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Florida’s Largest Health Care Information PublicationsBrevard Health Care News

FEATURED ARTICLES

Providing Health Care Information Since 1987

Spring 2018TAKE ME HOME!

A PUBLICATION OF FLORIDA HEALTH CARE NEWS, INC.

Richard Leong, Jr., DDS, P.A.

Hi-Tech Smiles

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2Modern Symfony

The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery

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GreenMDnow

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Back in Touch

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(see Reliable Smiles, page 4)

CLARK F. BROWN, JR., DDS, P.A.WILLIAM S. VAUGHN, DMD

Reliable SmilesDental implants and bridges assure superior function and aesthetics

L aurent Moriniere is a native of Martinique in the French Caribbean. He relocated to the United States in 1981 and

settled � rst in West Palm Beach. After eight years, he moved to Key Largo, where he owned an Arby’s® restaurant. Eventually, he sold the restaurant and dabbled in residential construction.

In 2001, Laurent made a home on Merritt Island. Now retired, he � nally had a chance to concentrate on his own needs, and he really needed to � nd a dentist for what had become a shabby smile.

“About four years ago, I was having problems with my two front teeth,” he shares. “� ey were very bad. � ey were loose, and the bone underneath was infected. I was having trouble chewing because I was afraid I’d break my teeth. � ey were almost ready to go as it was because the bone was so rotten.

“With my teeth in that condition, I avoided eating meat. I ate a lot of � sh and soft vegetables. I didn’t have any pain, but I was embarrassed by my smile. I sometimes put my hand in front of my mouth to cover my teeth.”

It was one thing to admit he needed a good dentist to repair his teeth and restore his smile, but Laurent also had to acknowledge he didn’t have the slight-est idea where to turn to have the work done. � en, serendipity stepped in, and he found a resolution to his problem.

“I was at the eye doctor, and I saw a copy of Brevard Health Care News,” Laurent recalls. “� ere was an article in it about Dr. Brown and dental implants. It was a very good article, so I went to see him.”

In that newspaper, Laurent read about Clark F. Brown, Jr., DDS, who, along with his associate, William S. Vaughn, DMD, provides the full scope of dental services at Implant Dentistry of Florida in Melbourne. Dr. Brown and Dr. Vaughn perform cosmetic and gen-eral dentistry as well as all phases of dental implant surgery and smile restoration.

During Laurent’s � rst appointment at Implant Dentistry of Florida, Dr. Brown thoroughly examined Laurent’s mouth and took x-rays. After his evaluation, the den-tist developed a complete treatment plan.

“Laurent’s two front teeth were affected by gum disease, and there was a great deal of root surface showing,” reports Dr. Brown. “The teeth were also a bit unsightly and needed to

come out. I suggested an all-porcelain bridge, secured by his natural teeth, to replace the extracted teeth.”

“Dr. Brown told me he had to pull the two front teeth and another tooth on the left side of my jaw,” relates Laurent. “He said he would make a bridge for my front teeth and place a dental implant in the other tooth space.

“During a forty-� ve-minute meet-ing, Dr. Brown explained exactly what he was going to do and what my mouth would look like with the bridge. I was satis� ed with what he said, so we started the process the next week.”

Ultimate Aesthetics� e bridge Dr. Brown created for Laurent is all porcelain, which provides ultimate aesthetics. Previously, most bridges were made of a mixture of materials.

“In the past, we used porcelain-fused-to-metal or porcelain-fused-to-gold bridges,” verifies Dr. Brown. “With these, the underlying structure was metal, and porcelain was baked over the top of it. However, if there was any gum recession, the metal would become exposed as a little, black line along the gumline where the porcelain thinned.

“With all-porcelain bridges, we use a zirconia substructure with porce-lain baked on top. � e big di� erence is

Laurent Moriniere

HealthSouth Treasure Coast Rehabilitation Hospital

Multi-Trauma Program

Visiting Nurse AssociationBalancing Act

Lake Washington Foot & AnklePlantar Warts

Regenerative Biologics InstituteRegenerative Medicine

to the Max

Hibiscus CourtPlenty of Time for Fun

Merrill A. Grant, MS, DMD, P.A.Beware of Bargains

Implant, CosmetIC and General dentIstry

James N. McManus, MDGary J. Ganiban, MD

Michael N. Mandese, OD, FAAOHetal D. Vaishnav, MDPatricia K. LaFleur, MD

Jason K. Darlington, MDEric R. Straut, OD

Visit The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery online at www.SeeBetterBrevard.com

When it comes to your eyesight, only the best will do. Please call to schedule a comprehensive eye examination with one of the specialists at The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery. There are four offi ces to serve you.

Melbourne W. NASA Blvd., Suite

Rockledge S. Woods Drive

Palm Bay Babcock Street NE

Titusville Garden Street

(321) 722-4443

Comprehensive eye evaluations

James N. McManus, MD, is board certi� ed by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He graduated cum laude from Dartmouth College in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree and earned his medical doctorate from the University of Massachusetts in 1983. He completed his residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical School and his internship at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center

in Worcester. Dr. McManus is a member of the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Brevard County Medical Society, the Florida Medical Association and the Florida Society of Ophthalmology.

Modern Symfony®Extended range of focus helps people see close up

and at a distance

P hiladelphia native Frank Armstrong has worn contact lenses since he was 12 years old. Over the years, his eyesight progres-sively deteriorated, and his lens prescription

became stronger and stronger. After his retirement two years ago, Frank noticed his vision was no longer sharp, even with his contacts.

“It started getting bad, especially at night, when my vision was unclear,” he describes. “Seeing was a challenge, and I became less con� dent in my ability to see well enough to drive at night.

“I saw halos, and the brightness of the headlights from the cars coming toward me would wash everything out. I couldn’t see anything and almost had to guess where I was on the road.

“I also like to read, and I was having to rely a lot on reading glasses, which I find terribly incon-venient. I would be constantly putting them on and taking them off.”

When Frank went to his eye doctor, the doctor sus-pected Frank had cataracts and referred him to James N. McManus, MD, of � e Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery in Melbourne. Dr. McManus confirmed the cataract diagnosis and scheduled Frank for surgery. Before the procedure, they discussed replacement lenses for Frank’s cloudy natural lenses.

“I did my research and noted that with some of the lenses, I would have to lean on reading glasses a lot,”

states Frank. “When Dr. McManus said there was a new type of lens that would enable me to read without glasses, I opted for that. � at was the main driving force for me to select the Tecnis Symfony lens.”

� e Symfony lens is among the latest generation of multifocal lenses, which are lenses that allow patients to see at more than one distance. Older generation multi-focal lenses enabled patients to see in the distance and up close, but they proved to be less e� ective in provid-ing clear vision in the intermediate range, which is so important for today’s active people.

“� e intermediate distance is essentially the work-ing range,” notes Dr. McManus. “� is is the distance for people to look at their cells phones, the speedom-eter and dashboard in their cars, and their computers. � is distance is usually not well treated with conven-tional multifocal lenses.

“� e Symfony allows patients to have what’s called blended vision or extended depth of focus. It enables patients to see distant and intermediate ranges. � e Symfony decreases the patient’s dependency on corrective lenses, so it was a good option for Frank.”

Seeking ExpertiseSnowbird Barbara Arnold spends most of the year in Melbourne, but returns to her native Maine for the sum-mer months. � e last time she was there, she saw her eye doctor for a routine examination. � is time, though, she had some new symptoms to report.

“I’ve had poor eyesight my whole life,” Barbara relates. “I was one of those kids who wore big, thick glasses. � en, when I was a teenager, I got con-tact lenses. But I always struggled to have good vision.

“Last summer, I noticed my vision was blurry, and I wasn’t able to see like I used to. I was having trouble driving at night because of the blurriness and glare. I made an appointment for a new prescrip-tion, but my eye doctor told me I had cataracts.”

� e doctor in Maine o� ered to do the surgery, but Barbara wanted a surgeon who specializes in cataract surgery to do her procedure. A friend was a patient of Jason K. Darlington, MD, at � e Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery and highly recom-mended him. When she returned to Florida, Barbara made an appointment with Dr. Darlington.

“Dr. Darlington explained my situation and then talked to me about the di� erent types of replacement lenses available,” says Barbara. “He wanted to make sure I was well-informed as to the choices available. But he left the decision up to me. I really gave it some thought, and I picked the Symfony lens.”

Barbara had a secondary issue a� ecting her vision. In addition to cataracts, she also had a great deal of astig-matism, a defect in the curvature of the cornea. � is caused her to be completely dependent on glasses for every aspect of her visual needs. In the past, multifocal lens implants could not correct astigmatism.

“Barbara had a great deal of astigmatism in both eyes,” con� rms Dr. Darlington. “Just a few years ago,

her lens implant options would have been quite limited. She would likely still need glasses for both distance and near vision. Today, the options have improved with the newer-technology lenses.

“One bene� t of the Symfony lens is that it not only provides extended range of vision, it also treats astig-matism. With this lens, we do not have to make extra incisions in the eye to reshape the cornea and correct the astigmatism.”

Life Without GlassesThe procedures to remove Frank’s and Barbara’s cataract-laden natural lenses and replace them with Symfony lens implants made a big di� erence in both their lives.

“After my procedures, my eyes were 20/20 in one eye and 20/15 in the other – basically perfect vision,” marvels Frank. “It was quite a revelation, after wearing

contacts for most of my life, to see very clearly when I woke up in the morning and not need to think about contacts.

“The Symfony lenses have made a big difference. I don’t wear reading glasses anymore. I don’t even carry reading glasses. I can read everything I need to read and want to read without them.”

Barbara also experienced suc-cessful results after her cataract procedures. She says she’s still in shock because the improvement in

her vision was apparent so quickly after surgery.“� e next day, I had 20/20 vision,” she enthuses.

“It’s amazing. I’ve never seen this well before. Now, I don’t need glasses or contacts for anything. I can read. I can see long distance and up close. � e blurriness is totally gone. I have great vision now.

“Dr. Darlington and the sta� at � e Eye Institute for Medicine and Surgery are very friendly. Getting cataract surgery with the Symfony lenses is one of the best things to ever happen to me.”FHCN article by Patti DiPanfilo. Photos by Nerissa Johnson. mkb

“It’s amazing. I’ve never seen this well before.

Now, I don’t need glasses

or contacts for anything.”

- Barbara

Jason K. Darlington, MD, graduated with highest honors from the University of California Davis. He attended UC Davis Medical School, followed by an internship at Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego. He completed his residency in ophthalmology at UC Davis. His fel-lowship in cornea diseases, transplants, cataract surgery and other advanced anterior segment surgery, glaucoma management and surgery,

and LASIK and refractive surgery was completed at the prestigious Philips Eye Institute in Minneapolis under the direction of Thomas Samuelson, MD, and Richard Lindstrom, MD. Dr. Darlington is certi� ed by the American Board of Ophthalmology.

Frank Armstrong

Barbara Arnold

Page 2 | Brevard Health Care News | Spring 2018 ophthalmoloGy

Balancing ActFall prevention program reduces fear, risk of falling

P eggy Benton has been a nurse for more than 40 years, but during a career in which she has largely served in the

administrative and marketing areas of the profession, she has spent a lot less time on her feet than most nurses do.

Learn more about the Visiting Nurse Association on the internet at www.vnatc.com

Peggy has twice leaned on the VNA for service following knee surgery.

Visiting Nurse Association Delivering the highest

quality home health care

Vero Beach

(772) 567-5551Melbourne

(321) 752-7550

Peggy, 75, is convinced then that the reason she has twice needed to undergo left knee replacement surgery the past two years is because of normal wear and tear, her many years of jogging and plain old bad luck.

