Complete Health Dentistry starts with the Complete Health Baseline, which identifies patient symptoms integrated with the medical history. Oral pathogen and home sleep tests are ordered when appropriate. According to Bradley Bale and Amy Doneen, no cardiovascular preventive program can be successful without an oral systemic and airway component.
Bredesen also states that to alleviate and prevent cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s, we must address:
- Inflammation: Restorative sleep and an open airway are vital to reduce inflammation. Of course, diet and exercise are essential as well.
- Trophic Factors: Thyroid, Estrogen, Testosterone
- Infections and Toxins:
- High-risk oral pathogens have been discovered in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Bredensen identifies 3 in particular, including P. Gingivitis and Treponema.
- Only in REM sleep is the brain able to rid itself of toxins. The blood brain barrier becomes more porous with Sleep Apnea, allowing toxins and infections into the brain.
- Lastly, heavy metals such as mercury, lead and arsenic contribute to the decline of the brain. It is important to get your heavy metals tested by your dentist or functional medicine practitioner.
The dental team plays a key role in opening the airway and eliminating high-risk pathogens. There is a strong correlation between certain anaerobic oral pathogens and cardiovascular disease, stroke and dementia. The dental hygienist, along with our other team members, will help our patients to create a clean environment that supports good bacteria and neutralizes the bad actors.
Dentists are now able to assist in opening the airway day and night through appliances and devices like our ACG™ System.