In real estate, the mantra is location, location, location!
In dentistry, Dr. Bayette’s mantra is prevention, prevention, prevention!
Prevention dentistry is not complicated, however, it does require a dedicated dental staff and a patient committed to practicing good oral hygiene daily. Because Dr. Bayette also believes that education is the key to prevention, we spend a significant amount of time demonstrating proper hygiene techniques with various interdental tools and will follow up on our patient’s progress at all subsequent visits. We are highly sensitive to the changing environment of the mouth and make appropriate recommendations based on those changing conditions.
The mouth is a unique part of the human body in that it requires maintenance from very early in life and continues to need more attention as the body ages. Recognizing this fact then giving oral hygiene the attention it requires will not only ensure excellent oral health but also overall systemic health.
There have been various studies showing the link between gum disease and heart disease. Bacteria from your mouth can be spread to other parts of your body, including your heart, through your bloodstream, attaching themselves to any vulnerable area causing inflammation.
There is a linear correlation between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, also diabetes. Endocarditis, atherosclerosis, and stroke have been all linked to the inflammation caused by oral bacteria. Recent studies have also suggested a link between oral bacteria and the development of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, especially vascular dementia. Proving that controlling the bacteria in your mouth is vital to your overall health.
We ask our patients to devote several minutes a day removing bacteria and food particles — after breakfast, after lunch and at bedtime. Paying close attention to their bedtime routine as those overnight hours will surely allow bacteria to multiply. The Streptococcus mutans bacteria combined with sucrose are associated with decay while Treponema denticola and Porphyromona gingivalis are most associated with periodontal disease. As scary as those sound, all bacteria can be controlled with proper brushing, flossing, and the use of interdental tools.
Regular cleanings and exams are the backbones to prevention, so we ask our patients to see us every six, four or three months depending on their specific needs.
We have been practicing this high level of prevention and education for many years and our history has proven that once our patients employ these good habits, their oral health is improved dramatically, giving them a real sense of well-being
The success of dental treatment such as a crown or implant is much more feasible in a healthy mouth and should be considered a sound investment. The same treatment in an unhealthy mouth may not be as successful or long lasting. It has been said that 80% of dentistry is re-dentistry. Meaning that once you’ve had treatment on a tooth there is an 80% chance that you will need that treatment repaired or replaced. It makes sense to avoid costly treatment in the first place.
Dr. Bayette’s goal is to partner with our patients through continuing dialogue, examination, education, and prevention to ensure a healthy mouth. The practice of preventive dentistry is the key to that goal.
We’d enjoy hearing from you at our office in Mission Valley at 619-298-9839 or info@vbayettedds.com.