“After the � rst surgery, the x-rays they took all looked perfect, but for some reason, my knee was still slipping out of the joint,” Peggy explains. “After a few months of dealing with that, I � nally said, We’re going to have to re-do this, and the doctor agreed.”

The second knee operation has so far proved to be more successful. Nevertheless, it has left Peggy in the same precarious situation she was in following the � rst, meaning she is temporarily at a greater risk than usual for a fall.

It was her vast knowledge of the dan-gers inherent in that risk of falling that prompted Peggy to call on the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) for aid follow-ing her � rst surgery and to call on the VNA yet again following the second.

Comprehensive CareFor more than 40 years, the VNA has pro-vided comprehensive, compassionate and innovative in-home home health care to its community. Since its inception, the VNA has grown exponentially, and so has its vast array of available health care services.

� e VNA o� ers a variety of clinical disciplines in which skilled nurses pro-vide physical, occupational and speech therapy that in some cases employ the use of leading-edge equipment previ-ously available only in hospitals.

Peggy bene� tted from the VNA’s fall prevention program, which is designed for patients such as Peggy who are considered to be at a high risk for falling.

“In our fall prevention program, we have physical and occupational thera-pists go to the home and assess not only the patient’s health but also their living environment,” explains Margaret Olsen, manager of therapy services at the VNA.

“When assessing the patient, the ther-apist puts the patient through a battery of what we call standardized and validated tests that determine their level of balance and strength. � en we look to see how the patient is actually walking.

“We note whether they are using any type of device, such as a walker or a cane or whatever it might be that they came home from the hospital with. Finally, we check to make sure that throughout the home, everything is as safe as it can possibly be.”

In assessing the safety of the home, the nurses and therapists at the VNA inspect every room and suggest changes that should be made in those rooms to ensure that the risk of a fall is reduced as much as possible.

Recommendations can range from the simple elimination of a throw rug or bath mat on which the patient might stumble to the addition of night lights, grab bars in the shower or bath tub, or an elevated toilet in the bathroom.

Prevention a Priority“It’s all about safety and prevention because as we get older, and especially if you are someone who has just returned home after having surgery, the danger of a fall occurring becomes much greater,” Margaret educates.

“The statistics tell us that about a third of our patients – or people in gen-eral sixty-� ve or older – su� er a fall every year. � at number increases to about half the population for anyone around the age of eighty. And for someone that age, a fall can be devastating.

“You can fracture your hip, break your arm or even get a head injury. And should that hap-pen, it’s a big impact on your life. � at’s why the prevention part is really, really important for someone such as Peggy because one of the common things that can cause a fall is medication.”

Peggy can attest to that. She says the medications she was prescribed to keep her comfortable following each of her two knee surgeries had a tendency at times to make her woozy and therefore more sus-ceptible to a fall.

That’s one of the reasons that fol-lowing her � rst surgery, Peggy acted on the VNA’s suggestion to have grab bars installed in the shower she uses most often and to have an elevated toilet seat installed in her master bathroom.

She says the additions have been lifesavers.

“� e door to the shower that I use is wide enough to step through, so they put the bars by the door and on the wall. � ey make it easier to get in and out,” Peggy relates. “And they’re not big bars at

all. You can hardly even tell they’re there. � ey’re just perfect.

“� ey also suggested that I have an ele-vated toilet installed, and I have to say, that has really made a di� erence. It’s so much easier not only on your knees but on your hips when you don’t have to sit down so far. � e elevated height was worth the money.”

With her bathrooms already re-� t for enhanced safety, Peggy has leaned on the VNA for the care they provide through physical therapy during her latest recovery from knee surgery.

“Just as they are when they’re look-ing through the house to see what has to be done to make it safer, they’re very

thorough,” P e g g y s a y s o f the VNA’s nurses and p h y s i c a l therapists.

“� ey go over everything to make sure you’re safe with your postoperative care.”

Physical therapy sessions are always conducted in accordance with the doc-tor’s speci� c orders, but in many cases, the therapists from the VNA are free to use therapies they consider most e� ective when treating the patient.

Personalized Physical Therapy“They work on balance, pain control – whatever it is they need to get the indi-vidual back to what he or she was doing before having surgery, which we refer to as the patient’s prior level of function,” Margaret shares.

“We also bring in people who can help patients with what we call the activi-ties of daily living. If the patient needs help making meals or doing laundry, getting dressed or bathing, we have assistants who can help with all of that.”

As a working nurse, Peggy had prior knowledge of the services o� ered by the VNA before undergoing knee surgery for the � rst time. � e VNA’s reputation for superb service is one reason she twice sought their help.

“I currently work in the community wellness area, and I know that the care the VNA provides is the best you can � nd,” Peggy raves. “� ere are quite a few agencies around here like them, but they are by far the best and have been around the longest.

“Now, I can speak from personal experience when I say they do phenome-nal work. � ey helped me make my home safer, and their therapists are very atten-tive. � ey’re kind, they listen to what you have to say and they take great care of you.

“� ey even call to check up on you and make sure you’re doing well. From a strength and conditioning standpoint, they gradually increase the therapy so that you can get back on your feet and feel strong again as soon as possible.

“Everything they do is just great, and I’ve already recommended them to some friends, including a neighbor who recently had hip replacement surgery. Like me, she was just thrilled with everything they did for her.’’FHCN article by Roy Cummings. Photos by Nerissa Johnson. mkb

“I can speak from personal experience when I say they do

phenomenal work.”

- Peggy

Spring 2018 | Brevard Health Care News | Page 3home health Care

(continued from page 1)

zirconia is tooth colored, so if there is any gum recession, there will be no black line. � is makes the all-porcelain bridges more aesthetic when patients � rst get them and in the long run.”

Dr. Brown also placed a dental implant in the space left by the missing tooth on the left side of Laurent’s mouth. It wasn’t a front tooth, but it was still in his smile line. � e dentist topped the implant with an all-porcelain crown made using the practice’s CEREC technology.

CEREC is a computer-based machine that enables the dentist to measure, design and fabricate porcelain restorations right in the o� ce in a single visit.

“With implants, there is the screw-like body, which is surgi-cally placed into the bone, then the abutment, which screws onto the implant, and then the crown that is cemented on top of the abutment,” describes Dr. Brown. “With our

CEREC, we are able to make what’s called a TiBase, which enables us to improve the crown’s appearance.

“Traditionally, the abutment is made of metal, so if there is any gum recession, the metal can show and be somewhat unsightly. With the TiBase, we can make the abutment out of zirconia or e.max®, which is another porcelain material. Now, we have a tooth-colored abutment, and we eliminate those aesthetic problems that can occur over time.”

Congratulations in OrderLaurent is very happy with his results. His new bridge is both aes-thetically pleasing and fully functional, and he’s proud of his new teeth and restored smile.

“� e � nished bridge is excellent,” he raves. “� e color of the teeth matches my lower teeth, and everything is perfect. Now, I have no problem smiling and showing my teeth.

“I have no trouble chewing, either. I can eat good meat, hard breads, anything hard with no problem.”

For more information, please visit www.drimplant.com

State-of-the-art dental care

Dr. Brown and his team look forward to meeting the readers of Brevard Health Care News. For

additional information or to schedule an appointment, visit or call the o� ces of Implant

Dentistry of Florida in Melbourne at:

W. Hibiscus Blvd.

(321) 259-9429

Clark F. Brown, Jr., DDS, is board certi� ed by the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, San Diego, and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Georgetown University. Dr. Brown served as a dentist in the US Air Force from 1978 to 1981. He has been in private practice in Melbourne since 1981. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry, International Congress of Oral Implantologists, American Society of Osseointegration and American College of

Forensic Examiners and is a fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

William S. Vaughn, DMD, earned his undergraduate degree from Kentucky Wesleyan College and his Master of Science degree in Oral Biology and Doctor of Oral Medicine degree from the University of Louisville. Dr. Vaughn has participated in clinical research involving cone beam CT scanning, phar-macology and implant planning, and has been published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants. He is a member of the American Association of Implant Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry and American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. Dr. Vaughn has been in practice at

Implant Dentistry of Florida since August 2016.

State-of-the-art

Reliable Smiles With his new bridge, Laurent no longer hides

his smile

� e dental implant and crown Dr. Brown placed on Laurent’s left side are also functional and appealing. Laurent is so satis� ed that he plans to have Dr. Brown place another implant in the space that will be left by a molar that now needs to be removed. Laurent also shares his good fortune with those around him.

“I’ve already recommended Dr. Brown to two or three of my friends,” he notes.

Laurent’s good words don’t stop there. He has a special message for Dr. Brown himself.

“I congratulate him for all the great work he did for me,” says Laurent. “I am very, very pleased with Dr. Brown and Implant Dentistry of Florida for what they did for me!”FHCN article by Patti DiPanfilo. Photos by Nerissa Johnson. Before image courtesy of Implant

Dentistry of Florida. mkb

Tooth loss is a very com-mon problem. The American Association of

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons reports that 69 percent of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one tooth to an injury, gum disease, failed root canal or tooth decay. By age 74, 26 percent of adults have lost all of their teeth.

In all, 120 million people in the US are missing at least one tooth, and more than 36 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. � e number of adults with missing teeth is expected to increase to more than 200 million people in the next 15 years as Baby Boomers continue to age.

People who have missing teeth may be candidates for dental implants. Dental implants are used to secure replacements for single teeth, as well as to stabilize appli-ances to replace multiple teeth, such as bridges and dentures.

Today, dental implants are the gold standard for replac-ing missing teeth. Currently, the number of dental implants done annually is comparable to the number of arti� cial hip and knee joints placed each year.

The concept of dental implants goes back to ancient Egypt, but the modern history of implants began during World War II, when a military doctor wondered about using metal to

Dental Implants:Sturdy Treatment for Tooth Loss

restore various parts of the body.It was in 1982 when the

Food and Drug Administration approved the use of metal implants in the United States. Today, most dental implants are made of tita-nium or a titanium alloy.

Dental implants are screw-like posts, conical or cylindrical, that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. � ey function as the roots of the replacements for the missing teeth. Once the implants are placed in the jaw, they fuse with the existing bone in a pro-cess called osseointegration. � is results in a strong, solid, sturdy

foundation for the replacements.� e osseointegration process

can take weeks to months, but when it’s completed, a small con-necter piece, called an abutment, is placed on top of the implant. � e abutment connects the den-tal implant to the replacement teeth, whether that’s a crown for a single tooth or a bridge or den-ture for multiple teeth.

Missing teeth replaced using dental implants look, feel and function like natural teeth. � ey also improve the patient’s appear-ance, which often enhances their self-esteem and con� dence.

BEFORE

AFTER

Page 4 | Brevard Health Care News | Spring 2018

Barry LevineExecutive Publisher

Gina L. d’AngeloCFO/HR

Roy CummingsEditorial Supervisor

Michelle BrooksCreative Director

Brian LevineProject Coordinator

Patti DiPanfiloAnnette MardisEditorial Staff

Laura EngelProduction Assistant

Nerissa JohnsonGraphic Designer

Nerissa JohnsonJordan PyszPhotography

Steve TurkMario Hill

Kent BoothRick BowserRobert Mize Distribution

Implant Dentistry of FloridaImplant, Cosmetic and

General Dentistry

The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery

Ophthalmology

Visiting Nurse Association of the Treasure Coast

Home Health Care

HealthSouth Treasure Coast Rehabilitation Hospital

Rehabilitation

Richard Leong, Jr., DDS, P.A.Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry

Lake Washington Foot & AnklePodiatry

Hibiscus CourtAssisted Living Facility 9039

Regenerative Biologics InstituteStem Cell Treatment

GreenMDnowMedical Marijuana

Merrill A. Grant, MS, DMD, P.A.General/Cosmetic Dentistry

EarCare, P.A.Audiology and Hearing Aids

215 Bullard ParkwayTemple Terrace, FL 33617

(813) 989-1330

Brevard Health Care News

Brevard Health Care News is published by Florida Health Care News, Inc.

