Oral Health Contributing to Health Issues

By: Sarah Poteet, DDS, PA

February 25, 2022

The Challenge:

Due to dental anxiety, specifically the fear of being overwhelmed with dental problems, the patient finally took the necessary steps to address her chief complaint, “My gums are bleeding, and my teeth are sensitive. I want a more holistic approach to dental care. I feel like my mouth is contributing to my health issues.”

The Background:

  • Age: 37
  • Sex: Female
  • Medical History: Severe eczema since childhood, long term topical and systemic steroid for skin has resulted in steroid withdrawals, anemia, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) gut issues. Medications: Hydroxyzine (for anxiety), Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Turmeric supplement
  • Medical Lab results: A1C 5.3 (normal), CRP 8.2 (high), homocysteine 9.0 (normal), Vit D 15.9 (very low), DHEA-S 16 (low)
  • Last Dental Exam: Several years ago
  • Home Care: Electric toothbrush 2x/day and fluoride free toothpaste
  • Clinical Assessment: Several cavities and old amalgam fillings. Failed root canal # 3 and partially impacted teeth #17and #32
  • Periodontal Assessment performed on 6/22/21: 1-4mm generalized probe depths, moderate bleeding on probing, light plaque, light tartar, 15 areas with 4mm pockets, moderate gingivitis

The Solution:

  • Date of MyPerioPath® (Pre-Therapy) Test:6/22/21
  • Periodontal therapy: EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy® and ultrasonic with ozone water, applied ozone gases subgingivally to disrupt bacteria and reduce inflammation.
  • Systemic Antibiotic used: 500mg Metronidazole after gingivitis therapy, 16 tabs, 1 tab bid for 8 days
  • Home Care:  Sonicare electric toothbrush 2x day, Dentalcidin™ liposomal oral rinse, Closys® oral rinse, SPM Active® fish oil by Metagenics®, Probiora® oral probiotic, systemic probiotics for gut health
  • Other Notes: Stressed to supplement with Vitamin D
  • Date of MyPerioProgress® (Post-Therapy) test: 1/17/22

The Result:

Post-therapy observations show a remarkable reduction in pocket depths and bleeding. Started with 15 areas of 4mm pockets with bleeding and presented after therapy with only one 4mm pocket with bleeding. Remarkable improvement in inflammation, appearance of the tissue, and plaque.

For maintenance, she will continue to use Sonicare toothbrush, Closys® oral rinse, and Probiora® oral probiotic. Maintenance hygiene appointments will include EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy® removal, ultrasonic, and ozone therapy. Continued care with her medical doctor and her improved oral health will hopefully reflect in her medical labs.

The patient expressed gratitude and joy with the progress she has made in her oral health and is motivated to continue with her dental care habits.

About the Author:

Dr. Sarah Tevis Poteet is a native Texan from Waco. She graduated from Texas Tech University and then went to dental school where she earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She was one of a select few to also complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency, where she acquired training in complex restorative cases, implants, sedation, and surgery.

Dr. Sarah Poteet is a member of many prestigious dental organizations including the American Dental Association (ADA), Texas Dental Association (TDA), Dallas County Dental Society (DCDS), American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), American College of Dentists (ACD), International College of Dentists (ICD), International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM).

In addition to her busy practice, Dr. Poteet volunteers her time with the Women’s Junior League of Dallas. She is also a member of Munger Place Church. She is married to Bryan Poteet, and they have a daughter named Adelle “Elle”.