient's oral health status, medical history, and individual risk factors to develop treatment recommendations tailored to their specific needs. Our goal is to identify and address potential sources of disease while supporting long-term oral health and overall wellness.
At our office, we use clinical laboratory services from OralDNA Labs® to ensure we are giving our patients the best oral health information possible. OralDNA Labs® is a specialty diagnostics company designed to provide reliable, definitive and cost effective clinical tests that guide oral health professionals in detecting and prognosing disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.
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.
PerioPath®
PerioPath® testing identifies specific bacteria associated with periodontal disease and chronic inflammation. Understanding a patient's bacterial profile can help guide more targeted treatment recommendations and ongoing monitoring.
Alert2®
Alert2® testing evaluates genetic and inflammatory markers that may indicate an increased susceptibility to periodontal disease and heightened inflammatory responses. This information can help support a more personalized and preventive approach to care.
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 May Benefit from this Approach?
Advanced oral-systemic evaluation may be beneficial for patients:
- With chronic gum inflammation or periodontal disease
- With recurrent or persistent endodontic infections
- With a family history of periodontal disease
- Managing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or other chronic inflammatory conditions
- Interested in preventive, wellness-focused care
- Seeking a more personalized approach to oral healthcare
- Looking to better understand the relationship between oral health and overall wellness
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oral-systemic connection?
The oral-systemic connection refers to the relationship between oral health and overall health. Research continues to explore how chronic oral inflammation and infection may be associated with broader health outcomes throughout the body.
Why are periodontal and endodontic infections important?
Both can be ongoing sources of chronic inflammation and bacteria. Identifying and treating them supports oral health and may reduce the body's overall inflammatory burden.
What is OralDNA® testing?
OralDNA® testing is a group of simple, non-invasive salivary diagnostic tests that evaluate bacterial, genetic and inflammatory factors contributing to periodontal disease.
What is PerioPath® testing?
PerioPath® identifies the specific bacteria present and their relative concentrations, which helps guide targeted treatment and ongoing monitoring.
What is Alert2® testing?
Alert2® evaluates genetic and inflammatory markers that may indicate increased susceptibility to periodontal disease and a heightened inflammatory response.
How is OralDNA® testing performed?
The test uses a simple saline rinse collected in the office. The sample is sent to the laboratory and results are reviewed with you at a follow-up visit.
What is a CBCT scan?
CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) produces detailed 3D images of the teeth, bone and surrounding structures, revealing areas of concern that traditional X-rays may not show.
Does oral disease cause systemic disease?
No. Current research describes associations, not direct causation. Oral inflammation is understood as one contributor among many to overall inflammatory burden.
Is this approach considered holistic dentistry?
This is evidence-based dental care that considers the relationship between oral health and overall wellness. It is not a substitute for medical care.
Is OralDNA® testing covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Our team can review your benefits and discuss costs with you before testing.