Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer and Poor Hygiene

 

 

When visiting the dentist, it is easy to ignore the warnings from doctors and hygienists about the importance of brushing, flossing, and bi-annual visits.  Often patients disregard these concerns, but Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, and Dr. Beckman want you to know that home oral care is more than just keeping a clean mouth. Oral health is closely connected with the entire body as it is a gateway to the blood stream and to new diseases.  Periodontal Associates is constantly educating patients about the secondary effects on health and the progression of dangerous bacteria in the mouth.  In fact, gum disease resulting from poor oral hygiene and gum disease has been linked to the development of pancreatic cancer in men.

 

A study conducted out of Boston correlated the unnoticeable disease of periodontitis and pancreatic cancer after reviewing health related data from 51,000 men starting from 1986.  The study found men with history of gum disease have a 64% increased risk for developing pancreatic cancer versus men with great oral health.  (Maybe this is why there are so many male doctors like Drs. Versman, Heller, and Beckman in the Periodontal field.)  Furthermore, the more severe the gum disease is the higher the risk.  For example, gum disease can progress to the extent of recession, pocketing, and tooth loss.  These patients not only need to visit our Aurora, CO office for dental implants, but they now have higher chances of forming cancer in the pancreas.

 

This study has not been the only link between these two seemingly different diseases.  Former studies have also found links between tooth loss and risk of cancers like pancreatic.  Those suffering from gum disease have a higher level of C reactive protein (CPR) in their blood.  These are inflammatory markers responsible for the first response to inflammation in the gums caused by infection and have been specifically noticed in persons with pancreatic cancer.

  

Pancreatic cancer, versus other cancers, has the highest fatality rate among American men and women where less than 5% of patients survive longer than 5 years after diagnosis.  These numbers can be scary, and although it is not confirmed that gum disease is a cause or a direct link to pancreatic cancer, it is important to preserve your health as best as possible to fight off any chance of this and other diseases. 

At Periodontal Associates, Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, and Dr. Beckman are experts and professionally trained to diagnose and treat gum disease. Many of our Denver metro patients are sent by their general dentist as only Drs. Versman, Heller, and Beckman are specialists in curing the infections of the mouth.  Don't hesitate to visit our Aurora office for your next exam.  This visit could save your life and your smile.  Call us at (303) 755-4500 to schedule your comprehensive oral exam today.   



Welcome!

Is Periodontal Associates the Right Fit for You?

Welcome We extend to you a very warm welcome to Periodontal Associates in Aurora.  If you were referred to us by your dentist, relative or friend, we commend this person for their concern for you and your health.  If you sought us out on your own, then congratulations on taking the first step to a happy and healthier life. Be assured we will do our utmost to live up to this trust and provide you with fine health care on which our reputation is established.

 
You are Worth It!

 In the final analysis, the best reason for taking care of your mouth is-

v  Your Well-Being

v  Your Confidence in Yourself

v  Your Social and Personal Life

v  Your General Health

 

The rewards of investing in better health can be yours! 

Our Philosophy It is Drs. Versman, Heller, and Beckman's belief that optimal oral health and dental implants enhances self-esteem 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.

 

Our Team We have brought together one of the most experienced, caring and dedicated staffs in Denver to assist you with your individual needs.  We work closely with your general dentist – a key member of our team – to combine our expertise and experience to formulate the best treatment plan for you.  Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, Dr. Beckman and staff keep themselves abreast of the latest advances in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease and the placement of dental implants.

 

Your First Visit 

What should you expect during your first visit to Periodontal Associates in Aurora, CO?

 

v  We will ask you to share with us your health history

v  Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, or Dr. Beckman will perform a comfortable implant/periodontal and oral cancer exam.

v  Your questions and concerns are our number one priority and we invite you to discuss them with us

v  We have the most modern equipment available in an office designed especially for your comfort

v  We would be proud to take you on a tour of our office

 

Dental Implants

 What are the benefits and joys of dental implants?

 

v  Have solved many problems associates with tooth loss and dentures

v  Preserve jawbone and prevent facial collapse

v  Look, feel and function as natural teeth

v  Are placed in our office using a local anesthetic

v  Can provide a lifetime of comfort and function

v  Allow better chewing and taste of food

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and bone surrounding your teeth.  As it progresses, it destroys the bone which supports your teeth.  It is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.  The disease is painless and often not taken seriously, especially in the early stages when treatment is most effective.  Gum disease is something your general dentist or Drs. Versman, Heller, and Beckman can spot despite it's disguise which is another reason bi-annual exams and cleanings are crucial and a necessary step for good oral health.  With proper care, periodontal disease can be treated – even prevented.

Treatment Your treatment options will depend upon the severity of your condition and Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, and Dr. Beckman will explain them to you thoroughly with every opportunity for your input and questions.  Together we will arrive at a treatment plan which fits your personal needs.  During the course of your therapy we will maintain close communication with your general dentist.

The Benefits of Periodontal Therapy

Periodontal treatment is your first step toward restoring your mouth and teeth to optimal health and keeping your teeth for a lifetime.  Periodontal therapy will also help to improve:

v  Systemic Health               

v  Appearance

v  Chewing

v  Elimination of Bad Odors and Tastes

v  Increased Self-Esteem and Happiness

Fees and Insurance

Our fees are based on the time, skill and judgment necessary to provide optimal care.  You will be given an explanation of costs and time involved for your treatment, and we will assist you with financial arrangement if they are needed.  If you are fortunate to have dental insurance, we will gladly help you in filing dental insurance claims.  Periodontal Associates has an in-house insurance coordinator dedicated to fight for you with your insurance company to get the best coverage possible.  We also accept most major credit cards.  Please do not hesitate to ask us any questions you may have about your benefit plans, services, or our fees.

Dr. Ken Versman, Dr. Doug Heller, and Dr. Eric Beckman look forward to working with you and helping you meet your health goals and providing a life-changing smile.  Please let us know if there is anything else we can do to make you feel at home in our office, and do not hesitate to call with any questions!

Sincerely,

Dr. Ken Versman, Dr. Doug Heller, Dr. Eric Beckman & Periodontal Associates Staff