Whole Person, Outcome-Based Periodontal Therapy

Presented by: Michael McDevitt, DDS

Original Publication Date: September 25, 2021

Course Description: 

Presented by Dr. Michael McDevitt, DDS, this comprehensive course allows you to delve into the multifaceted world of periodontal disease and its far-reaching impact. Gain a deep understanding of the subject as you recall that periodontal disease is more than just a "gum problem"; it's a destructive inflammatory bone disease. Dive into the essentials as you memorize the four critical elements associated with periodontal biofilm infection and comprehend the significance of the four-step whole-person periodontal therapy. Explore the practical realm by grasping effective home periodontal therapies and treatments, and learn to explain the intricate relationship between airway resistance and its effects on periodontitis. Uncover the broader implications of oxidative stress and circulating proinflammatory molecules on cardiovascular complications within the context of periodontal disease. Lastly, apply your newfound knowledge to understand and fulfill the practitioner's responsibilities in whole-person healthcare. This course offers a holistic approach to periodontal care, empowering you with comprehensive expertise and practical insights.

Learning Objectives:

• Recall that periodontal disease is more than a "gum problem" and recognize it as a destructive inflammatory bone disease.
• Memorize the four elements associated with periodontal biofilm infection.
• Comprehend the significance of the four steps involved in whole-person periodontal therapy.
• Grasp the concept of effective home periodontal therapies and treatments.
• Explain the relationship between airway resistance and its impact on periodontitis. 
• Understand the implications of oxidative stress and circulating proinflammatory molecules on cardiovascular complications in periodontal disease. 
• Apply the knowledge of the practitioner's responsibilities in whole-person healthcare.

Speaker Bio:

Michael J. McDevitt is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. After graduating with honors from Emory University School of Dentistry in 1971, he served in the United States Air Force, receiving advanced training in periodontics. This experience confirmed his desire to help patients keep their teeth with a healthy periodontium, so he completed his formal residency in periodontics at Emory in 1975. Dr. McDevitt continues to pursue the latest and most effective diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for his patients through numerous continuing education experiences every year. The value of that ongoing education has become especially relevant in light of recent dramatic revelations in the field of periodontics. New concepts of disease processes, the role of a person's genetics, and new strategies to afford each patient more opportunity to be engaged in their treatment and solutions have evolved.  Over the last 20 of his nearly 40 years of clinical practice treating periodontal compromises, Dr. McDevitt has become a sought-after teacher. He has spoken at several state, regional, and national dental meetings, teaches graduate dentists several times a year as a member of the visiting faculty at the L. D. Pankey Institute, and recently has begun teaching in workshops for dental teams. His focus is on the compassionate, gentle, and precise diagnosis that every patient can understand, leading to each patient finding they can make healthy decisions consistent with what is in their own best interest.