Florida Health Care News, Inc., reserves the right to decline any advertising/marketing article.

Florida Health Care News is provided for information only and should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. If you have questions concerning articles in this edition, feel free to call our contributing editors.

Florida Health Care News provides a paid forum for medical professionals to present their ideas about various aspects of medical treatment and procedures. Florida Health Care News, Inc. is not responsible for the medical care delivered by the contributing editors presented in this edition.

Articles reflect the opinion of the sponsoring profes-sional or organization and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of other contributing editors. Contributing editors have approved all text contained within their respective articles.

© 2018 Florida Health Care News, Inc. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication, including articles, may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher.

FOR ALL health care professionals having

articles in this publication: THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON

RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE

REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS

PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF, AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO, THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR A FREE,

DISCOUNTED OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

All stock imagery that is not marked otherwise is

courtesy of istockphoto.com.

Implant, CosmetIC and General dentIstry

A higher level of comprehensive rehabilitation

servicesHealthSouth Treasure Coast Rehabilitation Hospital takes patient self-referrals and referrals by patient families or advocates. They welcome readers to tour the hospital seven days a week, no appointment required! Contact the hospital for an in-home nursing evaluation.

Vero Beach1600 37th St.

(772) 563-4070Visit them online at www.healthsouthtreasurecoast.com

L ast year, auto body special-ist George*, 62, was living a care-free, unfettered life in his native St. � omas in the

US Virgin Islands. In early July, George slipped and fell and hit his head on a rock. At the time, he underwent an MRI at the local hospital and was told he was � ne.

Two months later, Hurricane Irma hit the tranquil island, and life changed dramatically in St. � omas, George’s life was especially impacted by events on that late summer day.

“I was in my house trying to secure my stuff during the hurricane,” he shares. “Part of the roof came down and hit me on the head. I went to the hospital in St. � omas, and they found I was bleeding in my head.”

According to George’s sister, Rita*, George has difficulty recalling exactly what happened during and right after the time of the hurricane. She o� ers to � ll in some of the details.

“When the hurricane hit, George was in his house, and he witnessed windows being blown out and the roof collapsing, and he realized he lost everything,” states Rita. “He became depressed and went to his girlfriend’s house. She noticed he was acting strangely and took him to the emergency room in St. � omas. When they found bleeding in his head, they air-lifted him to a hospital in Miami.

“� e doctors there � gured that some-thing that happened to George during the hurricane – or facing the reality that he’d lost everything – had triggered the bleeding, even though his injury actually occurred two months before.”

Doctors in Miami diagnosed George with a bilateral hematoma, meaning blood was accumulating on both sides of his head. � ey quickly performed surgery to release the pressure of the blood on his brain.

“I had surgery on my head,” con� rms George. “� ey had to cut my head and put in tubes to drain the blood. I was in the hospital in Miami for about a month.”

When George was released from the hospital, Rita made arrangements to have him transferred to her home in Vero Beach, where she could care for him. He was with her about a week when he began experiencing terri-ble headaches.

“I knew something wasn’t right, so I took him to the emergency room in Vero Beach,” relates Rita. “They discovered he was bleeding in his head again, so they rushed him back to the hospital in Miami to do the surgery a second time. He stayed there another month.”

George was in critical condition following his second surgery and needed extensive rehabilitation. Rita chose the only rehabilitation hospital in the area because they would be capable of handling George’s serious situa-tion. She reached out to HealthSouth Treasure Coast Rehabilitation Hospital in Vero Beach.

“I was in bad shape when I � rst got to HealthSouth,” reports George. “I couldn’t talk or walk. I couldn’t eat. I was on a feeding tube for a long time. I didn’t even know where I was until about a week after I got there.”

Multi-Trauma TreatmentWhen George hit his head on that rock, he suffered a traumatic brain injury. A traumatic brain injury is complex, has a broad scope of symptoms and leads to a wide range of disabilities. When George arrived at HealthSouth, he had severe disabilities, and the hospital’s dedicated staff was determined to help him overcome them.

“George came to us in critical con-dition,” notes Dawn Bucaj, RN, BSN, senior rehab liaison at HealthSouth. “He had multiple systems failing. He was on feeding tubes, couldn’t walk or talk and was experiencing other common compli-cations of traumatic brain injury.

“To complement our comprehen-sive brain injury rehabilitation program, HealthSouth created a multi-trauma rehabilitation program for advanced critical care conditions. � is program provides optimal recovery for traumat-ically injured patients.”

The multi-trauma program at HealthSouth provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to keep pace with the wide range of traumatic conditions, including closed head and spinal cord injuries. The program offers a team approach to establishing an individualized plan of care based on the patient’s speci� c needs and diagnosis.

“A physiatrist, a physician who special izes in physical medicine and rehabilitation, directs the team throughout the patient’s stay,” explains Dawn. “Other members of the team include an internal medicine physician, nutritional specialist, occupational and physical therapists, rehabilitation-certified registered nurses, and respira-tory and speech therapists.

“We also work with many consult-ing physicians from the community who assist as needed to address a patient’s spe-ci� c injuries and needs.”

After George’s admiss ion to HealthSouth, when he was alert enough, he was started on the therapy portion of the program. He worked hard, and before long, he and the ther-apists started seeing improvement.

“When he woke up, George went straight into physical, occupational and speech therapy,” veri� es Rita. “� en one day, he just started blurting out words and talking again. I think he was able to do it because of the attention they gave him at HealthSouth.”

� e multi-trauma program o� ers a higher level of care than rehabilita-tion centers and nursing homes. As a hospital, HealthSouth provides daily physician visits and round-the-clock certi� ed registered nursing care to help patients reach their goals and ultimately return home quicker. Patients also work with experienced therapists who guide them toward their goals.

“Our patients deserve that level of care, and HealthSouth is the only pro-vider on the Treasure Coast who can provide it,” observes Dawn. “Patients with multi-trauma conditions, such as traumatic brain injuries, typically are admitted from a hospital. Still, it’s important that patients and families ask for HealthSouth by name.”

Independence DayGeorge’s memory of what happened that day in September may be murky, but he clearly remembers the e� ort it took to get his health back. He recalls the patience and dedication of the physicians, nurses and therapists at HealthSouth.

“� e sta� began giving me all types of therapy,” comments George. “I had everything. I had to start from scratch to learn how to eat. I finally got into a wheelchair, but I was deter-mined to walk again. It took a good month to do it.”

George was recently released and walked out of HealthSouth after more than a month in the multi-trauma

program. He’s amazed by how far he’s come with the help of the hospital’s sta� . Now, he’s back home with his sister, and he can talk, eat and walk again. He’s excited about his progress.

“Now, I do things for myself,” he enthuses. “I don’t need anybody to help me get to the bathroom, and I can put on my own clothes. I feel like I’m back. Now, I do everything to push myself to get stronger. I walk. I ride my bike. I exercise and do leg balance exercises.”

Rita is impressed by George’s come-back as well. She also credits the sta� at HealthSouth for treating him so well when he was there. � ey helped him get healthy when he started out in critical condition.

“George has really progressed,” mar-vels Rita. “While he was in the hospital in Miami, he lost a lot of weight. He went down to one hundred thirty-� ve

pounds, and this was a man who was almost two hundred pounds. I took him to the doctor this week, and he’s back up to one hundred eighty-one.

“I really believe that if it wasn’t for the cheer, love and attention they gave George at HealthSouth, he probably wouldn’t have made it. � ey gave him such good care that when he came back to my house, he said, � ose nurses were so nice. I want to do something nice for them. So, he got a cake and brought it to them as a way of saying, � ank you.”

“ I g o t w o n d e r f u l c a r e a t HealthSouth,” agrees George. “Someone was always there when I needed help. If I rang the bell, someone always came right away. HealthSouth Treasure Coast Rehabilitation Hospital is the place to go if something happens to you.”FHCN article by Patti DiPanfilo.mkb

*Patient’s and sister’s names witheld at their request.

–Rita

“I really believe that if it wasn’t for the cheer, love and attention they gave George at HealthSouth, he probably

wouldn’t have made it.”

Multi-Trauma Program Return to independence after

life-threatening injury

Spring 2018 | Brevard Health Care News | Page 5rehabIlItatIon

BEFORE

AFTER

Barbara

Richard Leong, Jr., DDS, is a general and implant dentist practicing comprehensive dentistry. He is one of the few dentists in the area who place special emphasis on treatment of dental implants and temporomandibular joint dysfunctions, lasers, CT scans and Invisalign® orthodontics. A pioneer in the � eld of dental implantology, he has been performing dental implant surgeries since 1975. Dr. Leong graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and earned his dental degree from the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry in Memphis. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, a Master in the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantology and a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. His professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, the Brevard County Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the International Congress of Oral Implantology, the American College of Oral Implantology, the American Academy of Implants and Transplants, the International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics, the American Society of Osseointegration and the International Institute for Christian Studies. In addition, Dr. Leong is co-chairman of the implantology division at Atlantic Coast Research Center in West Palm Beach,

FL, where he teaches dental implantology. He lectures nationally and internationally on the subjects of dental implants, temporomandibular dysfunction treatments, neuromuscular occlusion, practice management, lasers in dentistry and CT 3-D scans in general dentistry.

For more information, visit Dr. Leong’s website at www.richardleongdds.com

For ALL your dental needs…Dr. Leong and his sta� invite you to call or visit their o� ce and discover that

high-quality technical expertise can coexist within a warm, casual, welcoming environment. Dr. Leong’s o� ce is located in Melbourne at:

400 South Babcock Street

(321) 723-7255

A dentist and a teacher

Function and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to eat and speak

comfortably

Can be restored to look like natural teeth, so you can smile with

confi dence

Maintain the bone structures of the jaws and face, preventing the

premature aging process often associated with tooth and bone loss

Firmly and securely support dental work, eliminating the need for

bulky, plastic dentures, or adhesives

Help prevent decay in the jawbone

Dental implants will usually last a lifetime

Why Choose Dental Implants:

Leading-edge technology allows for comprehensive dental care

Matilda Cox spent nearly 50 years serving a variety of physicians as a medical sec-retary. During that time, she

regularly took advantage of the opportunity she was given to observe countless surgical procedures and operations.

Matilda, 73, recently had those tables turned on her. � is time, instead of being one of those observing a medical procedure, she became the star in an instructional video produced for post graduate dental studies.

And it was all because of a strawberry seed.“It was sometime last spring that I was

eating strawberries, and one of the little seeds got stuck in the gap between my gum and one of my teeth on the right side down there on the bottom,” Matilda recalls.

“I thought I’d brushed or � ossed it out, but after a couple of days, the area around that tooth began to swell, and the swelling just wouldn’t go away. No matter how much I brushed or flossed, that area remained swollen and very tender to the touch.”

Matilda wrestled with the problem for sev-eral months, partly because the pain and swelling occasionally disappeared for brief periods. Finally, after the pain returned with a vengeance last sum-mer, she decided to seek professional help.

As she has since 2011, when his sterling rep-utation and the location of his o� ce near her place of work in Melbourne made him a con-venient choice for a routine checkup, Matilda sought the aid of Richard Leong, Jr., DDS.

