Periodontal Associates - Dr. Kenneth Versman and Dr. Doug Heller

3 Great Reasons to Become a Patient of Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller

2011-12-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

3 Great Reasons to Become a Patient of Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller

1. On your very first visit to our office you will feel a very warm welcome. We think of our patients as a friend and want to help you obtain optimal health through an individualized approach to treatment. Trust is our number one priority and we will work hard to maintain it. Our trained and experienced staff offers a private consultation to review your needs. We have many years of experience in periodontics and dental implants.

2. You will feel at ease with what the doctors are recommending for treatment because of their extensive background.

Dr. Versman:

· One of a few Board- Certified Periodontists in the Denver area.

· Served a five-year term in the Colorado State Board of Dentistry by appointment of Governor Romer.

· Past President of the Colorado Dental Association.

· Past professor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry.

· Trustee to the American Dental Association representing Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and Hawaii.

Dr. Heller:

· Current Professor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry.

· Past President of the Rocky Mountain Periodontal Society.

· Present of the North American Society of Periodontists.

· Past president of the Aurora Dental Society.

· Fellow member of the American College of Dentists.

· Chairman of Peer Review Committee, MDDS.

· Fellow member of the International College of Dentists.

· Has been practicing Periodontics in Aurora since 1991.

3. We understand how important it is to you to maintain the health of your mouth. Periodontal treatment is your first step towards restoring your mouth and teeth to keep them for a lifetime. Periodontal therapy will also help to improve:

· Systemic Health

· Appearance

· Chewing

· Elimination of Bad odors and tastes

· Increased self-esteem and happiness

Our goal is quality in comfort, service and dental care. It’s a goal to which we are committed and a standard which our patients have come to expect. Feel free to call our office in the Denver/ Aurora Colorado area at (303)755-4500, or check out our website at www.periodontalhealth.com.

The New Vice President of the American Dental Association

2011-11-03T14:49:00.000-06:00

Dr. Ken Versman was recently elected Second Vice President of the American Dental Association, after serving a four year term as the ADA Trustee for the states of Arizona, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.

Dr. Versman received his dental degree from the University of Illinois and his certificate and masters degree in periodontology from the University of Iowa. He is currently in full time private practice in the Denver, Colorado area.

He was president of the Colorado Dental Association and has served on the Colorado State Board of Dental Examiners. For the ADA, he chaired the Joint Committee on International Accreditation, the ADA Diversity Committee and the Future of ADABEI Committee.

Dr. Versman was in the first fellowship class of the Academy of Osseointegration. He also has served the Academy in the past by being on the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws Committee, the Nominating Committee, the Education Committee, the ADHOC Reach Out Program Committee, as well as chairing the Lunch for Learning Committee and the Annual Session Table Clinic Committee.

Dr. Versman is also a diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology, and a fellow in the International and American Colleges of Dentistry and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. He is married to his wife, Linda, for 37 years and they have 2 daughters.

3 Surprising Teeth Stainers

2011-08-17T15:15:00.000-06:00

3 Surprising Teeth Stainers

Learn which liquids may damage your enamel, create protein build-up and more

Photo: © Shutterstock

When it comes to less-than-pearly whites, coffee’s not the only culprit. Watch out for these little-known teeth tainters, says Cynthia Sherwood, DDS, a spokeswoman for the Academy of General Dentistry:

White Wine
It’s actually more acidic than red—and acid breaks down tooth enamel, making it more likely to absorb color from food or drinks. That means if you drink white wine while enjoying, say, a plate of berries, your teeth are at risk. No need to nix the vino entirely; just alternate with sips of water to avoid unsightly marks.

Orange Juice
Also acidic, it’s especially damaging when paired with a dark beverage (like coffee). Daily cups of OJ can also leave your mouth more prone to stains because the acid continues to break down enamel over time. Lower the acidity level a little (and save calories) by diluting your juice with water or seltzer.

Swimming
If you’re a competitive swimmer or swim for hours each week, you could end up with spots called “swimmer’s calculus.” The high pH of the chemicals in the pool water causes proteins to harden into a dark brown tartar. You’ll probably need to get your teeth professionally cleaned three or four times per year.
--As appeared in Woman's Day magazine. September 2011 issue.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. A cleaning appointment at Periodontal Associates in the Denver/Aurora, CO area will include a dental exam and the following:

Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

To schedule a cleaning, or a dental exam by Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, appointment at Periodontal Associates, visit our contact form online, call us at 303-755-4500 or email us.

Periodontal Associates is a periodontal health practice in the Denver - Aurora, Colorado (CO) area with a focus on dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth, and the treatment of gingivitis and gum disease to restore patients' oral health.

Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club

2011-08-10T14:13:00.004-06:00

Please join Dr. Versman & Dr. Heller in Denver for the next Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club.

Upcoming Events

Event Marketing by Constant Contact

For event details and to register, visit our event page.

"My Five Favorite Teeth"

Presented by Dr. Norm Stoller, Past Chairman of the Division of Periodontics at the University of Colorado

Teeth That Have:
*Influenced my thinking
*Been intellectually challenging
*Made me realize that I had/have much to learn

This discussion will utilize five mini case studies to explore a wide range of topics that are of interest to all dental professionals.

This complimentary evening is courtesy of Periodontal Associates - The Dental Implant Team and Procter & Gamble. Food and drinks will be served at 6:00pm. Presentation will begin at 6:30pm. All attendees will receive a sample package courtesy of P&G.

Norm Stoller received his dental degree from University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 1967, a dental internship compliments of the US Army (1967-70), and a residency in periodontics at the University of Pennsylvania (1971-73).

His professional career was that of an academic dentist. From 1973 to 1983 Norm taught at the University of Pennsylvania. In 1983 he moved west to Chair the Division of Periodontics at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry. His research interests concentrated on the measurement and meaning of horizontal tooth mobility, the development of chemotherapeutic agents useful in the management of periodontal disease and the study and treatment of periodontal disease in the domesticated dog and cat as well as zoo-kept exotic animals. His academic career allowed for extensive travel, presenting papers, attending meetings and included a sabbatical to Geneva Switzerland in 1981. He retired from academic dentistry in 2006.

Norm and his wife currently reside in Frisco. He is an avid skier, road biker and wood turner.

Periodontal Associates is a periodontal health practice in Aurora, Colorado (CO) , serving the entire Denver metro area, with a focus on dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth, and the treatment of gingivitis and gum disease to restore patients' oral health.

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5 Surprising Secrets to a Great Smile

2011-07-26T12:51:00.000-06:00

This weekend I came across a great article in the Denver Post, Parade section, highlighting foods that may help keep your gums healthy. Thought we would share it with our patients at Periodontal Associates and with you too!

Want a Hollywood-perfect Grin? Fill up on these foods.

Healthy gums are the foundation of a dazzling smile. And while brushing and flossing are key, new research shows that eating these five foods can also help keep your gums in the pink.

