YOUR
PRIORITIZING
Dentistry: Ask The Expert
MEDICAL & DENTAL
HEALTH by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental
A
s the saying goes, some cannot see the forest beyond the trees. For dental providers, it is important that dentists see the body beyond the teeth. It has been well documented that there are multiple systemic conditions related to oral health, including cardiovascular health, diabetes, prenatal health, and localized or referred pain. In addition, certain genetic or health conditions can be discerned from symptoms related to the teeth or gums. When approaching overall dental care, there is a certain sequence that your dentist will follow to treat conditions based on their priority. • Prior to addressing dental concerns, your dentist should begin with the systemic phase of treatment by obtaining a thorough medical history that includes past and current medical conditions, medications, and any allergies that may affect your ability to receive dental care. • After all systemic concerns are addressed, the next phase is the acute phase which involves treating any severe oral pain or infection. The priority during this phase is relieving the patient of pain and eliminating or reducing infections that could result in further oral or systemic concerns.
• If periodontal disease is present,
this is usually addressed prior to any dental treatment involving the teeth or dentition. The reason is that the
periodontal structures that maintain the teeth create the foundation of teeth. The chronic loss of bone
around the teeth may result in
tooth loss, and therefore any
dental treatment
performed before this phase may
have been in vain. • Following
periodontal heath, the next stage is
• After all decay has been treated, the
final restorative phase involves major
restorations that may include crowns,
implants, orthodontic work, and so on. • Finally, one of the most important
phases is the recall phase. These are
the routine visits consisting of dental cleanings and x-ray acquisition to
make sure the previous care is under proper maintenance and to avoid
further treatment. The frequency of
FOR DENTAL PROVIDERS, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT DENTISTS SEE THE BODY BEYOND THE TEETH
these visits varies
based on necessity but are typically
three, four, or sixmonth intervals. This is a typical
standard followed by
dentists. However, it is
important to know that not all patients are the
same and may require customization when dealing with dental
the disease control phase. This typically
concerns. It is always best to maintain
that, if left untreated, could turn into
relationship with your dentist.
involves the treatment of tooth decay more significant treatment.
good communication and a constant Happy smiling!
940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226
www.35WestMagazine.com
OCTOBER 2020 | 35 WEST | 19
