February 19-25, 2012

Phoenix, AZ -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/06/2012 -- For most Americans, the month of February is synonymous with Valentine's Day, but unknown to most, February is also Dental Health Month.

That's why the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry (IALD) and Dr. K Michael Hood, director of The Arizona Center for Laser Periodontal Treatment is establishing Gum Disease Awareness Week (February 19-25). Mounting university research points to gum disease as a possible precursor to heart disease, diabetes, strokes, some cancers and even stillbirths. This is known as the Oral Systemic Connection. http://www.azsmiles4u.com/oral-systemic-connection.htm

The IALD and Dr Hood are united in educating the public about gum disease and simple, non-surgical treatment options.

For those people, who have the symptoms of gum disease -- red swollen or bleeding gums, loose teeth, or continual bad breath -- there's a FDA-cleared alternative to the painful "cut and suture" traditional gum surgery. Called the LANAP(R) protocol, this patient-friendly laser procedure has been performed on tens of thousands of people for more than thirteen years with positive results.

Dr K Michael Hood, a Lanap certified dentist located in Phoenix, Arizona, explains "the Lanap Protocol has given me the ability to treat periodontal disease in a more gentle conservative manner that is not available with the traditional "cut and sew" gum surgery."

You can make a powerful difference in the health of your viewers/readers by calling their attention to this important and completely treatable health threat.

About Dr K Michael Hood
Dr Hood, an Arizona native, has practiced dentistry for 35 years in the Phoenix area and was one of the first General Dentists to be certified in the Lanap procedure in the City of Phoenix and State of Arizona. For more information visit http://azsmiles4u.com/laser.htm

Contact Dr Hood:

602-234-3679
kmhaz@aol.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Phoenix, AZ -- (ReleaseWire) -- 02/01/2012 -- It's a New Year, a time many people choose to focus on their health. Did you know your mouth plays an important role in the overall health of your body? Not just by what you put into it, but also how well you take care of it. 3 out of every 4 Americans have signs of periodontal disease or gingivitis with almost 30% showing signs of the more severe disease, chronic periodontitis. These can be painful problems on their own, but they also cause problems in places you might not have considered…like your brain, or your heart.

Recent studies have discovered a strong relationship between oral health, the health of your teeth and gums, and other diseases including cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, fetal development, diabetes, orthopedic implant failure, kidney disease, colon cancer, prostate cancer, Alzheimer's, formation of blood clots, respiratory disease - COPD complications, osteoporosis, and heart attack. In fact, the existence of periodontal disease is now considered to be more predictive of heart attacks than high cholesterol!

There are three ways oral disease may affect your overall health. First, bacteria and other inflammatory mediators, called cytokines, enter saliva from the gums. From the saliva they adhere to water droplets in the air you breathe and get into your lungs. This can cause pulmonary infection and pneumonia which is especially troublesome for the elderly or those who may suffer from weakened immunity associated with COPD.

Secondly, bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the body's circulatory system through the inflamed gums and travel to all parts of the body. As the oral bacteria travels, it may cause other infections or contribute to diseases in other tissues and organs.

Finally, inflammation associated with periodontal disease may stimulate the liver to secrete a protein, C-Reactive Protein, (CRP) which may contribute to, or complicate, an existing disease like cardiovascular disease. Elevated CRP is more predictive of heart attacks than elevated LDL or "bad" cholesterol.

A new standard between dentistry and medicine is developing. As this "oral systemic connection" is more clearly understood. Dentists will play a greater role in the overall health of their patients. Many times, the first signs of unhealthy systemic conditions can be found by changes in the mouth. Physicians will also play a more active role in the "oral systemic connection." They should screen at-risk patients for common signs of periodontal disease, including bleeding gums, swollen gums, pus, shifting teeth, chronic bad breath, and family history of periodontal disease. When appropriate, they will refer them to dentists and periodontists who will evaluate and treat the condition. According to Dr. Hood, "This new era of dental/medical cooperation, will without doubt, increase longevity, improve the overall health and quality of life for all our patients".