Salmon: This fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation all over the body, including the gums. A study found that people who ate the most omega-3's slashed their risk of gingivitis by up to 20 percent.
Strawberries: They're bursting with vitamin C, which builds collagen, an important component of healthy gum tissue. In fact, people who consume less than 60 milligrams of C each day [the amount in six large strawberries] are 150 percent more likely to develop gingivitis. But stay away from fizzy vitamin supplement drinks; they have been shown to erode tooth enamel.
Whole-grain bread: Whole grains contain iron and B vitamins - nutrients essential to gum health. One large study found that eating three servings daily reduced the risk of gum disease by 23 percent. Barley, oatmeal and brown rice count too.
Green tea: Hot or iced, this brew is brimming with antioxidants that kill the bacteria that lead to gingivitis. Bonus: The beverage also wipes out the germs that cause bad breath.
Pistachios: These nuts are rich in the antioxidant CoQ10, shown to fight gum inflammation. If you already have gingivitis, ask your dentist or doctor whether you could benefit from a CoQ10 supplement.

By Nancy Kalish, Parade supplement Denver Post, July 24, 2011

Periodontist's Role and Diagnosing Diabetes

2011-07-20T13:06:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we discussed Periodontal Therapy for the Diabetic Patient. Today we talk about the role of Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller at Periodontal Associates, in addition to dentists in general, and their ability to play a favorable role in detecting diabetes.

Through observation of our patients' soft tissue response to periodontal therapy, dentists are in an ideal position to detect alterations which may result in an earlier diagnosis of diabetes.

In addition to the basic diagnostic tools for periodontitis, analysis of subgingival bacteria is another important diagnostic tool for the extended management of periodontal disease in diabetics. Subgingival cultures are frequently helpful in identifying these pathogens.

Recognizing other unexpected soft issue treatment response patterns may also lead to the discovery of diabetes, including dry mouth, and sporadic, aching pain in the lower anterior teeth without apparent cause.

It is best to treat controlled, insulin-dependent diabetic patients about 90 minutes after a meal and insulin dose. Ordinarily, this would be mid-morning to allow blood sugar levels to drop and to reduce the risk of diabetic complications during treatment. In addition to an appropriate postoperative diet, diabetic patients usually require antibiotics concomitant with treatment due to their lowered resistance to infection. The diabetic patient requires close monitoring the shorter maintenance intervals. Because glucose concentrations in diabetics are elevated in gingival fluid and saliva, the diabetic patient with root exposure has a substantially increased incidence of root caries. Fluoride rinses, gels or NaF varnishes may be helpful.

Initiating periodontal care for the diabetic patient should be a foremost concern of physicians as it may make their task easier and reduce insulin requirements. A close cooperation between the endocrinologist and the periodontist is vital to manage the patient's periodontal problems and diminish the detrimental effects of inflammatory disease on diabetes control and cardiovascular health. Working in concert, these two disciplines have a greater success in the diagnosis and control of diabetes and periodontitis.

Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller are Periodontists at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO and serve the entire Denver Metro and surrounding area. For more information, please visit www.periodontalhealth.com.

Periodontal Therapy for the Diabetic Patient

2011-07-19T11:33:00.000-06:00

Periodontal Associates - Therapy for the Diabetic Patient

Part of our role here at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, Colorado is to educate our patients and the Denver metro community. We have several useful health related articles involving the periodontal connection on our website. We have provided information about periodontitis and diabetes entitled "Periodontal Disease and Diabetes". It's a great article to share.

Prevention, early diagnosis and consequent treatment of periodontal diseases may have a major impact on the control of diabetes. Research suggests that not only does diabetes influence the progress of periodontal diseases, but active periodontal disease also influeces the diabetic state.

The systemic inflammatory response generated by inflamed periodontal tissues aggravates insulin resistance and increases blood sugar, thus creating a vicious cycle of diabetes and periodontitis exacerbating each other and putting diabetic patients at increased risk for diabetic complications.

People with diabetes are more than twice as likely to have periodontal disease than people without diabetes because diabetics are more susceptible to contracting infections. This may be due to numerous physiological phenomena seen in diabetes, such as impaired immune resistance, vascular changes, altered microflora, and abnormal collagen metabolism. People with uncontrolled diabetes are especially at risk. A study in the Journal of Periodontology found that poorly controlled type 2 diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease then well-controlled diabetics.

Aggressive management of oral health in diabetic patients may diminish the adverse inflammatory effects on diabetes control. Several studies have reported that when periodontal infections were treated, the management of diabetes markedly improved.

These studies suggest that the reduction of periodontal inflammation can be very helpful in controlling blood glycemic levels and reducing insulin requirements.

For diabetics, periodontal disease therapy is a long-term venture, requiring some modifications of the customary periodontal treatment applied to non-diabetics. If you're concerned about your periodontal health, please contact Periodontal Associates to schedule a comprehensive exam. For your convenience, you may also email us at appointments@periodontalhealth.com or call (303)755-4500.

What do those numbers mean to me and my Dentist?

2011-07-13T14:41:00.001-06:00

Pockets in my gums?

Have you ever wondered what those numbers mean that your Denver Dentist or Hygienist calls out while checking your teeth and gums? Or what those numbers mean in relation to gum disease?

At your dental visit the dentist or hygienist should perform a screening where a tiny ruler called a 'probe' is used to check for and measure any pockets in your gums. This probe is a depth measurement device - the measurements are taken in millimeters (mm). With very little pressure the probe is slipped down next to the root of the tooth until there is resistance. The mark which is then at the gum line demonstrates the depth of the gum pocket. You'll often hear your dentist or hygienist calling out numbers, or the pocket depth. In a healthy mouth, free of gum disease, the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters.

See the guide below:

If your numbers are in the higher range, you will often be referred to a periodontist. Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates are Periodontists who are specially trained to diagnose and treat gum disease and dental implants. Periodontal Associates is conveniently located in Aurora, Colorado and serves the entire Denver metro area.

Dr. Ken Versman & Dr. Doug Heller, recipients of the Top Periodontist Award by Denver magazine

2011-06-03T11:08:00.000-06:00

2011 Top Periodontists Award

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller have been awarded the 2011 Top Periodontists Award in the June issue of 5280 Magazine. It is an honor to receive this award for the fourth year in a row! 5280 Magazine identifies top dentists as chosen by their peers. We are thankful for the continued confidence and trust we receive from our fellow dental professionals and by our patients.

Caring for your teeth and gums...Denver and Beyond

2011-05-18T13:34:00.001-06:00

While Vacationing...Gum Disease could be your Unwanted Guest

As the days grow longer and Summer draws closer, thoughts may be turning towards summer vacation plans away from Denver. Whether your idea of the perfect summer vacation includes camping in the mountains, a beach-side cottage by the ocean or lake, or a cross-country trek visiting family and friends along the way -- know that gum disease risk factors are tagging along for the ride.