Dr. Leong is a general and implant dentist who practices comprehensive, full-treatment dentistry, including full mouth reconstruc-tion. He is also a teacher who often videotapes his work so it can be used as a guide for stu-dents at � e Atlantic Dental Research Clinic in West Palm Beach. He teaches a three-year curriculum for post graduate students.

Seeds of InfectionIt was in that dual role as both dentist and teacher that Dr. Leong took on the chal-lenge presented to him by Matilda, who had already seen Dr. Leong for help with that tooth � ve years earlier after a portion of the tooth had broken o� at the gumline.

Presented with a series of options that included removing the tooth and having a bridge made or removing the tooth and replacing it with an implant, Matilda opted at the time to try to save the tooth by having it restored from the spot where it had broken o� .

The job was an extensive one that required the use of a laser to do a crown-lengthening procedure where Dr. Leong had to remove some of the bone around the edges of the tooth to create the structure needed to place a crown over it.

� e procedure was a success; however, the tooth began to break down yet again � ve years later. Both breakdowns came as a result of a root canal done years earlier by another dentist who didn’t go as deep into the root as necessary.

broke o� on the lower left side of Barbara’s mouth, she allowed it to go untreated for a while. As a result, the surrounding bone disintegrated.

“� e tooth had broken o� and was lost, but she still wanted that tooth replaced,” Dr. Leong relates. “� at’s a di� cult process because when there’s no bone, there’s nothing to support either an implant or a partial denture.

“We considered all her options and because the partial denture option was not amendable to her, we decided that in this case the best option was a speci� c type of implant that requires less bone but also requires quite a bit of surgery.”

Dr. Leong started his work by first removing the broken tooth. He then uti-lized the platelet-rich � brin technique he used with Matilda to graft new bone into that space in an e� ort to create a structure that could hold the implant.

As was the case with Matilda, the pro-cess of placing the implant was a risky one that required great skill because the area Dr. Leong was working on was very close to a major nerve. As with Matilda, he achieved his objective.

“We managed to do what was necessary by placing into that space a blade implant,” Dr. Leong con� rms. “A blade implant is an implant that works well where there is a small amount of bone present. � at implant was later crowned.

“After that work was completed, I pro-vided further support along the right-hand side of the bottom jaw by placing a bridge and crowns there. Now, she can chew nor-mally on both sides of her mouth, and her teeth no longer wiggle.

“Barbara has had quite a bit of work done over the years, and it has all been very successful for her.”

Matilda starred in her

own dental restoration

� e result of the second breakdown was an infection that again weakened the tooth, this time to the point where Dr. Leong was left with no other choice but to remove the tooth and replace it either with a bridge or an implant.

Building a bridge was the safest option, but in order to create a secure setting for the bridge, Dr. Leong needed to replace the crown on the tooth behind the infected tooth and build a crown for the tooth in front of the infected tooth.

Matilda opted for the implant, which had some challenges of its own. � e most di� cult was installing the implant, which needed to be placed at just the right angle to avoid hitting a major nerve resting under-neath the infected tooth.

� e procedure was one that required Dr. Leong to make use of several of his most technologically advanced instruments, including a CT scan to determine the proper placement of the implant, as well as a special blood treatment for the bone grafting.

“Anybody that does a lot of implants has to have a CT scan because you have to know the volume and density of the bone as well as the width and height of it,” Dr. Leong edu-cates. “If there are any insu� ciencies, you need to graft in more bone, or the implant won’t last as long as it should, or it may be a failure.

“As for the blood technique, that’s a new procedure in which we draw blood from the arm and centrifuge that blood down to make a blood product called platelet-rich � brin, which is a product high in growth factors. We then mix that with the bone grafting material so the bone heals faster and stronger.

“It’s because of all the equipment that I’m able to know exactly what I need to do to place the implants properly. Because of the CT scan, for example, we know we can place the implant in the bone at exactly the right angle to avoid certain areas where we could have problems. � e best is that it all turned out very well for her. She’s utilizing the tooth now and she’s very happy, which makes me happy.”

Ecstatic PatientMatilda is more than happy with the results. She’s ecstatic that the underlying problems that twice caused the tooth to break down have � nally been resolved and that she has a dentist whose techniques are always on the leading-edge of technology.

“He’s really on top of things as far as all the di� erent techniques,” Matilda expounds. “I think he’s a pioneer. He’s ahead of the � eld with all that he does, and he’s really thorough. I just think he’s wonderful.

“I like that he’s a teacher and is passing his knowledge along to the next generation

Because of the impact he is able to have on his patients’ health and comfort, Dr. Leong says that comprehensive care is a cornerstone philosophy of his practice.

Everything Under One Roof“We provide a comprehensive service so that, when patients come into the o� ce, I am able to help them in all areas,” he explains. “As a result, they don’t have to travel to many di� erent places to have their dentistry com-pleted. � e protocols keep improving, so techniques become faster and better.”

Dr. Leong utilizes many of today’s leading-edge advancements in implantol-ogy in his own practice, as well as personally developing new techniques.

“My o� ce is equipped with all of the latest technology. We are very high-tech, and I want others to know that I do a lot more than just cleanings or � llings. I specialize in comprehensive dentistry in order to meet the growing and changing needs of my patients. � eir needs always come � rst.”

For Barbara, the combination of excel-lent care and technical skill has proven to be exactly what she was looking for in a dentist.

Twenty Years of Trust“I would say my husband and I have been going to Dr. Leong for over two decades now,” Barbara says. “Everyone in that o� ce is so personable and caring. Most people dread going to the dentist, but I never feel that way.

“Dr. Leong stays on top of every new skill, and he’s just a very giving person in every-thing he does,” she adds. “He’s a very caring person who loves helping people with their teeth.” FHCN staff article. Matilda’s photo by Nerissa Johnson.

Barbara’s photo by Jordan Pysz. Before and after images courtesy of

Dr. Leong. nj

Barbara is able to participate in Sunday readings at her church once again.

Smilesof dentists. Being in the medical � eld myself, I know that’s important, and I have to admit, it was kind of neat to be in the training video.

“I’ve been working for doctors since I was twenty-two years old, so I’ve always been interested in things like that. And when you consider the work that had to be done in my situation, well, it made a lot of sense to use me as an example for the students.”

W ith more than four decades of dental experience, Dr. Leong began teaching implantology in 1982.

He recently became an adjunct professor at the Florida Institute of Technology, where he teaches the dental aspect of biomedical engineering.

In addition, Dr. Leong also teaches dental implantology at The Atlantic Dental Research Clinic in West Palm Beach, where he lectures and oversees surgical procedures performed by practicing dentists who are learning about dental implants.

Dr. Leong was recently given an award for 30 years of teaching there. His career is one de� ned by his passion for learning as well as his thirst for knowledge, which he enjoys passing on to his dental students.

“At this point in my career, I really enjoy helping people in di� erent ways, either through teaching dentistry or working directly with patients. I love giving something back. There’s always something new to learn and incorporate into your practice. Technology is ever-evolving, and we keep up with it here in the o� ce.

“I maintain advanced equipment in my office to diagnose problems and perform various dental procedures. I have students come to the o� ce, where I demonstrate the use of the equipment.”

Dr. Leong also shares his knowledge on an international level. In 1992, he had a chance to participate with his church in a mission trip to Nicaragua. He went to spread his faith and provide free dental care to those in need. In the years since, the mission trips have developed into an annual medical/dental contribution.

“I started with missions and that expanded to teaching in the dental schools, but it’s still missionary work because we take care of all of these people that really need a great deal of dental work.”

Whether he’s helping patients far from home or in his Melbourne o� ce, Dr. Leong says it’s wonderful to witness the e� ect of his e� orts.

“The ultimate goal for me is to care for people. That’s what I do. It is so rewarding to take what I know and help others and to teach others to do the same.”

Heaven-SentBarbara Farley says faith brought her and Dr. Leong together many years ago. She and her husband, Mike, � rst met Dr. Leong through the church they all attend, and they got to know each other better while part of a mission trip to Israel.

“Mike was actually the � rst one of us to go to see Dr. Leong,” Barbara explains. “� at was several years ago, and he was very pleased with the work that was done, so he encour-aged me to give Dr. Leong a try as well.

“I was going to a periodontist before that because my husband and I have both had periodontal disease, but he was only a periodontist. We both wanted a dentist who could do a little more for us if need be.

“That’s one of the great things about Dr. Leong. He does everything. You don’t have to go from one doctor to another if you have a problem. And because I already knew him through the church and knew what a wonder-ful human being he was, the choice was easy.”

� at choice quickly proved to be the right one. During one of her � rst visits to Dr. Leong, Barbara was undergoing a deep tissue cleaning in an e� ort to keep her peri-odontal disease in check when Dr. Leong noticed a hole in her bridge.

Quick FixDr. Leong managed to fix that problem quickly and easily. He was also quick to repair a problem that arose for Barbara a few years later, on the day before she was about to leave for a vacation.

“On that occasion, he was able to go in and extract my tooth, place two implants and do a root canal, all in one day,” Barbara says. “Dr. Leong is right there to take care of any problem you have with your mouth.”

Barbara’s most recent dental issue proved to be a little more problematic, in part because of neglect. After a tooth

Page 6 | Brevard Health Care News | Spring 2018 Implant and CosmetIC dentIstry

BEFORE

AFTER

Barbara

Richard Leong, Jr., DDS, is a general and implant dentist practicing comprehensive dentistry. He is one of the few dentists in the area who place special emphasis on treatment of dental implants and temporomandibular joint dysfunctions, lasers, CT scans and Invisalign® orthodontics. A pioneer in the � eld of dental implantology, he has been performing dental implant surgeries since 1975. Dr. Leong graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and earned his dental degree from the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry in Memphis. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, a Master in the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics, a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantology and a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. His professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, the Brevard County Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the International Congress of Oral Implantology, the American College of Oral Implantology, the American Academy of Implants and Transplants, the International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics, the American Society of Osseointegration and the International Institute for Christian Studies. In addition, Dr. Leong is co-chairman of the implantology division at Atlantic Coast Research Center in West Palm Beach,

FL, where he teaches dental implantology. He lectures nationally and internationally on the subjects of dental implants, temporomandibular dysfunction treatments, neuromuscular occlusion, practice management, lasers in dentistry and CT 3-D scans in general dentistry.

For more information, visit Dr. Leong’s website at www.richardleongdds.com

For ALL your dental needs…Dr. Leong and his sta� invite you to call or visit their o� ce and discover that

high-quality technical expertise can coexist within a warm, casual, welcoming environment. Dr. Leong’s o� ce is located in Melbourne at:

400 South Babcock Street

(321) 723-7255

A dentist and a teacher

Function and feel like natural teeth, allowing you to eat and speak

comfortably

Can be restored to look like natural teeth, so you can smile with

confi dence

Maintain the bone structures of the jaws and face, preventing the

premature aging process often associated with tooth and bone loss

Firmly and securely support dental work, eliminating the need for

bulky, plastic dentures, or adhesives

Help prevent decay in the jawbone

Dental implants will usually last a lifetime

Why Choose Dental Implants:

Leading-edge technology allows for comprehensive dental care

Matilda Cox spent nearly 50 years serving a variety of physicians as a medical sec-retary. During that time, she

regularly took advantage of the opportunity she was given to observe countless surgical procedures and operations.

Matilda, 73, recently had those tables turned on her. � is time, instead of being one of those observing a medical procedure, she became the star in an instructional video produced for post graduate dental studies.

And it was all because of a strawberry seed.“It was sometime last spring that I was

eating strawberries, and one of the little seeds got stuck in the gap between my gum and one of my teeth on the right side down there on the bottom,” Matilda recalls.