Kamini, a 42 year old counselor in personal development, noticed that even though she was young, she was getting "long in the tooth" her gums were receding. She was told that she had gum disease, but did not want to have traditional "cut and suture" surgery. While doing an internet search, she found that Dr Mike Hood uses the Perioliase, a FDA cleared dental laser for the treatment of gum disease. Using the LANAP protocol, Dr Hood is able to get rid of gum disease. It's like Lasik for the eyes.

Dr Hood administers a local anesthetic to eliminate any discomfort. A general anesthetic is not need because LANAP is much less painful and traumatic than traditional gum surgery. A tiny laser fiber (about the thickness of several human hairs) is inserted between the diseased gum and tooth, and the infection is cleared away. The procedure is fast, taking only 2, 2hour appointments. (Traditional periodontal surgery can take up to eight appoints, with follow up visits for suture removal and checkups) Like most of Dr Hood's patients, who have the Laser treatment, Kamini did not need any pain-killers. And she's not "Long in the tooth!"

She is so happy with her pain-free surgery that she says, "It's astounding how technology comes around that makes such a difference in changing a persons appearance and health."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Saving Lives One Mouth at a Time.

Phoenix, AZ -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/20/2010 -- It is New Year's, a time many people choose to focus on their health. Did you know your mouth plays an important role in the overall health of your body? Not just by what you put into it, but also how well you take care of it. 3 out of every 4 Americans have signs of periodontal disease or gingivitis with almost 30% showing signs of the more severe disease, chronic periodontitis. These can be painful problems on their own, but they also cause problems in places you might not have considered…like your brain, or your heart.

Recent studies have discovered a strong relationship between oral health, the health of your teeth and gums, and other diseases including cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, fetal development, diabetes, orthopedic implant failure, kidney disease, colon cancer, prostate cancer, Alzheimer's, formation of blood clots, respiratory disease – COPD complications, osteoporosis, and heart attack. In fact, the existence of periodontal disease is now considered to be more predictive of heart attacks than high cholesterol!

There are three ways oral disease may affect your overall health. First, bacteria and other inflammatory mediators, called cytokines enter saliva from the gums. From the saliva they adhere to water droplets in the air you breathe and get into your lungs. This can cause pulmonary infection and pneumonia which is especially troublesome for the elderly or those who may suffer from weakened immunity associated with COPD.

Secondly, bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the body's circulatory system through the inflamed gums and travel to all parts of the body. As the oral bacteria travels, it may cause other infections or contribute to diseases in other tissues and organs.

Finally, inflammation associated with periodontal disease may stimulate the liver to secrete a protein, C-Reactive Protein (CRP) which may contribute to, or complicate, an existing disease like cardiovascular disease. Elevated CRP is more predictive of heart attacks than elevated LDL or "bad" cholesterol.

A new standard between dentistry and medicine is developing. As this "oral systemic connection" is more clearly understood, dentists will play a greater role in the overall health of their patients. Many times, the first signs of unhealthy systemic conditions can be found by changes in the mouth. When at risk patients are identified, a comprehensive Periodontal Risk Evaluation should be performed and the results sent to the patient's treating physicians.

Physicians will also play a more active role in the "oral systemic connection." They should screen at-risk patients for common signs of periodontal disease, including bleeding gums, swollen gums, pus, shifting teeth, chronic bad breath, and family history of periodontal disease. When appropriate, they will refer them to dentists and periodontists who will evaluate and treat the condition. According to Dr. Hood, "This new era of dental/medical cooperation, will without doubt, increase longevity, improve the overall health and quality of life for all our patients".

Dr. Mike Hood is pleased to offer an innovative outpatient treatment for periodontal disease. The Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure™ (LANAP™) is an FDA-cleared procedure to gently treat the diseased tissue without any cutting or stitching of the gums. Dr. Hood is one of only two dentists in Phoenix to be certified in LANAP, and has been elected a Fellow in the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry.