Gum disease just might be one of the sneakiest diseases taunting Americans worldwide. That’s because it starts in the background without any symptoms to warn you of it's arrival. The disease begins with plaque build up on the surface of your teeth that results in tiny pockets along the gum line.
These pockets then serve as the perfect habitat for the bacteria that causes gum disease. Perhaps the most amazing part is the speed in which this all takes place. Within a two week time span the bacteria in your mouth can more than double if you're neglecting your oral care.
As you prepare for that fun filled vacation, be sure to follow these tips to ensure your gums are just as healthy at the end of your trip as they were when you left:

Store your toothbrushes in travel containers that have holes for proper air circulation. This airflow will allow the brush to thoroughly dry and discourage the growth of bacteria.
Store toothbrushes separately to prevent the spread of bacteria from one brush to another
Thoroughly clean and disinfect the travel containers before and after your trip
Regularly disinfect your toothbrush while on vacation or at home by washing it in the dishwasher, storing it in the fridge or placing it in a cup of mouthwash
When traveling abroad brush with bottled water
Keep your toothbrush 2-5 feet from the sink and toilet to avoid water contamination
Always pack extra oral care supplies in case you can’t readily purchase them
If you don’t have toothpaste, brush with water to remove food and bacteria. Brushing with water alone is better than not brushing at all.
If you forget your toothbrush and are unable to purchase a new one, wrap a washcloth around your fingertip and rub along teeth surfaces. Finish with floss and rinse with mouthwash if available.
Don’t share a toothbrush! Oral bacteria can be passed from one mouth to another via the brush.

There’s no excuse for letting your oral health decline while on vacation. Stay on top of your oral routine and monitor your mouth closely. If you notice signs of gum disease or any unusual changes you are unsure about contact your dental practitioner right away.

If you're dealing with or suspect gum disease, Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, Periodontists in Aurora Colorado, treat gum disease patients in the Denver metro area. Call Periodontal Associates at 303-755-4500 or visit us on the web at www.periodontalhealth.com.

Periodontics and Periodontists

2011-05-11T11:31:00.000-06:00

Periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.

Yesterday, we wrote a bit about the nine dental specialties recognized by the ADA. Today, we would like to focus on one of those specialties that's near and dear to us: Periodontics.
Periodontics is a dental specialty concerned with dental implants and the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the tissues supporting and surrounding the teeth. (In layman's terms, a periodontist treats dental implants and gum disease.)

Periodontists are specially trained in the placement of dental implants to help replace missing teeth. Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller are Periodontists at Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO - Dr. Versman & Dr. Heller work as a team with your general dentist in coordinating dental implant treatment. Periodontists also supervise patients in the maintenance of periodontal health and are experts in the treatment of oral inflammation.

Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. They are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, and are also trained in performing cosmetic periodontal procedures.

Every aspect of periodontal treatment aims at restoring health to the gums and bone so that teeth may be saved. Patients may be referred to a periodontist by their dentist, family, or friends, or they may schedule an appointment or consultation if they are in need of implants or suspect gum disease.
If you, or someone you know, is interested in replacing a missing tooth or teeth, please contact us today and find out why Periodontal Associates is Colorado's Premier Provider of Dental Implants and Periodontics. In fact, 80% of our work is referred to us by dental professionals in the Denver metro and surrounds area!

Dental Specialties - A Simple Guide

2011-05-10T12:32:00.001-06:00

What are the Dental Specialties recognized by the American Dental Association?

Periodontics is the specialty recognized by the ADA for Treatment of the gums, and dental implants.

The other eight specialties the ADA recognizes (in simple terms) are:

Dental Public Health - Dental health issues dealing with the public at large.
Endodontics - Root canal treatment.
Orthodontics - Straightening of the teeth.
Oral Surgery - Implant placement, jaw alignment surgeries, extractions.
Oral Pathology - Diseases of the oral cavity.
Pediatric Dentistry - Children’s dentistry.
Prosthodontics - Tooth restoration and replacement.
Dental Radiology - Radiology of the mouth.

For more information, please visit the ADA's site or you may contact Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO - Dr. Ken Versman & Dr. Doug Heller or call us at 303-755-4500.

Dry Mouth?

2011-04-21T13:10:00.002-06:00

Mental health and your dental health

Are you one of the many Americans taking an antidepressant? Experts believe that certain antidepressants — such as Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft—may increase the risk of tooth decay. Many of these medications are known to cause dry mouth, which creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and sets the stage for bad breath.

Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO suggest frequently sipping water to prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth. While you may think the answer to fresher breath is using a mouthwash, you may actually want to avoid certain over-the-counter mouthwashes. Many of the mouthwashes on the market today contain a high alcohol content and may further contribute to mouth dryness or Xerostomia.

Xerostomia is the academic term for what you and I call dry mouth. It is, quite simply, the feeling you have when there is little to no saliva in your mouth. You can probably recall times in your life when you were particularly anxious, dehydrated or otherwise exhausted and had that awful dry feeling, as if your mouth was full of sand.

Dry mouth can in some cases be a result of certain medications, health conditions or from aging. Several prescription drugs are available to treat or prevent Xerostomia if it is a persistent problem. Continuously having dry mouth may actually threaten your overall dental hygiene. Saliva is important to the health of your teeth. The absence of saliva can cause a dramatic increase in cavities. Quick and easy remedies may include sipping water or sugarless fluids. Chewing on gum can also aid in increasing the saliva in your mouth and help to relieve that dry mouth feeling.

If you have frequent dry mouth or Xerostomia, contact us today so that we can help you find the best solution to your dry mouth. (303)755-4500

Our dental office is located in Aurora, CO near I-225 and Parker Rd. We're a short drive from Denver, Cherry Hills, Greenwood Village, Denver Tech Center (DTC), Centennial, Lone Tree, Englewood, Parker, Inverness, Castle Pines, Castle Rock and Highlands Ranch.

Dental Implants or Dentures?

2011-04-07T10:22:00.003-06:00

A natural tooth is anchored into the jawbone by its tooth root. Tooth roots attach firmly to the jawbone and keep your teeth stable when chewing solid foods.

Traditionally, if you were missing a tooth (or one needed to be extracted), the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth would have the enamel removed and the whole thing replaced with a three-crown “bridge”.

Dental Implants are the modern alternative. Instead of shaving down two perfectly good teeth, a dental post (Dental Implant) is inserted into the jawbone to replace your missing tooth root with very little discomfort. This post becomes fixed in your jaw (like a natural tooth root). A crown is then placed onto this artificial tooth root that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth.

Quite simply, Dental Implants are the most natural replacement for missing teeth.

Replacing Several Missing Teeth

Traditionally, several missing teeth would have been replaced with a removable partial or full set of dentures.
One of the drawbacks of dentures is that dentures need to be taken out, soaked and cleaned nightly. During the day, dentures can also look unnatural and rub which can cause pain and discomfort. Dentures and partials make it difficult or impossible to eat certain foods such as steak and corn on the cob. Often times, many people will remove their dentures before eating a meal so that they can "taste" the full flavor of the food.

Dental Implants can now be used to anchor partial and full dentures.

Dentures can be well retained with as few as 2 implants. This prevents the slipping, irritation, and pain associated with “floating” partials and dentures. It also prevents the tedious removal of dentures for overnight soaking and cleaning. With Dental Implants, these restorations are anchored firmly into the jawbone becoming much more like natural teeth.

