Getting Back on Track

Yikes!  It is that time of year where you look at the scale and see that a couple of pounds are creeping up on you.  I have found that to be the case for myself lately......  That being admitted, I am sorry to say that I have fallen off my fitness wagon.  For nearly 2 years, I was on a pretty regular plan, going to the gym or working out several times a week at home, and suddenly I found the motivation had left me.  So, for 6 months, I have done very little. Why am I bringing this up?  Because I see it daily in my office as it pertains to oral health as well.

I often ask "how is your flossing going?", and the common response is,
"It was great when I first left my last appointment, but I haven't done much lately."  Another example is when a new patient or a long lost existing patient show up after years of not having any treatment.  The response is similar to losing motivation with exercise.  Many reasons come up, including loss of funds or insurance, lack of time, procrastinating because "no one likes to go to the dentist".  But, much like diet and exercise, it is much easier to maintain health and avoid treatment by sticking to a plan.  It may not be fun, it may not be the priority, but if it is neglected the results can be painful, embarrassing and expensive.

So, as someone who is trying to get back on track with my personal goals, I am asking you if you are meeting your goals when it comes to maintaining your oral and overall health?

Call SmileLogic today to get in before the holiday's creep up on us. 303-665-1281

What Health Problems are Associated with Poor Oral Hygiene?

 

Oral hygiene is the most important part of our personal regimen that allows no compromises. It is a healthy habit we are taught since early childhood; no shortcuts and no excuses. Poor teeth cleaning habits sometimes come with irreversible consequences.

When you skip brushing your teeth a sandy film coating on your teeth forms which is the beginning of plaque buildup from all the food you eat. The mixture of bacteria and chemical composition of the food and drinks you intake become what breaks down the healthy part of your enamel. The small particles that get stuck between your teeth will become tartar or calculus, a hardened plaque that causes dental caries which only deep cleaning at your dentist’s office can remove. Proper brushing twice daily and a balanced diet will help to keep your enamel strong and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Health Problems Contributed by Poor Oral Hygiene

• Gingivitis and heart conditions- these two have a common denominator-tissue inflammation. Infection-causing bacteria may travel down to the heart through the veins and arteries. Recurring gum problems affect your immune system which in turn affects your over-all health.
• Severe gum infection can increase the risk of diabetes complications. Canker sores and abscessed gum pockets may lead to tissue necrosis and dental bone loss.
• Periodontitis, the more serious form of gingivitis is linked to osteoporosis. Having the same indication of bone tissue loss. Although there is no direct connection between the two, studies show that men who are suffering from osteoporosis also have periodontitis.
• The presence of mercury in amalgam fillings raised concern among patients who have had tooth fillings. Mercury released in the bloodstream can cause serious health conditions.
• Nicotine and tar stains on the teeth and tongue can cause mouth sores and halitosis (bad breath). Teeth whitening procedures may remove the stains and after a few cleaning sessions but discoloration of the lips and tongue may take a long time to disappear, if ever.
• Tooth decay and bad breath reinforce low self-esteem and anti-social behavior.
• Gum abscesses cause throbbing pain, toothaches cause headaches and irritability.
• Gum infection can contribute to tonsillitis.

 

When is the Right Time to Practice Good Oral Hygiene?

The best time to learn good oral hygiene habits is when the first teeth appear at 6 to 8 months and diligently practiced all through the years. If you backslide, re-learn them before your teeth are damaged. Give your dental needs serious attention; visit your dentist regularly and utilize the dental services they offer. Remember, taking good care of your mouth and teeth today will save you a lot of money and health problems in the future.

 

 

Implementing a Wellness Plan in the Workplace

As the owner of my small dental hygiene practice, I come across many reasons why people don't come in for regular care.  One of the most frequent excuses is taking time away from work.  Many people would rather not dip into their PTO or vacation time to take care of their personal health needs.

My husbands employer has rolled out a "wellness program" for their 100 employees, that I find refreshing.  An employee can schedule their medical and dental appointment on the same day and not come to work.  With proof that they went to the appointment, they receive an additional PTO day. 

On top of the one free day, they can get another if they show they participated in volunteer work or supporting a cause for a day.  If they run in a cancer awareness 5K, they get a day off added to their time (limit one per year).  The company encourages a monthly group hike, pays a dollar amount that can be used towards a gym membership, weight loss program or home exercise equipment.

Why as a business owner is it beneficial for a company to offer a wellness program?  Healthy employees miss less work.  If people are encouraged to participate in their own wellness, prevention becomes the norm.  Imagine not having employees miss work because of a tooth ache, that could have been printed with regular dental cleanings. Or an employee who does not miss several days of work because they were able to get a flu vaccination.

 An article published by The Harvard Business Review discusses that major companies like Johnson and Johnson have saved millions of dollars over the last decade by implementing wellness programs.  Another study showed that every dollar invested yielded $6 in health care savings.

So, is a wellness program the right fit for your company?  It might be worth visiting the idea!

What Can a Dental Hygienist do for You?

In a time where our health care system is seeing a lot of changes, dental health is still not getting the attention that it needs, or deserves.  According to the National Institutes of Health, 92% of adults have had a cavity  sometime in their life, and 26% have untreated cavities. Half of adults in the USA have some form of periodontal disease (64 million people!).

So, what can a dental hygienist do for you?  In Colorado,dental hygienists have been allowed to open and operate their own practices, without a dentist, since the late 1980's.  It is becoming more prevalent now, especially since more large chain dental offices are popping up.  A dental hygienist has the ability to evaluate for gum disease and treat the disease.  Hygienists also provide preventative dental care through cleanings, fluoride, sealants and other adjuncts.  Your dental hygienist is often the first person who will spot a cavity, cracked tooth, or other problematic findings.  It is the communication that is provided between the dentist and hygienist that is a big part of your dental care.

So, if you choose to visit an independent dental hygienist in Colorado, what can you expect?  Every clinician works differently, but you will find that your hygienist will evaluate for dental caries (cavities), and periodontal disease.  While a hygienist can not treat cavities, they will refer you to a dentist who can.  Your hygienist will help you determine a plan to treat periodontal disease, which can include "deep cleaning", antibiotics, laser treatments and other tips and tools for home care.  Hygienists are often taking a holistic approach to treatment as well, and may offer you suggestions that you may not get in a traditional office.

What is the benefit?  Visiting a dental hygiene office is different form a traditional office.  The atmosphere is usually much more quiet (no drills!), and can often be paired with spa-like treatments.  At my office in Broomfield, Colorado, we offer our patients wine, cappuccino, paraffin hand wax and heated neck wraps.  The quality of care is high, and the desire for patients to be comfortable and relaxed is our priority.  Dental hygiene offices are affordable, with many hygienists billing insurance as part of the service that they offer. SmileLogic, Inc. is a participating provider with Delta Dental of Colorado, Cigna, Medicaid and CHP+.  We take all kinds of insurance, and are happy to help you bill for services that are performed.

Interested in finding a dental hygienist near you? Check out www.myteethcleaned.com to find one in your area.