Last Week's Lecture for General Dentists

I like to help out any way I can in the area of continuing education. We were pleased to have Larry Calton, from Calton Lab in Gainesville, here last week. He conducted a lecture for our local general dentists. The lecture was held here at my office. Our turnout was so fantastic that we will be having another one! I think everyone that attended gained some extremely useful knowledge and understanding from the lab standpoint.

Our first Teeth-In-An-Hour patient returned today for his regular check up. His procedure was completed four years ago. He said today that it was the best investment that he ever made. Bob is 81 years old, still works as a flight instructor, and is doing better than ever!

Dr. Lee Sheldon
www.drleesheldon.com

Weekly Update

This week has been busy! We were thrilled to have had the pleasure of company in the office. A senior periodontal resident from the University of Florida visited and observed our office this week.

Our implant seminar was held on Tuesday. We had a great turn-out and hope to see many more new faces for the next seminar, which will be on February 4th.

I am excited to announce that we will have another addition to the office! My lead surgical assistant, Nicole, is expecting the delivery of her 2nd child, a daughter, in early March. Stay tuned for her name.

Lee N. Sheldon, D.M.D.
www.drleesheldon.com
877.259.9980

What is periodontal disease?

Gum disease, or more correctly called "periodontal disease", is a bacterial infection in the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It can be divided into several categories. The first stage is called "gingivitis" and is characterized by gum tissue that is red, puffy, and bleeds easily when touched with a toothbrush, floss or dental instrument.

The second, third, and fourth stages are initial, moderate, and advanced "periodontal disease", respectively. These stages are different from gingivitis because the infection has destroyed the bone supporting the teeth, causing eventual tooth loss. The treatment is more involved at these stages, usually consisting of a special cleaning with anesthesia and sometimes gum surgery. Periodontal disease can go on for years without pain and without detection unless specific examination procedures are performed. Visual oral examination by itself (even by a dentist) will not reliably detect periodontal disease until it has reached an advanced stage.

Early detection and adequate diagnosis require measurement of pockets (the crevice between the tooth and gum) with a periodontal probe. The earlier you catch the disease, the better the prognosis with treatment. However, advances in periodontal treatment are such that we can sometimes help you regrow lost bone support. Dental implants are very predictable as well, and should always be considered as an option in advanced cases. If you have concerns about periodontal disease, please contact our office and we will help you make the best decision, so that your treatment is as predictable and long-lasting as possible.

Dr. Lee Sheldon