Natural tooth roots and dental implant posts are fixed firmly in your jawbone. When you chew, these tooth roots and posts stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from shrinking. You may have noticed a person who looked prematurely old because of wearing floating dentures and having their jawbone "shrink". Dental Implants help preserve your jawbone and your appearance.
After their healing period, the success rate of Dental Implants is close to 96%. If you are a non-smoker with good oral hygiene, the success rate rises closer to 98%!
Placing a Dental Implant is usually like getting a cavity filled or even easier. It is done under local anesthesia (novocaine) and patients generally experience little discomfort after the procedure. Read a few of the comments that we have received from our patients:

The implant was painless and an easy experience. --Walter

I had a great experience. I felt comfortable having the surgery done and the staff was incredible. Dr. Heller really made the process easy and I am very happy with the results. --Sergiane Hendrix

It was the easiest experience I've had....and I had 7 children! --Millie

Dental Implants become fixed to the jawbone. Dental Implants have successfully been in patients' mouths for over 30 years without needing replacement. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, Dental Implants should last a lifetime. In contrast, the average life span of a traditional fixed bridge is between 8-10 years.

What is the cost of Dental Implants? Is it expensive?

It is difficult to define the value of dental implants. Dental implants are NOT expensive, when one factors in the life long use and the benefits that come from having secure, functional, attractive teeth and a winning smile. A winning smile surely adds great value to your professional image not to mention your social life! For some who prioritize dental health, the concept of eating well until death is a very significant motivation for implant treatment. We offer many payment options and for those who qualify, an interest free payment plan.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental Implant treatment begins with a FREE evaluation by Dr. Versman or Dr. Heller of Periodontal Associates in the Denver - Aurora, Colorado area. They will determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure and discuss your options.

Call us today for your free evaluation at 303-755-4500. Our office is conveniently located near I-225 and Parker Road at 2900 South Peoria Street in the Aspens Dental Park, Building D in Aurora, CO. We serve Aurora and the surrounding cities of Denver, Centennial, Parker, Lone Tree, Bennett, Strasburg, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Englewood and Lakewood, CO.

The Value of a Smile

2011-03-10T13:06:00.000-07:00

At Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO, we never underestimate the value of a healthy and beautiful smile. I spoke with one of Dr. Heller's patients today who had previously undergone connective tissue grafting surgery due to gum recession. Jenny, a daughter of an orthodontist, was quick to flash me her lower gums and tell me how happy she was with the results. I immediately thought she was speaking of the health benefits and comfort of no longer being 'long in the tooth'. After all, the lower gum area is seldom seen by anyone, right? Wrong! Jenny was just as pleased with being able to correct the gum issue as she was with being able to look in the mirror and see a beautiful and healthy set of gums. It continually gives Jenny a reason to smile.

The Value of a Smile

by Francie Baltazar-Schwartz

“The value of a smile is priceless, yet it is the cheapest, easiest, most rewarding and most sincere gift to anyone that crosses your path. A smile makes a person’s day, anybody’s day even a stranger’s day. A smile is infectious. Start infecting people with your smile today.

A smile is nature’s best antidote for discouragement. It brings rest to the weary, sunshine to those who are sad, and hope to those who are hopeless and defeated.

A smile is so valuable that it can’t be bought, begged, borrowed, or taken away against your will. You have to be willing to give a smile away before it can do anyone else any good.

So if someone is too tired or grumpy to flash you a smile, let him have one of yours anyway. Nobody needs a smile as much as the person who has none to give.”

Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller find great satisfaction in keeping our patients at or returning them to the highest level of dental health in which they desire. At Periodontal Associates, it is our belief that better oral health enhances self-esteem, growth, and rewards you with a better quality of life. Our goal is quality--in comfort, service, and dental care. It's a goal to which we are committed and a standard which our patients have come to expect. If you would like to schedule a periodontal exam to assess the health of your teeth and gums, please contact Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO at 303-755-4500. Dr Ken Versman & Dr. Doug Heller proudly serve the greater Denver metro area and are Colorado's Premier Provider of Dental Implants and Periodontics.

Top 10 Strangest Dental Requests in Denver & Aurora CO heard by Drs. Versman & Heller

2011-03-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

Here at Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO we receive many interesting questions in regards to dental implants, replacing lost or broken teeth and how to keep smiles healthy and bright. Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller have heard many stories including how one patient cleaned his teeth most of his life using burnt tortillas instead of a toothbrush and floss. We, of course, don't recommend using tortillas for home care. Apparently we are not the only dentists hearing interesting dental stories, questions and requests.

According to drbicuspid.com the Chicago Dental Society surveyed more than 300 members to find out the strangest dental requests they'd ever received from patients.
Here are their responses:

"Can you extract my tooth without anesthesia?"
"Please wire my mouth shut to aid in my diet."
"Can you ID this set of dentures left in the bathroom of the bar I work at?"
"I will pay you or your hygienist to floss my teeth at my office every day."
"Pull all my teeth and just give me dentures."
"I just broke off my engagement. Can you prepare my tooth so that I can keep the diamond in it?"
"Will you give me local anesthesia in my lips? I'm going in for permanent "lipstick" tattoos on my lips and would like to avoid the pain."
"May I have an emergency cleaning visit? It's my high school reunion and I need a bright, white smile to face my old boyfriend."
"Can I keep the teeth you pull out of my mouth? I'd like to make a necklace out of them."

And the No. 1 strangest dental request ever received according to those dentists surveyed?

"Can you give my dog braces?"

The survey also included examples of how patients attempt self-treatment. It found that nearly 70% of the dentists surveyed have taken care of a patient who tried to treat their own dental problem before visiting the dentist. The most common home treatment among patients, dentists said, is Super Glue for broken crowns and dentures. Using an emery board to file chipped teeth or overusing topical painkillers, such as teething gels, to deaden pain also were common. Remarkably, several dentists had treated patients who attempted to give themselves a root canal using power tools. OUCH!

If you have any questions or concerns regarding dental hygiene or care, dental implants and replacement procedures for a missing tooth or teeth...or whether we recommend using power tools for a do-it-yourself root canal (No!), please feel free to contact our office by phone at 303-755-4500 or email. Periodontal Associates (Drs. Versman & Heller) are happy to serve the Denver Metro area and are conveniently located in Aurora, CO. We serve the surrounding cities of Denver, Centennial, Parker, Lone Tree, Bennett, Strasburg, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Englewood and Lakewood, CO.

Periodontal Prognosis - Hygiene Study Club

2011-01-20T14:06:00.001-07:00

Calling all Denver area Dental Hygienists and Assistants

If you missed attending the 2011 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention recently held in Denver, CO...

then plan on attending Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club on February 16th! You will experience Dr. Paul Glick present "Periodontal Prognosis". Included in the evening of networking and education (that you won't want to miss!): expanded information that was not provided at the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention including twin studies and the correlation between smoking and periodontitis.

Periodontal Prognosis

Tooth or Dare

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Roll of Hygienists in long term maintenance
Systemic effects related to periodontal health
Success factors involved in periodontal treatment

The event will be held at the MDDS/CDA Building in Denver, CO.

