Dr. Bleckstein’s practice philosophy is to lead the way toward uniting the dental and medical sciences to ensure the delivery of the best oral health care for our patients. The identification and effective treatment of gum diseases forms the focus of this newly recognized dental – medical relationship.  Pursuant to the practive philosophy of The Centers for Clinical Oral Medicine, patients can be assured that their Dentist and Dental Hygienists have the expert clinical skills to effectively diagnose and treat their oral health care needs and, in particular, infections of the gums and surrounding oral tissues. And, if patients are at risk for systemic disease, we will coordinate with the patient’s medical health team to reduce their health risks and to promote a healthier and longer life.

In 2000, the Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. David Satcher, issued the first Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health in America. In this report he called for action to address the “silent epidemic of oral disease.” In response, many health organizations including the American Dental Association have identified both dental decay and periodontal (gum) diseases as “global infections” that have serious consequences. The past 50 years has seen the concept of oral health evolve from a narrow focus on teeth and gums to the recognition that the health of the mouth is critical to the total health and well-being of the body.

Periodontal infections (gum diseases) pose an especially serious concern, as these infections should no longer be considered just a dental problem.  Periodontal diseases not only can affect the way in which the teeth come together in occlusion (the bite); but, research is finding many correlations between chronic periodontal infections and serious medical problems such as: heart disease, stroke, pre-term low birth weight babies, diabetic complications and pulmonary diseases to mention just a few in a growing list of concerns.

The presence of healthy gums, in the absence of chronic periodontal diseases, will result in a better quality of life and can increase life expectancy by 10 years or more.  This is particularly true for patients who are at an increased risk of heart attack, have diabetes or who plan to become pregnant.