How did a dentist discover a patient's near-fatal artery blockage?

Dr. Nicole Massetti discovered an approximately 80 percent blockage in Mike Strawn's carotid artery during a routine panoramic X-ray at Kennestone Dental Designs.

What is the significance of a carotid artery blockage?

Carotid arteries supply blood to the brain, face, and neck; a significant blockage, like the 75-80% found in Mike Strawn, can lead to a stroke.

Why are preventative dental and medical screenings important?

Preventative screenings and regular health checkups, including dental visits, help healthcare providers detect potential health issues early, preventing more serious problems later.

Home / Health / Routine dental visit saves patient from stroke

Routine dental visit saves patient from stroke

6 Mar

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Summary

Dentist discovered an 80% blockage in patient's carotid artery.
Panoramic X-ray during a routine check-up led to the discovery.
The patient has since undergone surgery to clear the artery.

Routine dental visit saves patient from stroke

A routine dental visit unexpectedly turned into a life-saving event for Mike Strawn, a resident of Cobb County. During his appointment at Kennestone Dental Designs in February 2026, dentist Dr. Nicole Massetti identified a significant blockage in his carotid artery.

Massetti noticed what appeared to be calcium on Strawn's carotid artery during a panoramic X-ray. She advised him to see his doctor immediately, a recommendation Strawn took seriously due to her stern demeanor.

Further medical evaluations confirmed a blockage between 75 and 80 percent in his carotid artery. Strawn expressed surprise, as a heart scan two years prior showed zero calcium, and this issue was not on his radar.