For more information or to register to attend, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/periodontalhealth or email Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club at hygienestudyclub@gmail.com.

Dr. Ken Versman, Dr. Doug Heller, Dr. Paul Glick and the staff at Periodontal Associates in Denver - Aurora, CO look forward to seeing you there!

New Study: Peanut Butter and the effects on Gum Disease

2010-11-16T14:40:00.003-07:00

PB&GD?
Polyunsaturated fats (like those found in peanut butter, salmon, nuts and margarine) have been shown to help prevent health problems like heart disease; Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates Denver - Aurora, CO want you to know that new evidence shows that those same foods can help stave off gum disease too!

In fact, a recent study found that people who consumed the most fatty acids had a 30% reduced risk of gum disease.

Here is more information about the study:

Periodontal (gum) Disease, a common inflammatory disease in which gum tissue separates from teeth, leads to accumulation of bacteria and potential bone and tooth loss. Although traditional treatments concentrate on the bacterial infection, more recent strategies target the inflammatory response. In an article in the November issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, researchers from Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health found that dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) like fish oil, known to have anti-inflammatory properties, shows promise for the effective treatment and prevention of periodontitis.
"We found that n-3 fatty acid intake, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are inversely associated with periodontitis in the US population," commented Asghar Z. Naqvi, MPH, MNS, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. "To date, the treatment of periodontitis has primarily involved mechanical cleaning and local antibiotic application. Thus, a dietary therapy, if effective, might be a less expensive and safer method for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis. Given the evidence indicating a role for n-3 fatty acids in other chronic inflammatory conditions, it is possible that treating periodontitis with n-3 fatty acids could have the added benefit of preventing other chronic diseases associated with inflammation, including stoke as well."
For more information about the study and findings click here or here.

To learn more about gum disease, please visit our website at www.periodontalhealth.com.
Drs. Versman and Heller of Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO serving the Denver Metro and surrounding area with a focus on dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth, and the treatment of gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease to restore patients' oral health. To schedule a free dental implant consultation, please call our office at (303)755-4500.

Smoking and the Periodontal Risk

2010-11-10T07:46:00.002-07:00

Tobacco Use vs. Your Oral Health

Understand the Dangers

Surprising as it may sound, many smokers are not aware of the dangers of tobacco use. This month, in connection with the Great American Smokeout, Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in the Denver Aurora, CO area are focusing on getting the facts out about tobacco use and the effect it has on your teeth, gums and overall oral health. Believe it or not, just 29 percent of smokers say they believe themselves to be at an above-average risk for heart attack compared with their nonsmoking peers, according to a study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Interestingly, while information about the associated medical problems smokers are at risk for – such as lung disease, heart disease, cancer and even low-birth-weight babies – is widely available, many smokers seem to have tuned it out.

Here is another risk that Drs. Versman and Heller want you to hear loud and clear: Tobacco use is harmful to your oral health.

The Periodontal Connection

In conjunction with the American Academy of Periodontology, Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in Denver-Aurora, CO, hope to help educate the public about one specific threat to smokers – periodontal disease. According to Dr. Doug Heller:

"Seventy to seventy-five percent of our adult periodontic patients tend to be smokers or tobacco users. There is a strong correlation between smoking and adult periodontitis."

In fact, recent studies have shown that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of periodontal disease. It has been found that following periodontal treatment or any type of oral surgery, the chemicals in tobacco cause the healing process to slow down and make the treatment results less predictable.

You may be wondering just how smoking increases the risk for periodontal disease. It's simple. As a smoker, you are more likely to have the following problems:

Calculus – plaque that hardens on your teeth and can only be removed during a professional cleaning
Deep pockets between your teeth and gums
Loss of the bone and tissue that support your teeth

If the calculus is not removed during a professional cleaning, and it remains below your gum line, the bacteria in the calculus can destroy your gum tissue and cause your gums to pull away from your teeth. When this happens, periodontal pockets form and fill with disease-causing bacteria.

If left untreated, periodontal disease will inevitabley progress. The pockets between your teeth and gums can grow deeper, allowing in more bacteria that destroy tissue and supporting bone. As a result, the gums may shrink away from the teeth making them look longer. Without treatment, your teeth may become loose, painful, need to be extracted or even fall out.

You Can Save Your Smile

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only about 20 percent of people over age 65 who have never smoked are toothless, compared to a whopping 41.3 percent of daily smokers over age 65 are toothless.

In addition, research shows that current smokers don't heal as well after periodontal treatment as former smokers or nonsmokers. The good news: these effects are reversible if the smokers kick the habit before beginning treatment!

Not Just Cigarettes

It's not just cigarettes that are the smoking gun. Other tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, are also harmful to your oral health. Chewing tobacco also causes gums to recede and increase the chances of bone and fiber loss - the same bones and fiber that hold your teeth in place. Cigar and pipe smokers are at risk too. According to the ADA, cigar and pipe smokers experience tooth loss and alveolar bone loss at rates equivalent to those of cigarette smokers.

Need More Reasons to Quit?

Researches also have found that the following problems occur more often in people who smoke or use tobacco products:

Oral cancer
Bad breath
Stained teeth
Tooth loss
Bone loss
Loss of taste
Less success with periodontal treatment
Less success with dental implants
Gum recession
Mouth sores
Facial wrinkling

There's No Better Time

November 18th marks the 35th annual Great American Smokeout. The American Cancer Society encourages all smokers to take a day off, and possibly quit smoking for good. By abstaining from smoking that one day, smokers will be taking an important first step to improving their health. Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in Denver/Aurora, CO, encourage you to visit www.cancer.org/smokeout or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. For information about periodontal (gum) disease, please visit our website at http://www.periodontalhealth.com where you will find a helpful Visual Guide, Gum Disease Self Evaluation, the Seven Danger Signs of Gum Disease and more. To schedule an appointment to evaluate your oral health and possible treatment options, contact us via the web, email or call (303)755-4500 in the Denver Metro area.

10 Very Good Reasons for Restorative Dentistry

2010-10-14T18:11:00.002-06:00

Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO and serving the Denver Metro area,  would like you to know the Top 10 reasons for restorative dentistry:

Enhance your smile.
Fill in unattractive spaces between teeth.
Improve or correct an improper bite.
Prevent the loss of a tooth.
Relieve dental pain.
Repair damaged and decayed teeth (cavities).
Replace missing teeth.
Replace old, unattractive dental treatments.
Restore normal eating and chewing. Eat whatever you choose to eat!
Restore confidence and self image.

For a free dental implant consultation, or to schedule a periodontal checkup, contact us today at 303-755-4500. Periodontal Associates, Colorado's Premier Provider of Dental Implants and Periodontics

Drs. Versman & Heller discuss dental implants - Now Showing!

2010-09-28T12:04:00.001-06:00

As seen on TV, Dr. Kenneth Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates - The Dental Implant Team, discuss the cost, options and benefits of dental implants. Our office has been receiving many calls due to the informative show broadcast on KCDO-TV (Channel 3) in Denver. If you missed it, here's your chance!

