Up your nose and in your pocket!...what's the connection?

At the beginning of this year's cold and flu season, there was a little turmoil in the Robitussin aisle of most pharmacies. It appears that new research revealed an association of propanolamine (a popular ingredient to remedy nasal congestion) and increased incidence of stroke. Suddenly, those teaspoons of cherry flavored syrup for relief of the annoying symptoms of the common cold took on an uncommon risk. Simultaneously, the old nasal spray, delivering relief right at the source, started looking a lot better. In periodontal care we have been using a similar approach called "targeted delivery." The PerioChip is a prime example. If a previously treated pocket is not responding adequately, or is experiencing recurrent breakdown, the "Chip" with its medication can be targeted directly to the site to help achieve the results needed. Current studies indicate that up to three applications may be needed spaced at three month intervals to reach a stable endpoint. In similar fashion to our upstairs neighbors with clogged nasal passages, targeted delivery can provide periodontal relief without systemic side effects or repeated invasive treatment. There are limitations of course; I will be happy to review them with you.

Yankee Dental Congress 26 Epilogue

Special thanks to my students, past and present, and those of you who attended my Minuteman Lecture, Advanced Gingival Recession and Esthetic Dentistry, No Problem! There was a nice turnout and good questions. This topic clearly highlights a real interest of today's image conscious patient population. Prior to the meeting I sent a limited mailing announcing the date & time of my presentation and offering to come to your office for a personal presentation if you and interested staff were not able to come. Since a Minuteman offering must be concise, 45 minutes or less with valuable information and no BS, it lends itself to a mini-CE lecture at lunch time. My carousel projector is still loaded and ready; I will be happy to arrange a convenient time to come to your office to present on a small screen what was shown on the big screen in prime time at the meeting.

Web stuff

To the digital side of the Digital Divide; here are some facts I've learned about utilization of my web site www.perio-at-work.com since its launch. The traffic is primarily on the Information for Patients and Doctors, as well as Meet the Staff. This is good news since it demonstrates that the web is being used to enhance information we disseminate in the office. It also allows me to showcase my staff who have worked closely and virtually seamlessly with me for many years. This fall Maureen and Sara, my hygienists extraordinaires started their 24th and 18th years respectively with me. Ana, my trusty assistant is into her 12th year while Debbie and Rosemary in the front office have over 9 years logged in between them. Having a very professional, experienced and dedicated team like this allows me to really focus energy on the best care of patients...and that's what it's all about.