"I can now treat patients in my office with a gentle, highly-effective, well-established, and scientifically-proven procedure. LANAP reduces post-operative pain, recovery time, and helps me provide the best possible care," said Dr. Hood, of The Arizona Center for Laser Periodontal Treatment in Phoenix.

It is in every patient's best interest to keep their mouth healthy. It is critical that patients and physicians understand the Oral Systemic Connection and how periodontal disease can cause or contribute to a magnitude of other diseases and conditions throughout their entire body.

Call the Arizona Center for Laser Periodontal Treatment at 602-234-3679, or visit us online at http://azsmiles4u.com/laser.htm to learn about treatment of periodontal disease.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Journal of Periodontology, American Journal of Cardiology develop clinical recommendations on treatment of periodontitis, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Phoenix, AZ -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/13/2009 -- Cardiovascular disease, the leading killer in the United States, is a major public health issue that contributes to 2,400 deaths each day.

Periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the bone and tissues that support the teeth, affects nearly 75 percent of Americans and is the major cause of adult tooth loss. While the prevalence rates of these disease states seem grim, research suggests that managing one disease may reduce the risk for the other.

A consensus paper on the relationship between heart disease and gum disease was recently developed by the American Academy of Periodontology and The American Journal of Cardiology. The paper is published concurrently in the online versions of the AJC, a peer-reviewed journal circulated to 30,000 cardiologists, and the Journal of Periodontology, the official publication of the AAP.

Developed in concert by cardiologists and periodontists, the paper includes clinical recommendations for medical and dental professionals to use in managing patients living with, or who are at risk for, either disease. As a result of the paper, cardiologists may now examine a patient's mouth, and periodontists may begin asking questions about heart health and family history of heart disease.

Specific clinical recommendations include:

* Patients with periodontitis who have one known major atherosclerotic CVD risk factor such as smoking, immediate family history for CVD, or history of dyslipidemia should consider a medical evaluation if they have not done so within the past 12 months.
* A periodontal evaluation should be considered in patients with atherosclerotic CVD who have: signs or symptoms of gingival disease, significant tooth loss, and unexplained elevation of hs-CRP or other inflammatory biomarkers.
* A periodontal evaluation of patients with atherosclerotic CVD should include a comprehensive examination of periodontal tissues, as assessed by visual signs of inflammation and bleeding on probing, loss of connective tissue attachment detected by periodontal probing measurements, and bone loss assessed radiographically. If patients have untreated or uncontrolled periodontitis, they should be treated with a focus on reducing and controlling the bacterial accumulations and eliminating inflammation.
* When periodontitis is newly diagnosed in patients with atherosclerotic CVD, periodontists and physicians managing patients' CVD should closely collaborate in order to optimize CVD risk reduction and periodontal care.

The clinical recommendations were developed at a meeting held in early 2009 of top opinion leaders in cardiology and periodontology. The consensus paper also summarizes the scientific evidence that links periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease and explains the underlying biologic and inflammatory mechanisms that may be the basis for the connection.

According to Kenneth Kornman, DDS, PhD, editor of the Journal of Periodontology and a co-author of the consensus report, the cooperation between the cardiology and periodontal communities is an important first step in helping patients reduce their risk of these associated diseases.

"Inflammation is a major risk factor for heart disease, and periodontal disease may increase the inflammation level throughout the body," Dr. Kornman said. "Since several studies have shown that patients with periodontal disease have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, we felt it was important to develop clinical recommendations for our respective specialties. Therefore, you will now see cardiologists and periodontists joining forces to help our patients."

While additional research will help identify the precise relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, recent emphasis has been placed on the role of inflammation–the body's reaction to fight off infection, guard against injury or shield against irritation.

While inflammation initially intends to have a protective effect, untreated chronic inflammation can lead to dysfunction of the affected tissues, and therefore to more severe health complications.

