In recent years, the connection between oral health and overall wellness has garnered increasing attention. Among the progressive approaches bridging this gap is the Bale-Doneen Method, a heart-attack and stroke prevention plan that emphasizes the pivotal role dental health plays in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Lubbock-based Hancock and Johnston Dentistry has thoroughly integrated this philosophy into practice, offering our patients comprehensive preventative dental care.
The Role of Dentistry in the Bale-Doneen Method
The Bale-Doneen Method stands out because it considers the entire body, rather than focusing solely on cardiovascular symptoms. Central to this method is the notion that oral health significantly influences cardiovascular health.
Research has shown that conditions like periodontal disease can contribute to systemic inflammation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues. A study published by the American Heart Association found that people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease with blood pressure values over 140 mm Hg.
Additionally, research has shown that those who had gone a year without seeing their dentist had a 50% higher death rate than those who went two or more times per year.
This underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and regularly consulting with dental professionals like us who understand the Bale-Doneen Method. We work alongside medical practitioners to provide a holistic approach to patient care. We focus on reducing oral inflammation, managing periodontal disease, and promoting overall wellness.
The kicker is that many people do not realize they have periodontal disease in its early stages. Warning signs include red or swollen gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, and bad breath that doesn’t go away easily.
To find out if you have periodontal disease, make an appointment with the Hancock and Johnston team and ask for an exam or standard teeth cleaning treatment. We can use a mirror and periodontal probe to look for signs.
The link between heart disease and periodontal disease is nuanced but studies have shown that it’s likely due to inflammation and oral pathogens that in turn cause systemic inflammation in your body (and heart). High-risk oral bacteria can be to blame, including: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola or Fusobacterium nucleatum.
To identify if your mouth contains these particular bacteria, the Bale-Doneen Method recommends using available tests from companies that measure oral pathogens through DNA analysis, including OralDNA, OraVital and Hain Diagnostics.
Our dentists believe in personalized care to target the inflammation and harmful bacteria. We recognize that every patient is unique and therefore our plans vary to target your unique situation.
Additional diseases linked to gum disease |
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| Alzheimer’s disease | People with severe gum disease are 70% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, and research shows six times faster cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients who have periodontal disease |
| Breast cancer | Those with gum disease have a 14% higher risk for breast cancer (36% higher if they smoke) |
| Pancreatic cancer | People with high levels of antibodies to periodontal bacteria in their blood were twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer |
The Bale-Doneen Method in Practice
Hancock & Johnston Dentistry understands the critical link between oral health and overall wellness. Our approach is rooted in the belief that preventing dental issues can have a profound impact on your overall health.
We apply the principles of the Bale-Doneen Method by:
- Assessing your unique dental health: Our team performs thorough examinations to identify any signs of periodontal disease or other oral health issues that could contribute to systemic inflammation.
- Collaborative care: We work with medical professionals to ensure a cohesive approach, addressing both dental and cardiovascular health concerns.
- Personalized treatment: We develop individualized gum disease treatment plans and pivot depending on how your body and mouth react to these plans. Some treatments include nonsurgical periodontal therapy, daily oral care to follow at home, and prescription mouthwash dental trays with antibacterial gel.
- Patient education: Our team shares knowledge with you about the connection between oral and cardiovascular health and encourages you to be proactive to prevent disease.
At your next appointment, you can get even more information by asking your dentist these questions:
- What are my risk factors?
- What needs to happen to improve my oral health?
- Are there any red flags in my medical history that stand out?
How to optimize your oral health to prevent heart attacks |
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| Brush everywhere | In addition to brushing your teeth and gums, brush your cheeks, the roof of your mouth and the vestibule (between lips, cheeks and teeth). |
| Flosser or Waterpik | This removes the biofilm between your teeth. |
| Use dental picks | These help remove buildup between teeth that floss doesn’t reach |
| Try high pH toothpaste and products that contain xylitol (toothpaste, gum, etc.) | |
| Go to bed with a clean mouth | Your mouth makes less saliva while you sleep, so it is crucial to disinfect at bedtime |
Schedule a Consultation Today
At Hancock and Johnston, our team knows it plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart disease. You decrease your chances of dying by 50% simply by making frequent visits to clean your teeth, compared with patients who continuously put off their cleanings.
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, don’t be worried — make an appointment today. It could be live-saving!
