Ep. 35 - Periodontal Disease: Everything A Patient Should Know

This week on Beyond the Arches, Erica sits down with Done In One Boca periodontist Dr. Blake Hauer to break down periodontal disease in a way that actually makes sense, and explain why it matters so much for anyone considering dental implants or full-arch treatment.They cover what periodontal disease is (and how it starts as gingivitis), the early warning signs patients should watch for (bleeding, inflammation, tartar buildup, abscesses, tooth mobility), and how dentists diagnose and classify it using the American Academy of Periodontology’s staging and grading system. Dr. Hauer also explains why a history of gum disease can still affect implant health—even after teeth are removed—due to long-term changes in oral bacteria and an increased risk of inflammation.From there, the conversation shifts to implant complications, including key differences between periodontal disease (teeth) and peri-implantitis (implants), and why implant problems can progress faster if not caught early. They dig into the biggest controllable risk factors—especially smoking and uncontrolled diabetes—how A1C levels relate to healing, and why certain medications (like steroids) may be avoided for diabetic patients after surgery.Finally, they talk maintenance: why annual removal and professional cleaning of a full-arch prosthetic matters, what at-home care should look like (hello, water flosser), and why choosing a team that follows you long-term is one of the best ways to protect your investment.The takeaway: full-arch implants can do incredibly well, but your habits, health factors, and maintenance routine play a major role in long-term success.🎧 Listen now and go beyond the arches with us!💻 Visit the DIO website for more information: https://getdoneinone.com📩 Email questions or comments: [email protected]☎️ Speak to a Patient Care Coordinator: (561) 468-8812📲 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA AS WE BUILD OUR COMMUNITY! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BeyondTheArches TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@beyond.the.arches Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beyond_the_arches_podcast YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheArchesJoin our private, uncensored Facebook Group and talk with other current and future patients 24/7: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/12JXkZuHhkg/?mibextid=wwXIfrThank you for being part of the Done In One® experience!We’re excited to take you beyond the arches, one story at a time.