“I thought I’d brushed or � ossed it out, but after a couple of days, the area around that tooth began to swell, and the swelling just wouldn’t go away. No matter how much I brushed or flossed, that area remained swollen and very tender to the touch.”

Matilda wrestled with the problem for sev-eral months, partly because the pain and swelling occasionally disappeared for brief periods. Finally, after the pain returned with a vengeance last sum-mer, she decided to seek professional help.

As she has since 2011, when his sterling rep-utation and the location of his o� ce near her place of work in Melbourne made him a con-venient choice for a routine checkup, Matilda sought the aid of Richard Leong, Jr., DDS.

Dr. Leong is a general and implant dentist who practices comprehensive, full-treatment dentistry, including full mouth reconstruc-tion. He is also a teacher who often videotapes his work so it can be used as a guide for stu-dents at � e Atlantic Dental Research Clinic in West Palm Beach. He teaches a three-year curriculum for post graduate students.

Seeds of InfectionIt was in that dual role as both dentist and teacher that Dr. Leong took on the chal-lenge presented to him by Matilda, who had already seen Dr. Leong for help with that tooth � ve years earlier after a portion of the tooth had broken o� at the gumline.

Presented with a series of options that included removing the tooth and having a bridge made or removing the tooth and replacing it with an implant, Matilda opted at the time to try to save the tooth by having it restored from the spot where it had broken o� .

The job was an extensive one that required the use of a laser to do a crown-lengthening procedure where Dr. Leong had to remove some of the bone around the edges of the tooth to create the structure needed to place a crown over it.

� e procedure was a success; however, the tooth began to break down yet again � ve years later. Both breakdowns came as a result of a root canal done years earlier by another dentist who didn’t go as deep into the root as necessary.

broke o� on the lower left side of Barbara’s mouth, she allowed it to go untreated for a while. As a result, the surrounding bone disintegrated.

“� e tooth had broken o� and was lost, but she still wanted that tooth replaced,” Dr. Leong relates. “� at’s a di� cult process because when there’s no bone, there’s nothing to support either an implant or a partial denture.

“We considered all her options and because the partial denture option was not amendable to her, we decided that in this case the best option was a speci� c type of implant that requires less bone but also requires quite a bit of surgery.”

Dr. Leong started his work by first removing the broken tooth. He then uti-lized the platelet-rich � brin technique he used with Matilda to graft new bone into that space in an e� ort to create a structure that could hold the implant.

As was the case with Matilda, the pro-cess of placing the implant was a risky one that required great skill because the area Dr. Leong was working on was very close to a major nerve. As with Matilda, he achieved his objective.

“We managed to do what was necessary by placing into that space a blade implant,” Dr. Leong con� rms. “A blade implant is an implant that works well where there is a small amount of bone present. � at implant was later crowned.

“After that work was completed, I pro-vided further support along the right-hand side of the bottom jaw by placing a bridge and crowns there. Now, she can chew nor-mally on both sides of her mouth, and her teeth no longer wiggle.

“Barbara has had quite a bit of work done over the years, and it has all been very successful for her.”

Matilda starred in her

own dental restoration

� e result of the second breakdown was an infection that again weakened the tooth, this time to the point where Dr. Leong was left with no other choice but to remove the tooth and replace it either with a bridge or an implant.

Building a bridge was the safest option, but in order to create a secure setting for the bridge, Dr. Leong needed to replace the crown on the tooth behind the infected tooth and build a crown for the tooth in front of the infected tooth.

Matilda opted for the implant, which had some challenges of its own. � e most di� cult was installing the implant, which needed to be placed at just the right angle to avoid hitting a major nerve resting under-neath the infected tooth.

� e procedure was one that required Dr. Leong to make use of several of his most technologically advanced instruments, including a CT scan to determine the proper placement of the implant, as well as a special blood treatment for the bone grafting.

“Anybody that does a lot of implants has to have a CT scan because you have to know the volume and density of the bone as well as the width and height of it,” Dr. Leong edu-cates. “If there are any insu� ciencies, you need to graft in more bone, or the implant won’t last as long as it should, or it may be a failure.

“As for the blood technique, that’s a new procedure in which we draw blood from the arm and centrifuge that blood down to make a blood product called platelet-rich � brin, which is a product high in growth factors. We then mix that with the bone grafting material so the bone heals faster and stronger.

“It’s because of all the equipment that I’m able to know exactly what I need to do to place the implants properly. Because of the CT scan, for example, we know we can place the implant in the bone at exactly the right angle to avoid certain areas where we could have problems. � e best is that it all turned out very well for her. She’s utilizing the tooth now and she’s very happy, which makes me happy.”

Ecstatic PatientMatilda is more than happy with the results. She’s ecstatic that the underlying problems that twice caused the tooth to break down have � nally been resolved and that she has a dentist whose techniques are always on the leading-edge of technology.

“He’s really on top of things as far as all the di� erent techniques,” Matilda expounds. “I think he’s a pioneer. He’s ahead of the � eld with all that he does, and he’s really thorough. I just think he’s wonderful.

“I like that he’s a teacher and is passing his knowledge along to the next generation

Because of the impact he is able to have on his patients’ health and comfort, Dr. Leong says that comprehensive care is a cornerstone philosophy of his practice.

Everything Under One Roof“We provide a comprehensive service so that, when patients come into the o� ce, I am able to help them in all areas,” he explains. “As a result, they don’t have to travel to many di� erent places to have their dentistry com-pleted. � e protocols keep improving, so techniques become faster and better.”

Dr. Leong utilizes many of today’s leading-edge advancements in implantol-ogy in his own practice, as well as personally developing new techniques.

“My o� ce is equipped with all of the latest technology. We are very high-tech, and I want others to know that I do a lot more than just cleanings or � llings. I specialize in comprehensive dentistry in order to meet the growing and changing needs of my patients. � eir needs always come � rst.”

For Barbara, the combination of excel-lent care and technical skill has proven to be exactly what she was looking for in a dentist.

Twenty Years of Trust“I would say my husband and I have been going to Dr. Leong for over two decades now,” Barbara says. “Everyone in that o� ce is so personable and caring. Most people dread going to the dentist, but I never feel that way.

“Dr. Leong stays on top of every new skill, and he’s just a very giving person in every-thing he does,” she adds. “He’s a very caring person who loves helping people with their teeth.” FHCN staff article. Matilda’s photo by Nerissa Johnson.

Barbara’s photo by Jordan Pysz. Before and after images courtesy of

Dr. Leong. nj

Barbara is able to participate in Sunday readings at her church once again.

Smilesof dentists. Being in the medical � eld myself, I know that’s important, and I have to admit, it was kind of neat to be in the training video.

“I’ve been working for doctors since I was twenty-two years old, so I’ve always been interested in things like that. And when you consider the work that had to be done in my situation, well, it made a lot of sense to use me as an example for the students.”

W ith more than four decades of dental experience, Dr. Leong began teaching implantology in 1982.

He recently became an adjunct professor at the Florida Institute of Technology, where he teaches the dental aspect of biomedical engineering.

In addition, Dr. Leong also teaches dental implantology at The Atlantic Dental Research Clinic in West Palm Beach, where he lectures and oversees surgical procedures performed by practicing dentists who are learning about dental implants.

Dr. Leong was recently given an award for 30 years of teaching there. His career is one de� ned by his passion for learning as well as his thirst for knowledge, which he enjoys passing on to his dental students.

“At this point in my career, I really enjoy helping people in di� erent ways, either through teaching dentistry or working directly with patients. I love giving something back. There’s always something new to learn and incorporate into your practice. Technology is ever-evolving, and we keep up with it here in the o� ce.

“I maintain advanced equipment in my office to diagnose problems and perform various dental procedures. I have students come to the o� ce, where I demonstrate the use of the equipment.”

Dr. Leong also shares his knowledge on an international level. In 1992, he had a chance to participate with his church in a mission trip to Nicaragua. He went to spread his faith and provide free dental care to those in need. In the years since, the mission trips have developed into an annual medical/dental contribution.

“I started with missions and that expanded to teaching in the dental schools, but it’s still missionary work because we take care of all of these people that really need a great deal of dental work.”

Whether he’s helping patients far from home or in his Melbourne o� ce, Dr. Leong says it’s wonderful to witness the e� ect of his e� orts.

“The ultimate goal for me is to care for people. That’s what I do. It is so rewarding to take what I know and help others and to teach others to do the same.”

Heaven-SentBarbara Farley says faith brought her and Dr. Leong together many years ago. She and her husband, Mike, � rst met Dr. Leong through the church they all attend, and they got to know each other better while part of a mission trip to Israel.

“Mike was actually the � rst one of us to go to see Dr. Leong,” Barbara explains. “� at was several years ago, and he was very pleased with the work that was done, so he encour-aged me to give Dr. Leong a try as well.

“I was going to a periodontist before that because my husband and I have both had periodontal disease, but he was only a periodontist. We both wanted a dentist who could do a little more for us if need be.

“That’s one of the great things about Dr. Leong. He does everything. You don’t have to go from one doctor to another if you have a problem. And because I already knew him through the church and knew what a wonder-ful human being he was, the choice was easy.”

� at choice quickly proved to be the right one. During one of her � rst visits to Dr. Leong, Barbara was undergoing a deep tissue cleaning in an e� ort to keep her peri-odontal disease in check when Dr. Leong noticed a hole in her bridge.

Quick FixDr. Leong managed to fix that problem quickly and easily. He was also quick to repair a problem that arose for Barbara a few years later, on the day before she was about to leave for a vacation.

“On that occasion, he was able to go in and extract my tooth, place two implants and do a root canal, all in one day,” Barbara says. “Dr. Leong is right there to take care of any problem you have with your mouth.”

Barbara’s most recent dental issue proved to be a little more problematic, in part because of neglect. After a tooth

Spring 2018 | Brevard Health Care News | Page 7Implant and CosmetIC dentIstry

LAKE WASHINGTON FOOT & ANKLEROBERT P. DUNNE, DPM, FACFAS, P.A.

Robert P. Dunne, DPM, FACFAS, i s a board-certified podiatric sur-geon and a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. After receiving his degree from Dr. William M. Scholl College

of Podiatric Medicine, he completed a podiatric surgical residency followed by a preceptorship at Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Dunne participates in ongoing research, including double-blinded studies for pharmaceutical trials.

Plantar WartsDon’t let them go untreated

Verruca plantaris, or plantar warts, can be painful and embarrassing.

The most common breeding grounds for plantar warts are communal showers, floors in public swimming pools, even your shower at home. Breakouts can also occur among people who share gym or athletic facilities or in settings where bare feet are the rule.

“Warts can occur on any compro-mised skin surface, but they are most common on the bottoms of the feet and on the hands,” explains board-certi� ed podiatric surgeon Robert P. Dunne, DPM, who has o� ces in Melbourne and Palm Bay. “� ey tend to invade the skin through

Are you experiencing

foot pain?Dr. Dunne welcomes the opportunity to answer your questions about plantar warts and other foot health issues. To schedule an appointment, please call

or visit one of his two offi ces:

Melbourne2717 N. Wickham Rd., #4,

Palm Bay1091 Port Malabar Road

Suite 3

(321) 253-6191

small abrasions or cuts, some that you may not even realize you have.

“� e plantar wart can be quite painful since you are putting pressure on the area by simply standing. Paring them down can often relieve some of the pressure, but a more aggressive treatment may be required.”

Dr. Dunne treats a wide variety of podiatric complaints such as fungal nails, tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), dermatitis; heel, foot and ankle pain; tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, hammer toes, bunions and other bone issues.

“� ere are several treatment options for a plantar wart, but not all are inva-sive,” the doctor reveals. “Treatments can be oral, such as Tagamet®, or topical, such as salicylic acid or retinoid cream. � ere is also a slightly invasive procedure called cryotherapy, which causes the wart to scab and fall off, or an invasive procedure, where there is an excision of the wart. Both of these procedures are done in the o� ce in just a few minutes.”

Risk Factors for Plantar Warts� ere are many risk factors for plantar warts, especially in our Florida environment.

“Age can be a factor in the development of a wart,” explains Dr. Dunne. “Children are more susceptible because they have not built up an immunity to the virus.”

Dr. Dunne accentuates that “there are several over-the-counter and home rem-edies that people can use to treat plantar warts, but we strongly caution those who

are susceptible to infection or persons with diabetes not to try these without consulting their doctor.”

People with weakened immune sys-tems are particularly susceptible to the virus, he notes. People should keep in mind that warts are contagious and, if a� ected, one should take precautions so as not to spread the virus.

Preventative measures include: not touching other people’s warts; not sharing towels, shoes or socks; wearing � ip-� ops in the shower (if a� ected, this should be at home or in a community shower setting), covering the wart to prevent exposure and not scratching or picking at the wart, which can easily cause them to spread.

Lake Washington Foot & Ankle is a comprehensive podiatric medicine clinic o� ering treatment for everything from bunions to hammertoes. “We treat ingrown toenails, warts and neuromas,” assures Dr. Dunne. “We also do clinical trials for onychomycosis [fungal toenails]

in an e� ort to � nd better and more e� ec-tive treatment for this ailment.

“Our patients come first, and we recommend they take action now if they have a problem.” Article courtesy of Lake Washington Foot & Ankle Center.nj

Treatment Options• Oral Medications• Topical Medications• Surgical Excision• Cryotherapy

H ibiscus Cour t offers luxurious senior living, including assisted living and memory care. For more information or to schedule a tour, call or visit Hibiscus Court in Melbourne at:

540 East Hibiscus Blvd.(321) 345-9830

Enjoy Retirement Living

Visit them at HibiscusCourtMelbourne.com and Facebook.com/HibiscusCourtMelbourneAssistedLiving

Shirley Bliven attributes her out-going nature to the years she worked for a major hotel chain. She’s a natural in her role as an

uno� cial ambassador for Hibiscus Court.

� ree years ago, Shirley felt her hus-band, Frank, needed memory care, and began a search for the perfect home away from home where he could get the care he needed. After searching all over Brevard County, none of them felt right.

“I was very frustrated. I was afraid I wasn’t going to � nd the right place for Frank,” Shirley shares. “� e other places were depressing.”

� en, she and her daughter stopped at Hibiscus Court.

“� e minute we opened the door, it felt like home,” Shirley describes. “I told my daughter, � is is where I want Dad to be.”

Frank initially lived in � e Garden, Hibiscus Court’s memory care com-munity, while Shirley maintained the residence she and Frank had shared. Frank thrived in his Garden apart-ment, and eventually he and Shirley moved into an assisted living apartment upstairs at Hibiscus Court.

“He was lonesome, so I gave up the residence we’d had and moved in with him three years ago,” Shirley recalls. “I’d been here four months when he passed away. I initially thought about going back to my apartment. Now, I’m happy that I didn’t because I have so many friends here, and I couldn’t be in a better place.”

Unl ike o ther communi t i e s , “Hibiscus Court specializes in accommo-dating couples requiring di� erent levels of care,” notes Alex Larson, community education director. “In Shirley’s case, her husband was able to enjoy activities in � e Garden during the day, and in the evening, they came together and were able to live in their private apartment. We also accommodate residents who have pets. We currently have many furry friends living with us.”

Prospective neighbors and their fam-ilies often meet Shirley while they tour the community, which is reminiscent of a resort-style hotel.

“Shirley has been kind enough to allow us to show families her beautiful apartment,” says Alex. “� ey love meeting Shirley and asking her questions that give them insight into all the wonderful things an assisted living community can be and speci� cally what Hibiscus Court is like.”

Maintaining Independence People transitioning from a private home are often nervous because of prevailing confusion about what an assisted living

community o� ers versus skilled nursing and rehab, Alex points out.

At Hibiscus Court, “the aim is to eat well and be cared for, be entertained, continue to have a social life, be indepen-dent and safely so.”

� e community has nearly 80 resi-dents, ranging in age from their late 50s to 103! Shirley is among those who don’t require much help with their daily routine but don’t wish to live alone.

“� ey give me my medications, and that’s about all,” she states. “I dress myself. I go to the dining room. I participate in many of the activities, both on the cam-pus and in outings to concerts and shows and even the beach, to mention a few. I’m pretty independent, but I need to be here.”

As people grow older, factors such as nutrition, mental and physical activ-ity, and social interaction become as important as medical care. � e team at Hibiscus Court places great importance on those considerations.

“If you get tired of cooking, cleaning, doing laundry and worrying about day-to-day maintenance for your home, living at Hibiscus Court is a pretty good place to have a lot of fun,” Alex stresses.

“My favorite part is watching the residents form bonds and friendships. They look out for each other and include each other in everything that’s going on,” she continues. “It’s really quite remarkable to watch them sit and talk and laugh.”

People who aren’t as social are welcome to relax in their apartment, which includes a bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette that residents are free to decorate to their taste.

Shirley, who remains eager to experi-ence all the activities and other bene� ts of Hibiscus Court, sums up what she loves about living there in one word: everything.

“Everybody is so pleasant and so helpful, and if you need assistance, they’re right there,” she enthuses. “I know I’m not alone because all I have to do is open my door, step out into the corridor and there’s a friend.”FHCN article by Annette Mardis. Photo by Nerissa Johnson.

mkb

Shirley’s busy days include doing puzzles with Alex, Betty and Irene.

Plenty of Time for Fun

Page 8 | Brevard Health Care News | Spring 2018 podIatry

assIsted lIvInG FaCIlIty 9039

“Jason and everyone at Regenerative Biologics Institute is very professional and accommodating.

Let me put it this way –

I trust them!” – Dick

BRETT HAAKE, DODON PORTELL, MD

MEL RICHARDSON, MDJAY JOHNSTON, MMS, PA-C

JASON GRIFFETH, MS

Regenerative Medicine to theUnique alternative to surgery for joint pain

R ichard “Dick” McCarthy is a very active senior. At 83, the Vermont native still loves to play pickleball, ride his bicy-

cle, swim and golf. � e retired history teacher and soccer coach has paid a price for his activity and longevity. For years, he battled the agony of arthritis in his knees.

“I had an aching pain in both of my knees,” he con� rms. Dick was diagnosed by his physician with osteoarthritis, which is the wear-and-tear type that generally occurs with age. Along with the destruction of the cushioning cartilage in the joints typical of osteoarthritis, the lubricating � uid, called synovial � uid, also begins to thin over time.

“Over the past four years, my orthope-dic surgeon has given me synthetic synovial � uid shots into my knees,” shares Dick. “� e � rst time he gave me the injections, the pain relief lasted about two years. � e second time, it lasted probably six months. � en, in October of last year, I had the injections done again, and that lasted three months. � ey just weren’t doing the job.

Dick was able to avoid surgery by using his own stem cells and

growth factors.

Anti-Aging ServicesRegenerative Biologics Institute also o� ers anti-aging treatments such as bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). These treatments are provided by one of the area’s top physicians, Mel Richardson, MD. Dr. Richardson has gone through extensive training to become certi� ed in BHRT and anti-aging medicine and is one of the few physicians in Florida that is dual certi� ed by both Cenegenics and the AMMG.RBI’s goal is to help patients remain healthy and functional in life for as long as possible without reliance on pharmaceuticals and major surgeries. The sta� wants to help patients live better with age using

their own bodies’ natural mechanisms.

Repairing the body a more natural way

The clinical team at Regenerative Biologics Institute has the expertise to o� er the most advanced regenerative

therapies for orthopedic conditions. For more information about the latest in

PRP and stem cell therapies, and about achieving healing and pain relief a

more natural way, please call or visit the Institute in Vero Beach at:

th TerraceSuite

(772) 492-6973

Max

Want to know more? Visit Regenerative Biologics Institute online at www.rbistemcell.com

“After that, I had a lot of pain in my knees, and I couldn’t do my activities as frequently. I used to run, but I couldn’t do that anymore. I could only play pick-leball about once a week when I normally played three times a week. Instead of rid-ing my bike three or four times a week, I’d ride maybe once or twice on a weekend. My knees just couldn’t handle it.”

Dick was told by his doctor the next step in his treatment was surgery, but Dick was not satis� ed with that advice. Instead, he kept his options open and was rewarded when he discovered an alterna-tive to surgery.

“I wanted to avoid knee replacement surgery,” he stresses, “and I heard about Regenerative Biologics Institute (RBI), and I inquired about them. I met with Jason, who was very knowledgeable. He interviewed me and suggested their spe-cial PRP and stem cell therapy.”

Dick’s interview was with Jason Gri� eth, MS, clinical director and stem cell scientist at Regenerative Biologics Institute in Vero Beach. Jason works closely with the Institute’s medical direc-tor, Brett Haake, DO, a board-certi� ed anesthesiologist and regenerative med-icine specialist. Dr. Haake, Jason and the rest of the clinical staff spent ten years optimizing Regenerative Biologics Institute’s unique treatment protocol, RegenMax™ Injection � erapy.

“RegenMax is a proprietary formu-lation of the highest-quality stem cells, platelets and other bioactive growth factors,” describes Jason. “� e cells and growth factors work together to stimulate healing in an arthritic or injured joint.

“Dick was an active senior, and was having significant pain due to bone-on-bone degenerative arthritis. He was looking for nonsurgical treatment options that would substantially reduce his pain so he could continue doing his activ-ities. We treated him with RegenMax Injection � erapy, and he like most patients had a very positive response.”

Eff ective OptionRegenMax Injection Therapy involves a brief, minimally inva-sive procedure that provides a bene� cial alternative to surgery for reducing joint pain and regenerating arthritic or injured tissue. It is o� ce based, with little or no downtime or recovery. Patients generally walk into the Institute for the injections and walk out a couple of hours later with minimal restrictions.

“It is important for people to under-stand that RBI uses the individuals’ own stem cells, platelets and growth factors when creating the formulation for their RegenMax therapy,” notes Jason. “As stem cell scientists, we do everything possible to maintain the highest stem cell viability and functionality in order to maximize

the regenerative potential for patients. It creates a real, e� ective solution to treat degenerative arthritis and joint injuries and potentially avoid major surgery.

“To perform RegenMax, we har-ness the body’s natural healing ability in the form of stem cells and platelets, con-centrate that, then put it directly into the

area of need, such as an arthritic joint. We use ultrasound or � uoroscopy to precisely guide the injections.”

Stem cells are cells that are not assigned to be a speci� c type of cell. When placed in an area and stimulated appro-priately, stem cells can develop as cells of that area, replacing the worn out or dam-aged tissue there. In joints, for example, stem cells can become cartilage cells and rebuild that deteriorated tissue. � at’s the essence of regenerative medicine.

Platelets are specialized cells found in blood. � ey are the cells responsible for clotting at the site of an injury. Platelets contain many healing substances and growth factors that can stimulate and assist stem cells in their regenerative activity.

“To harvest stem cells, we generally perform a mini-lipoaspirate on the per-son’s abdomen or � ank,” explains Jason. “During this minimally invasive proce-dure, we remove a small sample of fat tissue, which is the richest source of stem cells in the body. We get the platelets from a regular blood draw.