"Both periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are inflammatory diseases, and inflammation is the common mechanism that connects them," said Dr. David Cochran, DDS, PhD, president of the AAP and chair of the Department of Periodontics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

"The clinical recommendations included in the consensus paper will help periodontists and cardiologists control the inflammatory burden in the body as a result of gum disease or heart disease, thereby helping to reduce further disease progression, and ultimately to improve our patients' overall health. That is our common goal."

For more information on how to manage Periodontal Disease, non-surgically:
http://azsmiles4u.com/laser.htm

If you have been diagnosed with Gum Disease, please feel free to contact Dr K Michael Hood for a complimentry Periodontal consultation at: 602-234-3679

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Dr Mike Hood Joins an Elite Group of Clinicians with the Completion of Evolution 5 and has been Elected a Fellow in the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry

Phoenix, AZ -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/11/2009 -- Dr K Michael Hood is proud to announce the completion of Evolution 5, the highest level of procedure-specific proficiency instruction in the comprehensive Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure™ (LANAP™) Training Continuum offered by the Institute of Advanced Laser Dentistry (IALD).

The IALD works in association with Millennium Dental Technologies, developer of LANAP, the first and only periodontal protocol to receive FDA clearance, and manufacturer of the PerioLase® MVP-7, the first laser specifically designed for and dedicated to the treatment of moderate to severe gum disease and proudly manufactured in the U.S.A. With his completion of Evolution 5, Dr Hood receives his "LANAP Proficiency" certification and has been elected a Fellow in the IALD..

"My dental practice is dedicated to the incorporation of the most advanced treatment options for my patients that are safe, effective and minimally invasive," said Dr Hood "No other laser company offers the same level of quality training as the IALD and Millennium. My completion of Evolution 5, the highest level of training currently offered in the LANAP Training Continuum, ensures that I am able to offer my patients consistent, predictable, reproducible clinical outcomes in treating Periodontal (Gum) disease.

The LANAP Training Continuum™ is a year-long, comprehensive, live-patient, hands-on training program that dentists undergo to ensure that they are safe and effective in the LANAP technique. The first three days of training, referred to as Laser BootCamp® (or Evolutions 1,2,3™), focus on safety and efficacy in the LANAP protocol. Upon completion of Laser BootCamp, dentists are granted a license to use LANAP. Day 4 (or Evolution 4) of the LANAP Training Continuum takes place after six months of LANAP practice and experience and emphasizes advanced techniques, methodology and laser operating parameters for optimal outcomes and clinician and operatory efficiencies. Upon completion of Evolution 4, dentists receive an Expanded Proficiency Certificate.

Evolution 5 takes place after at least 12 months of LANAP practice and experience and is an integral part of the LANAP training program, helping dentists hone and refine their techniques. Evolution 5 focuses on increasing energy density for even greater LANAP performance, versatility, adaptations and increased capabilities, as well as improved clinical outcomes and management methods for even the most difficult LANAP case types. Dentists who complete Evolution 5 have achieved one of the highest levels of clinical, live patient, hands-on training in advanced laser dentistry available today.

The IALD is the only active laser training institute in the United States recognized by the American Dental Association's Continuing Education Program (ADA CERP) and is an AGD (American Academy of General Dentistry) PACE recognized national continuing education (CE) provider. To date, more than 700 periodontists and general practitioners in the U.S. and Canada have completed this mandatory training and are treating more than 35,000 patients suffering from gum disease each year.

The American Dental Association (ADA) defines gum disease as an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the condition affects 85 percent of American adults aged 18 and older. LANAP offers patients a less painful and less invasive alternative to conventional gum surgery with fewer complications, and less pain than traditional cut and sew surgery. A current peer-reviewed study published in the esteemed International Journal of Periodontics & Restorative Dentistry reports positive consistent results of new root coating (cementum) and new connective tissue attachment (collagen) suggesting that the best possible type of healing can be obtained with LANAP for the treatment of moderate to severe gum disease.

Patients interested in additional information on LANAP should visit:

http://azsmiles4u.com/laser.htm

http://azsmiles4u.com/lanap.htm

Or call Dr Hood'S Office @602-234-3679 and Request a Complimentry Periodontal Consultation.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm