Dr. Dayan earned her Doctorate degree from Harvard University in Oral Biology where she published on the subject of chronic inflammation as a predisposing factor for oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease. The connection between periodontal disease and other illnesses like diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease is extremely relevant today. She was recently invited to share her thoughts on the periodontal/systemic connection.
Dr. Dayan discussed the role of chronic inflammation as a root cause of many illnesses including cardiovascular disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. She revealed that the most current research related to Alzheimer’s Disease is blocking the effects of P. Gingivalis, one of the keystone pathogens of gum disease. You can read about the study here.
Other topics included the bidirectional relationship between gum disease and diabetes. At least 75% of diabetic patients also have active gum disease. Active gum disease, in turn, promotes diabetes and insulin resistance. Diabetic patients who undergo treatment for gum disease have fewer ER visits, physician appointments and higher health care savings. One of the safest and most effective treatments for gum disease in diabetic patients is LANAP laser treatment. Patients undergoing LANAP do not need to discontinue any of their blood thinners or heart medication. And the disinfection of the gums happens instantly. Studies have shown that immediately after LANAP the bacteria that cause gum disease are eradicated from the periodontal pockets. This means that the diabetic health can start to improve right away. You can read about this study here.
She also touched on the subject of sleep as it relates to chronic inflammation and illnesses. The World Health Organization has named the United States a sleep deprived nation. Sleep deprivation results in a chronic flight or flight response that increases chronic inflammation and stress hormones. Now wonder why sleep deprived people are at risk for heart attacks, cancer, diabetes, infecious diseases, weight gain and low testosterone. Dentists can play an important role in improving the quality of sleep for patients who are experiencing arousals from the collapse of the tongue, palate and throat muscles.
Dr. Dayan helps her patients overcome poor sleep and fatigue by offering sleep and bruxism guards, orofacial myology, myofunctional therapy and laser frenectomy (if needed).
She also welcomes new patients with diabetes who want to know if their gum disease might be contributing to their diabetes and how LANAP laser treatment can help .
If you have diabetes and you have been told you have gum disease or need to have teeth pulled, consult Dr. Dayan to see if she can help you save your teeth and help your diabetes. You can schedule a 20 minute video visit by clicking here.
You can also call the office at 310-205-0900 or send an email by filling out the contact form below. We look forward to hearing from you!