“The RegenMax therapy has an anti-inflammatory effect, which can reduce pain, within the � rst couple of weeks following injection. However, the real regenerative e� ects from the stem cells and growth factors take a month or more to achieve.”

In January 2017, Dick underwent his treatment at Regenerative Biologics Institute. He had a single RegenMax injection in each knee.

“RegenMax Injection � erapy was no problem,” he relates. “� e injections were similar to those for the synovial fluid, so they didn’t bother me, just a

little discomfort. After the treatment, I was able to drive

back to Melbourne Beach. Jason told me not to play pickleball for a few days. � at was on a Saturday, and I played on Tuesday with no issues.”

“Dick was told he needed knee replacement surgery,” observes Jason. “With RBI’s RegenMax Injection � erapy, he was able to avoid that and become pain free. He’s remained pain free and active a year later.”

At Full SpeedAs Jason explained, the full effects of RegenMax injection therapy aren’t appar-ent for weeks after treatment, but patients often feel some pain relief soon after the injections. Dick experienced this rapid relief early on, while the PRP, stem cells and growth factors continued to heal his damaged knees.

“I started feeling pain relief from the injections when I played pickleball on that Tuesday following the procedure,” he states.

Dick notes that his knees have gotten considerably better since his RegenMax injection therapy. And without that constant aching pain, he’s back to his activities at full speed.

“I’m back to my activities. I play golf on Mondays and Fridays, and pickleball on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and � ursdays. I bike in the morning on those days, too, and also on the weekends.”

RegenMax injection therapy resulted in a very positive outcome for Dick. Best

of all, he was able to avoid knee replacement surgery using this alternative treatment option. He is happy to recommend the Regenerative Biologics Institute to others.

“Jason and everyone at the Regenerative Biologics Institute is very professional and accommo-

dating,” he says. “Let me put it this way – I trust them!”FHCN article by Patti DiPanfilo. Photo courtesy of

Regenerative Biologics Institute. mkb

Spring 2018 | Brevard Health Care News | Page 9stem Cell treatment

Glenn Brunk’s medical nightmare started last August with a sore hip that at � rst didn’t seem very concerning.

“He wasn’t able to lift his right leg and get out of the car without holding onto something, so we thought, Oh, that’s just arthritis,” recalls Cindy, his wife of 41 years.

But an x-ray and an MRI revealed something fright-eningly more serious: bile duct cancer that had spread to Glenn’s hip, collarbone and head. Bile ducts carry bile – a liquid that helps the body digest fats – from the liver and gallbladder through the pancreas to the small intestine.

For an appointment or information, visit greenmdnow.com

Cindy is thankful Glenn is well enough to enjoy life again.

Enrique Deahora worked in the medical marijuana industry in California for ten years. He moved back to his native Florida after the state started its cannabis program in early 2017. He hopes to be able to grow and make his own medicine for his patients in the future.

A Natural, Safe AlternativeGreenMDnow operates state-licensed clinics that assist

patients with access to quali� ed physicians who can recommend cannabis to treat various conditions. For

more information, call or visit one of their o� ces:

Merritt Island2460 N. Courtenay Parkway, Suite 106

Palm Bay111 Enterprise Ave. SE, Suite 3

Kissimmee724 N. John Young Parkway

Titusville2708 Garden St.

Indialantic334 Fifth Ave., Suites 1 and 2

(321) 806-3705

Cannabis o� ers hope, relief for a variety of disorders

“� e cancer caused a tumor on his skull large enough to cause a sixth nerve palsy,” Cindy expounds. Because of damage to a nerve controlling eye movement, “his right eye would pull at random toward his nose.”

Glenn’s prognosis was grim. Chemotherapy would give him a 30 percent chance of living just nine to 15 months.

Before starting that regimen, he underwent � ve radiation sessions, which helped improve his palsy. Next came 12 weekly chemotherapy treatments that left him too sick to eat and caused his weight to drop from 205 pounds to 158.

“Chemo about killed him,” Cindy shares. “He’d drink something and throw up. He was dwindling away and in bed all the time. It was horrible.”

Glenn led an active life, working as a FedEx® courier for some 30 years, playing competitive racquetball, surf-ing and, in retirement, walking eight miles a day, tending to the lawn and doing other chores.

Cancer “brought him to his knees,” Cindy recounts. “But he was never afraid. I’m petri� ed of losing him, and he looks at me and says, Honey, there’s nothing we can do about all this. We can do everything the doctors ask, try these things we’re experimenting with and see if they’re working. But you’ve just got to chill out.”

After chemotherapy, Glenn began an immunother-apy clinical trial at Tampa’s Mo� tt Cancer Center with Opdivo®, a drug that works with his immune system to interfere with the growth and spread of cancer cells.

As word of Glenn’s health crisis spread, friends sug-gested he and Cindy consider medical marijuana and

recommended GreenMDnow, which operates state-certi� ed clinics that help patients legally obtain cannabis products.

Compassionate Cannabis LawsSince 1996, 29 states and Washington, DC have passed laws allowing medical marijuana. � e Florida Legislature passed the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act in 2014 authorizing cancer and epilepsy patients to use marijuana with low amounts of THC, the chemical compound in cannabis responsible for its euphoric high.

Legal challenges and regulatory frustrations led to more legislation in Florida, including a constitutional amendment that voters approved in November 2016 to expand medical marijuana use. � e new rules took e� ect in January 2017.

While smoking is prohibited, medical marijuana can be sold as edibles (except in food products appealing to children), oils, sprays or tinctures, which are alcohol-based cannabis extracts. Vaping cartridges, especially whole-� ower products, must be in tamper-proof containers.

Glenn and other patients may access up to 70 days worth of medications at a time. Initially, GreenMDnow’s doctors will follow up between 30 to 45 days of dosing to establish the e� ectiveness of marijuana as a medi-cation for each patient and condition. Every 210 days (30 weeks), patients will complete a more in-depth follow-up to document their progress and recertify them as a candidate for medical cannabis.

Teachers, military veterans, state employees, business professionals, parents, grandparents and thousands of others use medicinal cannabis to treat a variety of conditions besides cancer, including Crohn’s disease, anxiety, muscular dystrophy and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Seasonal residents who live in Florida at least 31 straight days each year, maintain a temporary home and are registered to vote or pay income tax in another state are also eligible.

� e process begins with patients contacting a physician quali� ed by the state to recommend medical marijuana. � is can be a hurdle for patients because of the limited number of quali� ed physicians in their area. GreenMDnow helps patients get in touch with those physicians.

GreenMDnow’s sta� works with doctors currently treating the patients to review their medical history and prepare the documentation needed for the physicians to recommend cannabis as an alternative to current ther-apies. Once the patients are certi� ed, GreenMDnow’s physicians register them with the Medical Marijuana Use Registry. � is allows patients to apply for their medical marijuana identi� cation card.

GreenMDnow works with � ve dispensaries that provide home delivery of cannabis products, most com-monly tinctures and inhalation vape pens.

“We’re here to help our patients and change their world,” asserts Enrique Deahora, owner of GreenMDnow. “We want to help everybody � nd relief with a good, nat-ural alternative. We give our patients all the information they need and make them feel as comfortable as we can.

“We o� er a friendly environment,” he adds. “Our sta� is fully trained to provide all the necessary information because there are a lot of patients who don’t understand the process and what’s really going on with state law.”

Enrique started his service in March with one o� ce in Merritt Island. In July, several changes were made to Florida’s medical marijuana program to let veterans participate and to allow physicians to determine whether other debilitating conditions would bene� t from marijuana treatment. � ose changes increased the demand of patients in search of qual-i� ed physicians in order to obtain medicinal cannabis.

“After the � rst month, we were busy enough to start planning a second o� ce,” which opened at the end of September in Palm Bay, Operations Manager Joshua Nave reports. After booking an appointment with

GreenMDnow, patients meet with a sta� member who processes their information. A call center is available to handle inquiries, reschedule appointments and “con� rm anything additional that needs to be done,” Joshua states.

“We also have an o� ce manager who handles the paperwork,” he explains. “Any medical releases that need to be sent out or follow-ups with doctors to con� rm a diag-nosis are handled by that sta� member.”

Living Day by DayAfter GreenMDnow helped Glenn obtain his identi� ca-tion card, he began receiving tincture oil, edible cannabis

and CBD hemp oils. CBD, like THC, is a chemical compound secreted by cannabis � owers that provides relief for pain, nausea, in� ammation and other symptoms.

Since Glenn started on medical marijuana and immunotherapy, “the lesions on his skull that are moni-tored through CT scans every eight weeks have decreased by forty-four percent,” Cindy marvels. “So he’s responding to something.”

“We really don’t know if the medical marijuana is doing it or the new immunother-apy,” Glenn points out.

The Brunks just know that what he’s doing is working and don’t want to change anything that has contributed to what Cindy calls his “amazing” rebound.

“Glenn’s happy he gets out of bed every day,” she adds. “He was housebound for a while, and now he can go to the store for me or drop me o� at work.”

“My goal is to live day by day,” Glenn says. “Everything is getting better. I got o� the chemo, thank God, and will never go back to it. With the medical marijuana, it’s like day and night. I can do the yard now. I can pretty much do everything I did before I got sick.

“It brought me back to life,” he concludes.FHCN article by Annette Mardis. Photo by Nerissa Johnson. mkb

Medical Marijuana These conditions qualify under the Florida Medical Marijuana Program:

Other debilitating conditions of the same type or class

• ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)

• Anxiety• Arthritis• Cancer• Crohn’s disease• Chronic abdominal

pain• Cyclical vomiting

syndrome• Epilepsy• Glaucoma

• HIV• Irritable bowel

syndrome • Multiple sclerosis• Muscular dystrophy• Parkinson’s disease• Post-traumatic stress

disorder• Seizures• Spasticity• Severe nausea

Page 10 | Brevard Health Care News | Spring 2018 medICal marIjuana

Merrill A. Grant, MS, DMD, has been providing high-quality dental and preventive care to patients at his Satellite Beach practice since 1981. After receiving his doctorate in dental medicine and Master of Science degree in Pharmacology, he served as a captain in the United States Air Force, where he completed postgraduate programs in prosthodontics and oral surgery. Dr. Grant studied dental implants in a postgraduate program at Harvard University School of Dental Medicine, receiving his certi� cate in 1989. He has been awarded Associate Fellowships both in the American Society of Osseointegration and in the American College of Oral Implantology. Dr. Grant received a Certi� cate of Merit from the British Dental Implant Association at the Royal Society of Medicine in London and his Fellowship

in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and a founding member of the Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Grant is an alumnus of the Las Vegas Institute; the L.D. Pankey Institute, Key Biscayne, Florida; and the Dawson Institute, St. Petersburg, Florida, and is widely published in his � eld.

MERRILL A. GRANT, MS, DMD, P.A.

Comprehensive CareDr. Grant provides an array of dental therapies, including:

Get a Free Consultation Dr. Grant has been providing quality preventive, restorative and cosmetic care for more than 30 years. He looks forward to helping you achieve your

dental health goals. To make an appointment or to schedule a free

consultation, call or visit his o� ce in Satellite Beach at:

225 Jackson Ave.

(321) 499-2624www.SatelliteBeachSmiles.com

• General and preventive dentistry

• Cosmetic dentistry• Restorative dentistry and

dental implants• Sedation dentistry• Digital x-rays• Emergency dentistry

Beware of BargainsIt doesn’t pay to skimp on dental care

Joe learned not to gamble on his dental care.

Joe Bottieri recently found out just how costly it can be to try to save a few bucks on dental care.

“I had veneers put on my teeth about thirty years ago but, of course, nothing lasts forever,” Joe explains. “Two of the veneers had started to crack, and stains were forming where the cracks were from co� ee and things like that.

