Apr
Dear Dr. Copeland,
I have been seeing a nutritionist in Pismo Beach. She had many medical tests done on me, one of which showed that I have a very elevated level of “Fusobacteria spp” in my gut. She said it often stems from an underlying infection going on in the mouth. She suggested that I make an appointment to see you so that she can see if I have any infections going on.
Since I live so far away from you and have a dentist in my area, I wouldn’t need to have a regular check-up. I would just be interested in checking my mouth for infection.
Thank you,
C. Jacobs
Dear C.,
Fusobacteria is one of the gram negative anaerobic bacteria that have become of increasing interest due to their association with gut issues such as tumors. They are a common member of the flora which lives on the skin and mucous membranes. They are opportunistic and when there is an area, such as an injury, or the right conditions present, the bacteria can overpopulate, causing what most of us would call an infection.
Any dentist or hygienist can determine if inflammation resulting from infection exists with a clinical exam of the oral periodontal soft tissue and radiographs or scans (better) to evaluate tooth supporting bone quantity and quality.
If debris such as food and/or tartar is present, that may be removed. This is traditionally accomplished with scaling with water irrigation and hand instruments. Procedure techniques vary with each practitioner. Bulk removal of debris alone is not removal (except in the bulk sense) of micro-organisms and, in my practice model, is not adequate.
To determine the presence of specific bacteria, however, samples must be taken for DNA testing or microscopic evaluation. Once the types and amount of creatures living in the sites is determined, they may be addressed by either systemic antibiotics, antimicrobial rinses. Ozone, which we use in our practice, is further discussed on our website.
At our practice we have both the DNA testing (cost is $134) and chair-side phase contrast microscopy (cost is $35) which shows the number, types, and the motility of the microbes. All periodontal work is accomplished with ozone, a triplet of oxygen which both fractionates microbes (3500 times more effectively than chlorine) and promotes tissue regeneration. After evaluation, a plan of action can then be made in which periodontal therapy is a part, along with hygiene, diet and lifestyle.
I hope this information helps determine how you might proceed finding the information and care you are interested in.
In good health,
Dr. Cynthia Copeland