Hygiene Study Club Announced

2010-09-21T13:14:00.000-06:00

Calling All Dental Hygienists, Assistants and colleagues in the Denver Metro Area!

Dr. Ken Versman and Dr. Doug Heller of Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO would like to extend an invitation to attend our upcoming Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club.

October 19, 2010
Tuesday evening
MDDS/CDA Building
Denver, CO
A light buffet and beverages will be served.

Improve your X-Ray Vision.
See More. Do More.

Presented by Dr. Brad J. Potter

Presented by Dr. Brad J. Potter
Sponsored by OralB

Discovering new techniques, tips and tricks to taking better x-rays and future trends in dental imaging

Dr. Potter is an Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the University of Colorado Denver School of Dental Medicine. In addition he teaches the Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology curriculum in the Department of Diagnostic and Biologic Sciences. He is a diplomat of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, and a fellow of the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, and the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.

For more information or to RSVP, email us at hygienestudyclub@gmail.com

Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club

Periodontal Associates' Hygiene Study Club invites dental hygenists throughout the Denver, CO and surrounding metro area to learn and discuss a variety of topics of interest within the dental community. Each meeting allows attendees to facilitate knowledge, competence and communication skills while networking with other hygienists in the area. If you are interested in joining the Hygiene Study Club or have any questions, please contact us:

Periodontal Associates - The Dental Implant Team
Dr. Kenneth Versman and Dr. Doug Heller
303-755-4500 or hygienestudyclub@gmail.com

Labor Day wishes from Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO

2010-09-03T20:04:00.000-06:00

Labor Day Trivia from Periodontal Associates

Labor Day. For most of us, this holiday marks the end of summer. It’s a last hurrah, a last chance to have friends and family over to fire up the barbecue, chill at the pool and just enjoy the care-free attitude that comes with the beautiful summer sunshine here in Denver.

We know that Kathy (here with Dr. Heller), our winner of the Dog Days of Summer contest, will be enjoying her new prize and celebrating her win.

But what will you be doing this holiday weekend?

Other than serving as the unofficial end of summer, what else do we know about Labor Day? Periodontal Associates would like to share some facts about the holiday’s history and labor in general. Rattle these bad boys off this weekend and you are sure to impress your fellow grill meisters.

• Labor Day is the first Monday in September and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. The Department of Labor calls it a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

• The first Labor Day was celebrated on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882.
• The day of the holiday was changed to the first Monday in September in 1884. Congress passed an act officially making the first Monday in September a legal holiday on June 28, 1894.
• For many decades, Labor Day was seen as a day for workers to voice their complaints and discuss better working conditions and pay.
• In 2009, 155.1 million people were in the nation’s labor force.
• Approximately 7.2 million people identify their occupation as a teacher. Comparatively, 1.7 million are chief executives, 751,000 are farmers and ranchers and 773,000 are hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists.
• There are 15.7 million labor union members in the United States, which is about 12 percent of wage and salary workers. Alaska, Hawaii and New York have some of the highest rates of the states. North Carolina has one of the lowest.
• About 3.4 million workers have an at least 90-minute commute to work each day. Aren't we lucky to have such relatively easy commutes in Denver!
• The origin of the word labor is from the Anglo-French word labur and the Latin word labor. It was first used in the 14th century.
• Roughly 7.7 million people have two jobs. Of those people, 288,000 work two full-time jobs.
• There are about 5.7 million people who report they work from home.
• About 28 percent of workers 16 or older work more than 40 hours a week. Meanwhile, 8 percent of workers work more than 60 hours a week.
• And in other labor news: For a first-time mom, the average time span for labor is 16 hours. After the first baby, mothers can expect to be in labor for an average of 7 to 8 hours for following pregnancies.

So spend this Labor Day celebrating the holiday the way it was intended to be—sit back, relax and pat yourself on the back for all the hard work you do. -- Drs. Versman and Heller - Periodontal Associates - The Dental Implant Team

Top Causes of Bleeding Gums according to Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO

2010-08-31T13:34:00.000-06:00

"Why do my gums bleed when I brush?" is a common question that our periodontists, Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller, are asked at Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO.

Bleeding gums can be extremely discomforting physically and mentally. It is important that a person understands that gums that bleed signify a problem that needs to be addressed to both stop the gums from bleeding and to heal your gums.

Let’s take a look at the top possible causes of gum bleeding.

Gum disease: This is the most common cause for bleeding gums. The initial stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis in which gums become swollen and tender. These bleed upon touch especially during actions such as brushing or eating. Gum disease also known as Periodontal Disease occurs due to accumulation of plaque which irritates the gums. If gum disease is not treated initially, it progresses to Periodontitis and finally tooth loss. For more information and frequently asked questions about gum disease, treatment and more including Seven Danger Signs, an initial self-evaluation and a visual guide, visit our website at www.periodontalhealth.com.

Vigorous brushing: Brushing with toothpaste is abrasive in nature. Overzealous brushing does more harm than good to the teeth. In rare cases, overzealous brushing can also cause the gums to bleed but getting healthy gums to bleed by vigorous brushing is rare.

Smoking or chewing tobacco: In addition to the irritating effect of tobacco the gums, smokers tend to have more tartar on their teeth than non-smokers which causes gum disease.

Hormones: Hormone receptors are embedded in gum tissue. If certain hormone levels rise above their normal level, they can cause an increase of fluid level in the gum tissue. This change results in gum becoming red, tender and swollen. When hormone levels become normal, so do your gums.

Vitamin K deficiency: Vitamin K is an important factor in the process of blood clotting. A deficiency in Vitamin K can cause gums to bleed.

Drugs: Some drugs such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants, nasal sprays and anticoagulants may have the tendency to cause bleeding gums.

Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders are disorders in which a body’s own immune system damages its own cells. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) are a few autoimmune disorders which can cause bleeding gums.

Leukemia: Leukemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow. One of its characteristic symptoms is bleeding gums.

It is often found that a patient with gums that bleed suffers from some degree of gum disease. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, call Dr. Versman and Dr. Heller at Periodontal Associates for an appointment to check your overall gum health and to determine the appropriate course of action.

Eat your fruits and veggies...for your gums?

2010-08-19T13:37:00.000-06:00

We've talked about the benefits of including fruits and vegetables into your diet as healthy snacks before. Eating fresh fruit, such as an apple, stimulates the gums, increases saliva flow and reduces the build-up of cavity-causing bacteria that harms your teeth.

But did you know that a lack of Vitamin C can promote Gingivitis?

Yep, that's right, a diet deficient in Vitamin C can promote bleeding gums which can lead to gingivitis if left untreated. You can read more about it here.