“� ey were getting really ugly. I was at a stage where I didn’t even want to smile anymore because my teeth looked so bad. My better half was telling me, You really need to have something done about that, and she was right.

“I knew I needed to get them redone, but instead of having the work done by my usual dentist, the one I’ve been seeing and been very happy with for about eigh-teen years, I decided to try to save a little money, so I chose another dentist.

“� at’s when I realized I’d made a big mistake and that I should have just had the work done by the dentist I’d been see-ing all along.”

� e dentist Joe had been seeing all along is Merrill A. Grant, DMD. From his o� ce in Satellite Beach, Dr. Grant provides patients with a variety of pre-ventative, cosmetic and restorative dental therapies. In Joe’s case, he had to do a little bit of everything.

Clean Contours“� e � rst thing we do with any patient is � nd out what the patient wants, or wants to change,” Dr. Grant explains. “� en we do an exam, a thorough exam, looking speci� cally at those things. At the same time, we also look at other things that can be improved upon.

“� at was a big part of what we did with Joe because, like most people, he wanted to look better, feel better and chew better. But he also wanted to be able to clean his teeth better, and from there, he wanted to be able to keep them clean longer.

“� at had become an issue for Joe because he had a lot of areas that for vari-ous reasons were trapping food. Even his natural teeth were trapping food, and to take care of that issue, we had to work on more than just a couple of teeth.”

The problem, Dr. Grant explains, stemmed from the fact that many of Joe’s teeth were over-contoured. When teeth are over-contoured, the natural, subtle bulges that make up the shape of the teeth are very pronounced.

� at can be especially problematic when the over-contoured teeth are � tted with veneers or crowns because it’s harder to mold the veneers or crowns in a way that allows them to sit tightly against what remains of the natural teeth.

With a poorly � tted crown, especially one that is too big or one in which the margins extend beyond the edge of the tooth, food and bacteria can collect along the margins. � at in turn can lead to bad breath, plaque accumulation and decay.

“A lot of people like to be able to have their mouth clean and have it stay clean and not have to worry about smil-ing and showing a piece of broccoli,” Dr. Grant relates. “� at’s what we were seeking to achieve with Joe.

“It’s amazing how subtle changes, just in the shape of the teeth or the con-tour of the teeth, can make them a lot more cleansable or easier to � oss. You can also create better contact between the teeth so food doesn’t get stuck in there to begin with.”

Top to BottomAs he does with most patients seeking the kind of change Joe sought, Dr. Grant began his work by attending to Joe’s upper teeth. He speci� cally targeted those teeth that appear whenever Joe smiles.

“Whenever the goal is to improve on the aesthetics, you tend to work on the top teeth � rst so you can determine how the smile will eventually look,” Dr. Grant educates. “� en you � x the bottom teeth to match.

“� e other thing that goes on in that process is that there is a transition that’s visible, and sometimes it looks better if you repair just four teeth instead of six. Sometimes, repairing six or eight teeth looks better than repairing four or six.

“It all depends on how wide you smile and how much of your teeth you show. Some people hardly show any of their teeth. Other people show all of their teeth and all their gums when they smile. You have to tailor the whole program to the individual.”

In Joe’s case, Dr. Grant did such a good job improving the aesthetics of his upper front teeth that Joe decided to have eight bottom teeth done as well. Along the way, Dr. Grant also made sure to � x Joe’s bite. � at, Dr. Grant relates, was his crowning achievement.

“We always look at the bite when we do this kind of work because we want that to turn out right, too,” Dr. Grant states. “And with Joe, I remember him telling me after we � nished the work we had done that it was the best bite he’d ever had.”

It wasn’t just the improved bite that exceeded Joe’s expectations. � e overall look of his new smile, from the shade of the teeth – both on the top and the bot-tom – to the spaces between them, left Joe singing Dr. Grant’s praises.

“Between Dr. Grant and the lab he uses, they did absolutely fantastic work,” Joe enthuses. “When he put those new crowns on, they � t great. We only had to make some very tiny, minor adjustments.

“� at was one of the best parts of it. I’ve had work done before where the den-tist had to go in and grind here and cut there and adjust things, and when they were done, you couldn’t even get � oss in between them.

“But that wasn’t the case with Dr. Grant. When he was done, these crowns � t perfectly. I mean, my teeth have never looked so good. Dr. Grant was more expensive than the other dentist I went to, but he did a job that I can smile about.”FHCN article by Roy Cummings. Photo by Nerissa

Johnson. mkb

Spring 2018 | Brevard Health Care News | Page 11General/CosmetIC dentIstry

KAREN COWAN-OBERBECK, AUD, FAAA, CCC-A

BEATRICE R. MCCABE, HAS

For expert hearing care, please contact EarCare at the

following locations:

Melbourne7777 N. Wickham Rd.

Suite 21

Merritt Island250 North Courtenay Pkwy.

Suite 102

Indian Harbour Beach1875D S. Patrick Dr.

(321) 216-2997FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.EARCARE.NET

Karen Cowan-Oberbeck, AuD, FAAA, CCC-A, completed her undergraduate work at the University of South Florida, Tampa. She earned her Master of Arts degree from the University of Central Florida, Orlando, and her Doctor of Audiology degree from Nova Southeastern

University, Ft. Lauderdale. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, a fellow of the Florida Academy of Audiology, a mem-ber of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and of the Florida Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and holds current Florida teaching certi� cates in hearing-impaired K-12.

Glenn Oberbeck, NBC-HIS, is a licensed hearing instrument specialist. His specialty areas include personal communication assistance, cerumen management, audiometrics and assistive listen-ing devices. He is a member of the International Hearing Society, Florida Society of Hearing

Health Professionals, Melbourne Chamber of Commerce and Cocoa Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Age 50 is a good time to establish a hearing baseline. If you answer “yes” to three or more of these questions, it may be time to have your hearing evaluated by an audiologist.

• Do you have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?

• Do people complain that you turn the TV volume up too high?

• Do you have a problem hearing over the telephone?

• Do you have to strain to understand conversation?

• Do you have trouble hearing in a noisy background? • Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves?

• Do many people you talk to seem to mumble (or not speak clearly)?

• Do you misunderstand what others are saying and respond inappropriately?

• Do people get annoyed because you misunderstand what they say?

When Should Your Hearing Be Evaluated?

Back in TouchAdvanced technology creates a plethora of new soundscapes

A fter 20 years of working her way up the corporate ladder to the position of exec-utive administrator of a large company, Diane Kaiser decided at the age of 55 to act on a longstanding desire to change

careers and move into real estate.It was around that same time that Diane, now 66,

also decided to make a major lifestyle change and get hearing aids. � e latter was a change she had contem-plated for a couple of years and one her grandchildren � nally prompted her to act on.

“I knew for a while that I had been su� ering from hearing loss,” Diane explains. “But when I could no lon-ger hear my grandkids, well, that’s when I knew I had to do something about it.”

Diane’s search for a solution to her hearing prob-lems eventually led her to EarCare, owned by Dr. Karen Cowan-Oberbeck, a board-certi� ed doctor of audiology. Diane has been a loyal customer ever since.

Throughout the past decade, Diane has worked mostly with Glenn Oberbeck, a board-certi� ed hearing instrument specialist who is well-versed in adjusting and upgrading individual’s hearing instruments to meet their expanding needs.

Glenn combined his skills and his vast knowledge of the most recent upgrades in hearing instrument tech-nology to help Diane discover a whole new world. He also helped put her back in touch with her old world.

A Technological Wonder “Hearing aids can be pretty expensive, so we try to get as much life out of them as possible,” Glenn explains. “We’re constantly making adjustments to ensure they’re working e� ciently for our patients, and Diane is a good example of that.

“We’ve been seeing Diane for about twelve years, and the hearing aids she had were about eight years old. She was de� nitely in older technology, and it was getting to the point where they just weren’t performing as well as they needed to for her.”

� e drop in performance occurred gradually, in a way Diane barely even detected at � rst. After a while, however, she noticed she was once again leaning into conversations with her right, or “good,” ear because she wasn’t hearing well enough with her left.

Even worse, she had begun to disengage herself from some conversations entirely. She began to avoid

“Thanks to these new hearing aids,

I’ve got my personality back.

I feel like I’m me again, and it’s all due to Glenn. He

absolutely rocked my world.”

- Diane

large group settings, for example, because she didn’t want to burden anyone by constantly asking them to repeat what they had just said.

“I’ve always been in Bible studies and things like that, but it got to a point where I wasn’t enjoying them anymore because I wasn’t able to hear what people were saying,” Diane relates.

“In a situation like that, where you’re all sitting around in a circle and discussing something, you don’t want to keep saying what, what all the time, so you kind of decide, Well, I’m not going to do that anymore.”

Diane, who still works regularly as a real-estate agent, sensed her hearing loss was robbing her of her sense of being. It was also beginning to a� ect her at work, where she was struggling to hear clients in per-son and on the phone.

� ankfully, Glenn had a solution. It was a solu-tion rooted in the wonders of modern technology, which is the hallmark of the ReSound LiNX 3D hear-ing aid system, the most advanced digital hearing aid system around.

ReSounding Diff erence� e ReSound system creates an environment in which the wearer can better identify speech and other sounds in noisy surroundings while maintaining a better dimension of control over all sounds, no matter the setting.

“We’re not just talking about adjusting the volume,” Glenn informs. “� e person wearing the hearing aid has individual controls over the microphone patterns, noise cancellation and manipulation of the frequency response throughout the di� erent hearing levels.

“You have the ability to actually modify the bass, the treble and the mid frequencies, and you have the ability to save that program after you’ve manipulated it so that when you get back into that environment or one with similar acoustics, you can retrieve that program.

“You can create up to twelve different custom programs, which is amaz-ing because the majority of the environments we encounter are not very difficult. But when you get into a favorite restau-rant or an auditorium, you need to be able to hear the person that’s talking. � is hearing aid can save your settings so next time you go there you can get to that optimum setting with just a click of a button.

“With previous technologies, it can be very di� -cult to communicate in some of those scenarios. But the ReSound technology even has a free app that you can download onto your phone that allows you to manipu-late the hearing aids in real time.”

� e new ReSound hearing aids are also made with Bluetooth® technology that can be connected to a smart

Diane is glad she can hear her

grandchildren clearly on the

phone

phone, thereby allowing the wearer to hear phone conversations not through the phone but through the hearing aids themselves.

Diane says she picked up on the nuances of the new technology quickly, and that her new hearing aids have allowed her to regain the lifestyle she was beginning to get away from while wearing her old hearing aids.

“When my phone rings, I hear it ring in my ears, so I’m no longer missing phone calls,” she enthuses. “I’m enjoying my Bible studies a lot more now, too.

“I have a speci� c setting on my phone for that, so when I go to the Bible study each week, I just pick that setting, and everybody’s voices are enhanced. It’s just great for large groups.

“I also like to travel and recently took a trip to Israel, where I was in a big group of people. I didn’t miss a thing. All I did was adjust the settings on my phone, and I was able to hear everything the tour guide was saying.

“� anks to Glenn and the ReSound hearing aids, I was able to hear everything and had a great time.

“� ese new hearing aids make you hear better, and what I’ve realized is that, thanks to these new hearing aids, I’ve got my personality back. I feel like I’m me again, and it’s all due to Glenn and the rest of the team at EarCare.

“He absolutely rocked my world.” FHCN article by Roy Cummings. Photo by Nerissa Johnson. Photo from Pixbay.com.nj

Page 12 | Brevard Health Care News | Spring 2018 audIoloGy and hearInG aIds