Dr. Colby told Rotarians that he loves Science, art and Technology. Being a modern-day dentist fits all those categories quite nicely. As eyes are the windows to the soul, the mouth became the window to the health of the body. Three ways oral disease cause systemic disease -
- Gum Disease - Harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the gums. It can grow from Gingivitis to Periodontitis causing bone loss. This is easily avoidable with flossing and hygienist visits. Tooth bacteria can lead to Diabetes, Heart Disease, Alzheimers, Arthritis and Lung disease.
- Tooth Decay - Decay can occur in the Enamel, Dentin and Pulp. You may have decay with zero pain!
- Loss of Bone - Bacteria can destroy the bone, and appears as a gum “pimple.” It can cause nerve damage and sinus infection with a large swelling or no sign at all. It can involve the eye as well.
Then came modern dentistry. 3D Technology allows the dentist to view teeth at multiple angles so abscesses are more visible — particularly when the infection reaches the sinus area. He does implants, veneers and crowns ready on the same day — as long as the patient chews with care. Sometimes, Resin works as the provisional tooth. Zirconia teeth can be carved out and printed in the future. He runs Free Dental Saturdays with over $100,000 of care donated. Multiple pictures showed the original mouth with a beautiful smile afterwards.
Dr. Colby has four daughters and tells multiple “Dad Jokes.” When he mixes his dental work with comedy, one patient said the jokes hurt more than the dentistry! He shared multiple examples including, “What did the Buffalo say to his son when he dropped him off at college?” The Rotarians were quiet until Dr. Colby said, “Bison!” Rotarians cheered — and groaned!