Most of us think of citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruit, as being the best source of vitamin C. A serving of orange juice, 3/4 cup, provides you with 60 mg/day. Although citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C, other not so obvious and sometimes surprising foods contain vitamin C as well. In addition to that morning glass of OJ, here are some ways to put vitamin C on your table:

Eat more broccoli. A 1/2-cup serving provides 45 mg of vitamin C.
Add a slice of tomato to your sandwiches. A small tomato provides 25 mg of vitamin C.
Slice up a papaya or mango for dessert. Half a medium papaya or mango provides 95 mg of vitamin C.
Think peppers! Red, yellow, and orange peppers have about twice the vitamin C of green peppers.
More obscure vegetables, like kohlrabi and jicama, provide about 45 mg of vitamin C per half cup. Just grate each into a green salad.
Believe it or not, potatoes contain vitamin C, too! A small baked potato has 25 mg.
Kiwi fruit, the fuzzy little brown fruit with the deep green interior, has about 55 mg of vitamin C.

So remember to eat your fruits and veggies and you'll be doing your body, teeth AND gums a favor.

Dog Days of Summer Sonicare Giveaway

2010-08-06T12:20:00.006-06:00

Periodontal Associates is celebrating the dog days of summer with a fabulous giveaway geared to keep you smiling!

The GIVEAWAY:

Prize: One (1) Sonicare FlexCare+ Rechargeable sonic toothbrush set with UV Brush Head Sanitizer, 2 ProResults brush heads (Compact + Standard), travel charger, travel case AND a 2 year supply of replacement brush heads (standard size). Price package valued at $250

Winner: One (1) Winner will be selected randomly from all eligible entries

Deadline: Giveaway ends 11:59pm MDT August 31, 2010

How To Enter:

Leave a comment below telling us why Summer makes you smile. It's that simple!

(Be sure to include a valid email address so that we may contact you if you're chosen. We will not collect emails nor use them for any other purpose than to notify the winner)

Optional Additional Entries:

Subscribe to our Blog
Follow Periodontal Associates (@theGumDocs) on Twitter and/or send out a Tweet about this giveaway
Become a Fan (or “Like”) Periodontal Associates on our Facebook page
Follow us on Google Friend Connect
Comment on any of our other posts
If you have a blog or website, link back to this giveaway and let us know that you did.

The Rules:

This giveaway is open to US residents, 18 years of age or older. Entries can be submitted until 11:59 pm MDT August 31, 2010. The winner will be selected via random draw and will be notified via email (please make certain to include an email with your entry and that your email is legit!). Winner will have 48 hours to respond. Failure to respond within 48 hours will forfeit prize eligibility to the second randomly selected winner.

Good Luck!

Finding a Periodontist in Denver - A Google Search Story

2010-07-22T00:18:00.000-06:00

What every mother-to-be needs to know

2010-07-15T14:32:00.004-06:00

Baby Steps to a Healthy Pregnancy and an On-Time Delivery

The test came back and it's positive – you're pregnant. Congratulations! Your mind is exploding with excitement, and you are creating a mental “to-do” list. While your list of tasks and questions continue to grow, it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure an on-time and safe arrival of your most precious cargo yet.

You've probably heard a few old wives' tales about pregnancy, including “A tooth lost for every child.” While it seems far-fetched, this wives' tale is actually based loosely in fact. Just as your tissues in your body are affected by pregnancy, so are your teeth and gums. What you probably didn't know is that the health of your gums may also affect your baby-to-be.

How does pregnancy affect your teeth and gums?

About half of women experience pregnancy gingivitis. This condition can be uncomfortable and cause swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue. Conversely, a more advanced oral health condition called periodontal disease (a serious gum infection that destroys attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold teeth in the mouth) may affect the health of your baby.

Is periodontal disease linked to preterm low birthweight babies?

Studies have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and preterm, low birthweight babies. In fact, pregnant women with periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that's born too early and too small. But what causes periodontal disease during pregnancy? The likely culprit is a labor-inducing chemical found in oral bacteria called prostaglandin. Very high levels of prostaglandin are found in women with severe cases of periodontal disease.

“Any infection, including periodontal infection, is cause for concern during pregnancy,” said Gordon Douglass, D.D.S., president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). “Pre-existing periodontal disease or periodontal disease that increases in severity during pregnancy can also increase a woman's chances of a preterm low birthweight baby. Because periodontal disease is often “silent,” many women don't know they have it, so a periodontal evaluation is definitely a good idea prior to becoming pregnant.”

Treating periodontal disease and/or removing gingivitis may also prevent other oral complications. “Beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy, expectant mothers often experience increased gingivitis also called pregnancy gingivitis that increases in severity throughout the eighth month,” said Douglass. “Significant progression of pregnancy gingivitis can lead to more severe periodontal infections.” The increase in estrogen and progesterone levels during this time causes the gums to react differently to the bacteria in plaque. This reaction causes swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue.

“The good news is women who treat their periodontal health prior to pregnancy decrease their chances of experiencing pregnancy gingivitis.” said Douglass. “Women should always take extra care of their oral health because their hormonal fluctuations can affect many tissues, including gum tissues.”

What if I'm diagnosed with periodontal disease during pregnancy?

If you're diagnosed with periodontal disease, our dental hygienists, Dr. Versman and/or Dr. Heller might recommend a common non-surgical procedure called scaling and root planing. During this procedure, your tooth-root surfaces are cleaned to remove plaque and tartar from deep periodontal pockets and smooth the root to remove bacterial toxins. Research suggests that scaling and root planing may reduce the risk of preterm births in pregnant women with periodontal disease. The added bonus is that the procedure should alleviate many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with pregnancy gingivitis, such as swelling and tenderness of the gums.
As you make your way through your “to-do” checklist, remember to check off a visit to your dentist or Periodontal Associates. This baby step benefits you and your unborn baby.

Premature births: the answers can't come soon enough

According to the March of Dimes, premature births have soared to become the number one obstetric problem in the United States. Many premature babies come into the world with serious health problems. Those who survive may suffer life-long consequences, from cerebral palsy and mental retardation to blindness.
The March of Dimes has launched a $75 million, five-year campaign to raise public awareness and reduce rates of preterm birth and increase research to find the cause. Until all of the answers are in, the March of Dimes recommends the following to reduce the risk and/or effects of a premature birth:

Consume a multivitamin containing 400 micrograms of the B vitamin folic acid before and in the early months of pregnancy.
Stop smoking.
Stop drinking and/or using illicit drugs, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs (including herbal preparations) not prescribed by a doctor aware of the pregnancy.
Once pregnant, get early regular prenatal care, eat a balanced diet with enough calories (usually about 300 more than a woman normally eats), and gain enough weight (25 to 35 pounds is usually recommended).
Talk to your doctor about signs of premature labor, and what to do if you show any of the warning signs.

Be sure to share this important health information with the Mommies-to-be in your life.
For an appointment in the Denver area, please contact Periodontal Associates at 303-755-4500.

The Best and Worst Foods for your Teeth

2010-07-08T13:57:00.005-06:00

According to MSNBC.

The BEST foods for your teeth:

Raw fruits and vegetables - An apple a day keeps the cavities at bay.
Water, water, water!
Low/non-fat dairy products. Yogurt is an especially good choice because it promotes healthy bacteria
Sugarless gum - Helps promote saliva. Sugarless gum with Xylitol fights acid that creates cavities

The WORST foods for your teeth:

Hard and sticky candies. No surprises here!
Dried fruit - The water has been removed and you're left with a lot of sugar. Don't stop eating these, just remember to drink water or brush afterwards.
Berries - Blueberries, strawberries, blackberries. Anything that will stain a t-shirt, will stain your teeth. Just remember to drink water after enjoying this healthy treat.
High sugar drinks - Juices and smoothies.
Sodas - Both regular and diet.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Have you hugged your Hygienist lately?

