Revolutionizing Periodontal Disease Screening and Treatment with OFC and Alert 2™ Diagnostics

Posted on October 25, 2024October 22, 2024 by Robert Benavides DDS

In the evolving field of dental diagnostics, early detection is the key to effective management of periodontal disease. One of the latest advances in our practice is the utilization of OFC (Oral Fitness Check) by DentoGnostics, a groundbreaking tool that allows us to screen for active matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8). The presence of aMMP-8 signals ongoing collagen breakdown, providing valuable insight into the health of the periodontal tissues. When detected, this makes our providers cur...

Dr. Benavides: “Did We Overtreat: The Value of Proactive Intervention for the Periodontal Patient.”

Posted on August 23, 2024August 23, 2024 by Robert Benavides DDS

Disambiguating between Plaque-Induced Gingivitis and Stage II Periodontitis is an easy diagnostic feat. The difficulty increases when we attempt to finalize a diagnosis between Gingivitis and Early-Onset Periodontitis. As a reminder, according to The American Academy of Periodontology, it takes 15% of radiographic bone loss (RBL) for our patients to land at Stage I Periodontitis. The goal of this article is to present you with two cases that could be interpreted as borderline. Our goa...

A Dental Detective Story – When a 102% Surge in Bacterial Load After Scaling Unveils a Horizontal Transmission Tale

Posted on April 5, 2024April 4, 2024 by Robert Benavides DDS

In the world of healthcare, understanding the root cause of health issues is paramount to providing effective treatment. This principle was put to the test in a fascinating case that highlighted the importance of considering both clinical and personal factors in patient care. The case involved an unexpected 102% increase in bacterial load within a patient's mouth, despite having undergone scaling, irrigation, and decontamination—a procedural-set known to significantly reduce bacterial load. ...

Redefining Dental Care for The Reluctant: Technology’s Role in the New Mouth-Body Connection Era

Posted on February 2, 2024January 30, 2024 by Robert Benavides DDS

Challenge: Addressing the unique needs of a patient with a history of hesitancy towards dental care, compounded by complex health issues such as Tobacco Dependence Syndrome, Hypertension, and Prediabetes, presented a significant challenge. This task, however, was greatly facilitated by the integration of CBCT/OralDNA® technologies. These cutting-edge tools played a pivotal role in demystifying the pathos process, enabling a more clear and personalized approach to the patient's treatment plan....

Interview with Robert Benavides DDS

Posted on November 10, 2023November 10, 2023 by Robert Benavides DDS

Dr. McGlennen: What are the top two things to consider when you select a patient for testing? Robert Benavides DDS: It's crucial to evaluate both the Dental and Medical histories to understand their intricate interplay in the Mouth-Body Connection®. Our goal is to analyze how these histories manifest in our patient’s tissues. Utilizing objective testing data helps us discern deeper insights and offer more accurate and personalized treatment. Dr. McGlennen: What are the biggest benefits to usi...

The Transformative Power of Salivary Diagnostics in Dentistry for Personalized Care in the Mouth-Body Connection Era

Posted on September 15, 2023September 13, 2023 by Robert Benavides DDS

There's an age-old saying, "Change is the only constant." In the field of dentistry, we've seen many evolutions, from the tools we use to the methods we apply. One such evolution that had a deep impact on our practice is the introduction of salivary diagnostics. At first glance, like many others, we considered this technology to be disruptive. Yet, upon deeper reflection and application, it has woven seamlessly into our clinical culture, enhancing patient care and experience. Periodontal dise...