One of the strongest aspects of our practice at Island Center for Dental Excellence is the care and attention given to patients in our preventive and periodontal department. If a cleaning is all that is required, our hygienists are able to do this in a very comfortable and thorough manner. If a patient has more involved needs, our hygienists are fully trained and capable of providing the most up-to-date nonsurgical treatment available.

In 2000, the U.S. Surgeon Generals Office released a report declaring America's high prevalence of dental disease a "silent epidemic." The report aimed to raise awareness that oral health is an integral part of overall well-being and that no distinction should be made between oral and general health.

Periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone. As the disease progresses, bone literally dissolves away from the tooth causing teeth to become loose and infected. Gum and periodontal disease have been linked to infective endocarditis, diabetes, spontaneous preterm births, lung infections, and a weakened immune systems, as well as infections in joint replacements.

Unfortunately, gum disease is not curable, but it is preventable. Your degree of susceptibility is determined by such factors as daily oral hygiene, the health of your immune system, and especially your genetics. If you have had gum disease you will always be susceptible to recurring problems so it is very important that you continue to visit the dentist on a regular basis.

Using a simple test, we can detect early signs of periodontal disease and provide treatment which is critical to prevent further problems. Even though this procedure for early detection is simple, many people have never had it done.

The goal at the Island Center for Dental Excellence is to have our patients enjoy the benefits of a healthy mouth, with pockets no deeper than 3 mm and no bleeding upon probing. The mantra in Dr. Schulze's office is "Zero Tolerance for Bleeding" and it is becoming increasingly evident through research that this critical goal is not only good for your oral health but also for your general health as well.

Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss today! Anyone at any age is susceptible to gum disease. Routine and regular visits to the dentist are the best ways of detecting and treating gum disease during the early stages. Gum disease will not go away by itself or with intense brushing. The only way to control the disease is with professional cleanings that remove plaque under the gums.

Dr. Schulze takes the treatment of periodontal disease very seriously. Because there is a direct link between your dental health and your medical health, we at the Island Center for Dental Excellence perform a thorough periodontal examination on all new patients and we also screen our recall patients at regular intervals. Once we have completed the assessment we are then able to determine what type of cleaning is necessary for your mouth. Yes, there are different types of cleanings that the hygienists and Dr. Schulze will recommend for you based on your individual dental condition.

A computerized charting lets us know the status of a patient at any given time. This information can be shared with physicians and other specialists, and it is highly recommended that you bring a copy of your charting to your dentist up north if you leave for the summer.

In addition, at your recall hygiene appointments, one of our specially trained hygienists will examine and assess your current dental condition. In determining your current dental condition we will review:

  • Your current medical history
  • Conduct a head, neck and cancer exam
  • View and analyze current x-rays
  • Examine gums and bone structures for periodontal disease
  • Examine teeth for cavities
  • Complete a thorough cleaning appropriate for your dental condition
  • Understand your concerns and values
  • All of this is included in the normal fee for your regular checkup and exam.

 

General, Aesthetic, and Restorative Dentistry - Marco Island, Island Center for Dental Excellence Suite 200, Marco Island, Florida 34145
(239) 394-1004