The Connection

For years, dentists have tried to prevent patients from cavities, gum disease, infections of the teeth and infections of the surrounding tissues of the teeth. Did you know that by preventing some of these issues, dentists are also helping prevent patients from other health issues such as elevated blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, increased blood pressure or more pain in arthritic patients? When there is inflammation from gum(periodontal) disease, or inflammation from an infected tooth, this increases inflammation in other parts of the body. This is because your immune system is working hard to protect the body from infection. The immune system does this by sending healing cells, with the help of blood, to an area to protect it from an infection but the side-effect to this, is swelling and inflammation. This means higher blood sugar levels in the diabetic patient, an increase in blood pressure and more inflammation in joints for the arthritic patient.  So what can people do about it?  People can start with good home care for their teeth and gums.  This means brushing a minimum of twice a day for 2 minutes each time you brush, making sure to remove bacteria at the gum line and flossing once a day to remove bacteria from between the teeth. Brushing and flossing alone will not do the trick. People should also see a dentist regularly to have a routine dental cleaning with a licensed dental hygienist (LDH).  An LDH is trained to remove bacteria from below the gum line where your tooth brush cannot reach, thus, helping to prevent infection or even detecting an infection early.

At Metropolitan Periodontists, P.A. we specialize in the treatment of gum disease. We use advanced technology to treat patients with active infection or chronic inflammation in their gum tissue.  Our hygienist is the only hygienist in the State of Minnesota to use a camera below the gum line.  She can see the hardened bacteria on the roots of the teeth and she is able to remove it with confidence for our patients. We also use a laser to treat gum disease which is more comfortable for patients than the traditional surgery done to treat gum disease.  If you or someone you know has been told that you have gum disease, schedule an appointment with us.  We would be happy to help you become a healthier you.

What is Wilckodontics?

Orthodontic treatments are well known for their bulky wires, metal brackets, and long-term treatment schedules. In fact, it hasn't been that long since it was almost considered a rite of passage for kids to sport a mouth full of metal during many of their years in school!

Wilckodontics promises to change the perception that a straight, healthy smile takes a long time to achieve. The orthodontic procedure is also known as Accelerated Osteogenic Orthodontics – AOO – and can provide the same results as traditional therapies, but in much less time. In fact, many patients discover the process takes less than a year, from start to finish, which is approximately 3-4 times faster!

How does it work?

The procedure was first developed by two brothers Thomas Wilcko, a periodontist, and his brother William Wilcko, an orthodontist in the 1990s. They worked together to create a new straightening system that focuses on manipulating and softening the bone, rather than just relying on applied pressure to make adjustments.

The AOO technique involves making small perforations in the alveolar bone. This encourages the bone to generate a large amount of calcium in order to heal. The period of healing is known as osteopenia, and lasts 20-55 days. During the period of osteopenia the bone is softer and teeth are more easily manipulated and moved using braces. For this reason, patients are fitted with braces first and then undergo the surgical procedure with Dr. Wilson.

Benefits of Wilckodontics

The main reasons to opt for Wilckodontics include:

• Shorter treatment time
• Increased strengthening of bone – this can result in a better facial profile and support for teeth
• Less discomfort with adjustments, since the jaw bone is already soft
• Choice of braces includes Invisalign
• Less chance of relapse – the bone generates a very strong bond, holding repositioned teeth in place.

Patients enjoy a lot of flexibility with this procedure – the most obvious advantage being the amount of time the procedure takes. Patients usually recover from the surgery within a week to ten days, and adjustments are made approximately once every two weeks. Ceramic or metal braces can be used with Wilckodontics, and there are no age restrictions. Because it takes a lot less time Wilckodontics is hugely beneficial for working adults who feel inhibited and restricted by long-term treatment.

So, if you are in the market for a straightened smile, it doesn't have to mean years of uncomfortable treatments! Contact Dr.Mark Wilson of Metropolitan Periodontists in Minneapolis about Wilckodontics and start planning for a beautiful smile in no time!