By Tamara K Robison, DDS, MBA, PA, Board Certified Pediatric Dentist – Naples and Marco Island
Cavities in children are the most common preventable chronic childhood disease known, five times more common than asthma. A cavity is a bacterial infection in a tooth and we know what specific bacteria are responsible. In the more commonly used surgical approach to treatment of cavities, the section of tooth is surgically removed and replaced with a non-biological material. In a medical model the steps to control disease involve, bacterial control, reducing risk, replacing the minerals in early cavities to reverse or stop progression, and maintaining the healthy state of the patient.
Salivary screening tests are available to determine types and levels of bacteria in a patient’s mouth. The dentist can assess family history and environmental risk factors for patients. Specific therapies and products can be recommended to patients to control and lower bacterial levels in the mouth. Reducing risk of dental disease involves controlling the amount of fermentable carbohydrates and acidic foods and drinks that a patient consumes. Frequent use of dental floss and good tooth brushing to keep the teeth clean is important. In addition, products are available to remineralize early cavities in an attempt to prevent progression to the point when a filling or crown has to be performed on a tooth.
Functional Medicine Based Dentistry applies the principles and practices of Functional Medicine with the practice of the art and science of dentistry. In a functional medicine model, extra time is spent emphasizing healthy lifestyles, good nutrition, exercise, and good sleep habits. In addition to the comprehensive exam, additional lab tests may be performed. There may be higher costs and out of pocket expenses in a Functional Medicine model of practice. Patients who are proactive and preventive in their approach to their health and the health of their family may prefer a Functional Medical approach, in addition to those who have grown distrustful of mainstream medical practice. However, many traditional dental offices stress the importance of healthy lifestyles and good nutrition to their patients. Dentists understand that chronic dental disease can be lifestyle related and as a result, preventable. Extended wait times in waiting rooms are usually the result of providers taking the same extra time with patients and providing the same individual consideration to preventive aspects of patient care. Time is money. In a Functional Medicine model, a patient pays upfront with the knowledge and expectation that extra time is built into the cost for the appointment. In many cases, in the traditional office setting the patients pay with their time and the providers pay with higher stress levels in an attempt to stay on time for patients.
In today’s challenging health care environment, patients and providers face many difficult decisions. By working together and having open and honest conversations with each other about the needs and expectations of all involved, patients can receive the medical and dental care the desire and the providers can be fairly compensated for excellent services and time they spend with patients.
Cosmic Smiles For Kids – Naples Location
15495 Tamiami Trail N. • Suite #125 • Naples, FL 34110
Cosmic Smiles For Kids – Marco Island Location
989 Collier Blvd. N. • Marco Island, FL 34145