Dr. McGlennen: What are the top two things to consider when you select a patient for testing?
Robert Benavides DDS: It’s crucial to evaluate both the Dental and Medical histories to understand their intricate interplay in the Mouth-Body Connection®. Our goal is to analyze how these histories manifest in our patient’s tissues. Utilizing objective testing data helps us discern deeper insights and offer more accurate and personalized treatment.
Dr. McGlennen: What are the biggest benefits to using salivary diagnostics? How do the test results impact your patient care?
Robert Benavides DDS: The specificity of salivary diagnostics allows for a tailored approach to dental care. By pinpointing exact bacterial strains and their levels, treatment can be more directed and effective. Additionally, these results offer a tangible insight for patients, making them more informed and invested in their treatment journey.
Dr. McGlennen: What is your favorite part of the MyPerioPath® results? Why?
Robert Benavides DDS: The systematic approach through which we track progress. It’s a blast seeing cases improve over time and seeing how involved our hygiene and perio departments become. They truly become advocates for our patients. Conversely, it is great seeing our office rally together when the case does not improve. We come together as a team, analyzing the data, discussing potential solutions, and ensuring we provide the best possible care for our patients. Every case, whether improving or challenging, reinforces our commitment to excellence and the well-being of those we serve.
Dr. McGlennen: How do your patients respond to this technology? What is their #1 question?
Robert Benavides DDS: Patients are frequently impressed by the depth and clarity of information that can be acquired from a swish and gargle salivary sample. The most common question I encounter is, “Knowing what we know now, how does this change my gum and overall health outlook?”
Dr. McGlennen: What is your biggest challenge? How do you overcome that obstacle?
Robert Benavides DDS: Cost remains a concern for many. To address this, I highlight the preventive aspect of the test. By catching early-onset Periodontitis cases, we can potentially avert more extensive and costly treatments in the future. Our patients respond well to Research-Based Proactive Dentistry as opposed to an Emotional and Reactive approach.
Dr. McGlennen: If a new OralDNA® provider were to ask you for advice, what would be your best tip?
Robert Benavides DDS: Immersing oneself in the process and results is vital. The more familiar you are with the technology and its outcomes, the more effectively you can communicate its significance to patients. It’s always helpful to undergo the test oneself and your team to understand the patient’s perspective.
Dr. McGlennen: Where do you see salivary diagnostics in 3-5 years? 10 years? What would be the impact on your practice/patients?
Robert Benavides DDS: I anticipate salivary diagnostics becoming even more sophisticated, detecting a broader spectrum of conditions. In a decade, my hope is that it will be an integral part of routine health assessments. Such progress would inevitably enhance the quality and precision of treatments while honoring the patient with the clarity that is needed to have true informed autonomy in their Mouth-Body health.
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