Here are several medical conditions that during your regular dental exam, Dr.Shlafer may see signs of a health problem.

• Oral Cancer:  Dr.Shlafer can screen for precancerous changes in the oral tissues. This type of early detection of oral cancer(using ViziLite Plus)  can result in successful treatment. Even better, oral cancer can be prevented if found and treated in the precancerous stages. About  25% of  people diagnosed with  oral cancer (the 6th most common cancer in the U.S.) have none of the traditional risk factors associated with the disease, such as the use of tobacco products.
• Pregnancy Complications: Infants born prematurely in the U.S. account for 6%-9% of all births, but 70% of all prenatal deaths. The National Institute of Health  reports  that as many as 18%  of the  250,00 premature low-weight infants born in this country each year may be the result of inflammatory gum disease. Studies show that pregnant women with severe gum disease have 7 times the risk of delivering a low-birthweight baby.
• Heart Disease:  Studies have shown that people with severe periodontal disease, are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those without gum infection.  A study released  in February of 2005 shows that older adults who have higher proportions of periodontal disease causing bacteria in their mouths also tend to have thicker carotid arteries, a stronge predictor of stroke and heart attack.
• Diabetes: Many people with diabetes may not know they have it. Dr.Shlafer can play an important role in discovering oral symptoms and help with the management of it. Diabetics tend to get periodontal disease at a rate of 3-4 times higher than people without diabetes. Other oral problems diabetes can cause is  dry mouth, burning of mouth or tongue, a fungal infection, or a distinct breath odor.

It makes sense to safeguard your general health through  proper oral health care. Call us today with any health concerns you may have.

The condition of  your mouth mirrors the condition of your body as a whole. Dr.Shlafer may be the first health care provider to see the signs of a health problem.  If something  out of the ordinary is discovered, a follow up with your physician may result in early detection and treatment of a medical problem.

How can Dr. Shlafer find illnesses like heart disease and diabetes? He wouldn’t diagnose these illnesses, but may find oral symptoms that could relate to problems that may affect the rest of your body.

Shouldn’t I count on my physician to find any health problems? Yes, that is part of your strategy. Your oral health is an important part of your overall health and Dr.Shlafer is a key member of your personal health care team. The lips, tongue, gums, salivary glands and oral tissues can all warn of trouble with your general health and what Dr.Shlafer sees in your mouth may reveal the first signs of systemic disease, or a disease that affects your entire body.

Good dental health goes hand in hand with regular medical check ups.  Regular dental exams, just like your annual physical is an important part of  health care. Regular dental examinations allow Dr. Shlafer to keep your mouth in first class shape and watch for any changes or signs that may indicate problems elsewhere in your body. A dental exam also picks up on poor nutrition and hygiene, growth and developmental problems, as well as improper jaw alignment. Tomorrow more on medical conditions and their oral symptoms.

We take pride in our ability to offer our patients the most advanced dentistry in a warm and caring environment. We are here to help!

A growing body of research has linked gum disease to a variety of health problems that affect women. Because gum disease is a bacterial infection, it can enter the bloodstream and may be a factor in causing other health complications. Such as heart disease;stroke; diabetes; respiratory problems and pregnancy outcomes.

Women have special oral health requirements during unique phases of their lives. Different changes that women experience  throughout their lifetime may exaggerate the way gums react to plaque. Because gum disease is usually painless, many women may not even realize they have it until it reaches an advanced state. Your best defense is to brush and floss daily and see your dentist regularly.WomensOralHealthandOverallHealth.cvsp

A radiant smile will make you look younger A healthy mouth is a good indicator of over-all well being. We subconsciously connect a dull smile with age–enamel wears over time, darkening our teeth. A bright smile gives the impression of good health and youth.

Oral health habits are more that skin deep. We have all heard about the links oral health have to heart disease, premature birth and diabetes. Taking care of those pearly whites  starts with daily brushing, flossing and regular dental check ups. About 17% of adults admit to never flossing, and according to one report about 25% of adults ages 35-59 have  untreated tooth decay. Even if you feel you are our dental dream patient stay tuned for some surprising tips for a prettier, healthier smile.