2010-06-24T13:45:00.000-06:00

Dental Hygienists: Your Mouth’s Best Friend

If you’ve been to a dentist recently, you’ve probably noticed something has changed. Your hygiene appointment is no longer just a cleaning. Today’s dental hygienists are as instrumental in early detection of oral problems as a dentist. Recently, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association formally recognized the importance of a hygienist’s role with regard to their patients’ oral health. At Periodontal Associates in Aurora, we are pleased to have Michelle and Carolyn as part of our team fighting the battle against tooth decay and maintaining healthy gums and bones in Denver and the surrounding communities.

During your appointment, your dental hygienist will:

• review your medical history

• remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth

• do a pocket-depth check of your gums to look for any signs of periodontal disease

• take x-rays (if indicated)

• clean, polish and floss your teeth

• check for signs of oral cancer

• explain how to treat or prevent any issues that seem troublesome

• formulate a home care plan to keep your mouth healthy

At Periodontal Associates, our hygienists will also follow up this treatment with an easy home care plan for you. You may notice your mouth is a little healthier. If so, you have one important member of our Denver dental team to thank, your hygienist.

Dairy Products: Good for Your Teeth and Your Gums

2010-06-17T14:02:00.002-06:00

Got Dairy?

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, eating dairy products not only fortifies bone and tooth health, but may also help promote gum health. In a recent study, people who consumed the lactic acid in foods like milk, cheese and yogurt reported it significantly improved the depth of pockets and firmness of attachment to gums, both indicators of periodontal disease. And studies show that good periodontal health may contribute to good health overall.

So hit the dairy aisle. It can go a long way to keeping your body–and your mouth–in tip-top shape.

Could Good Oral Health Prevent Dementia?

2010-06-15T12:18:00.013-06:00

Connection Between Periodontal Disease and Alzheimer's Disease

Periodontitis is a lifelong, highly prevalent, chronic inflammatory disease associated with stroke, cardiovascular disease, systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.

A new study by Noble et al published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry suggests there may also be a relationship between periodontal disease and dementia.

Dementia is a major public health problem likely related to a complex interaction between genetics, smoking and diseases associated with systemic inflammation, including diabetes and stroke. These risk factors have a similar systemic inflammatory profile to periodontitis which suggests that they may also provide a common pathway of atherogenesis related to systemic inflammation.

In a study of 2,355 people aged 60 years and older, Noble et al reported an association between a common periodontal pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and cognitive impairment. The researchers found individuals with high levels of P. gingivalis had 200 percent increased incidence of impaired verbal memory and subtraction test performance. This association adds to a growing body of evidence for a relationship between poor oral health and dementia.

Oral health problems including periodontal disease, caries, edentulism and inadequate preventive care are more prevalent with increasing age resulting in increased exposure to periodontal pathogens.

One possible reason is a decreased ability to perform plaque control due to arthritis and other physical impairments. Exposure to periodontal pathogens is ubiquitous in older adults who often suffer from arthritis and thus have more difficulty keeping their mouths healthy.

Furthermore, cognitive function is thought to be associated with nutrition. Loss of teeth in older adults may be associated with poor nutrition. Consequently, there may be a relationship between loss of teeth and artherosclerotic changes.

Could Good Oral Health Prevent Dementia?

In an editorial commentary, Dr. Robert Stewart at the Institute of Psychiatry Kings College London, notes the oral health of people with cognitive impairment should, at the very least, receive more clinical attention. He adds: "If there are good reasons to suspect a link between oral health and cognition, why has this received so little attention to date? The obvious but rather prosaic reason is the historic separation between medicine and dentistry. Clinical specialists have long been a hindrance to effective research (an example being the lack of attention paid to the vascular etiology of dementia) and it is about time that we accepted that disorders do not necessarily follow the way we structure our professions."

Reach for the Floss

2010-06-03T23:07:00.003-06:00

Still Not Flossing?

More Reasons Why You Should

We know you hate it, but flossing really does preserve the health and aesthetics of your smile. Here's how to do it right.
By Lisa Zamosky - WebMD the Magazine

Every six months, you visit the dentist for a cleaning -- and likely a lecture about the importance of flossing. But if you're like many dental patients, the advice travels in one ear and out the other -- much like, well, dental floss gliding between the spaces of your teeth.

"There is no instant gratification with flossing -- that's the problem," says Alla Wheeler, RDH, MPA, associate professor of the Dental Hygiene Program at the New York University School of Dentistry. "Patients don't think it does anything."

But flossing does about 40% of the work required to remove sticky bacteria, or plaque, from your teeth. Plaque generates acid, which can cause cavities, irritate the gums, and lead to gum disease. "Each tooth has five surfaces. If you don't floss, you are leaving at least two of the surfaces unclean,"Wheeler explains. "Floss is the only thing that can really get into that space between the teeth and remove bacteria."

Flossing, Wheeler says, might also be an overlooked fountain of youth. Gum disease can ruin the youthful aesthetics of your smile by eating away at gums and teeth. It also attacks the bones that support your teeth and the lower third of your face. People who preserve the height of that bone by flossing look better as they age.

Choosing the Right Dental Floss

Most floss is made of either nylon or Teflon, and both are equally effective. People with larger spaces between their teeth or with gum recession (loss of gum tissue, which exposes the roots of the teeth) tend to get better results with a flat, wide dental tape. If your teeth are close together, try thin floss (sometimes made of Gore-Tex) that bills itself as shred resistant.

Bridges and braces call for a defter touch to get underneath the restorations or wires and between the teeth. Use a floss threader, which looks like a plastic sewing needle. Or look for a product called Super Floss that has one stiff end to fish the floss through the teeth followed by a spongy segment and regular floss for cleaning.

The most important thing, though, is to choose floss you'll use. "I tell my patients, 'I don't care if you use shoe laces as long as you floss,'" Wheeler says. (Just kidding, of course.)

Flossing Tips

Keep it clean with these flossing tips from Edmond Hewlett, DDS, associate professor of restorative dentistry at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry:

Perfect your flossing technique. Use a piece of floss 15 to 18 inches long, slide it between the teeth, wrap it around each tooth in the shape of a "C,"and polish with an up and down motion.

Don't worry about a little blood. "Bleeding means the gums are inflamed because plaque has built up and needs to be cleaned away. Don't let that deter you," Hewlett advises. Bleeding after a few days, however, could be a sign of periodontal disease. Talk to your dentist.

Get a floss holder. If you lack the hand dexterity to floss, try soft wooden plaque removers, which look similar to toothpicks, or a two-pronged plastic floss holder. Both allow you to clean between teeth with one hand.

For more information on flossing and gum disease, visit http://www.periodontalhealth.com or call 303-755-4500 today to schedule a consultation appointment.