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    1. Dentistry
    2. Oral-systemic Health

    Dental professionals are not alone in our efforts to promote good oral hygiene

    Dec. 1, 2013
    Like most men, Dr. Teofilo Limosnero was long overdue for a physical exam. “It was the first time I learned that we as dental health-care professionals are not alone in our efforts to promote good oral hygiene. During the course of the new-patient interview with my physician, he asked me, ‘Do you floss regularly?’ He explained that with current research potentially linking periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, it was important that his patients maintain good oral hygiene, especially flossing, since he knew it was probably the one thing people did less often if at all.”

    Like most men, I was long overdue for a physical exam. Because I was not particularly happy with my current doctor, this gave me an additional reason to postpone making that appointment. Well, I could wait no longer. I was in the process of applying for new health insurance, so at the recommendation of a close friend, I decided I would schedule an appointment with his doctor. I am so glad I did, for several reasons.

    RELATED |The link between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease: A brief overview

    One, I was long overdue. But more importantly, it was the first time I learned that we as dental health-care professionals are not alone in our efforts to promote good oral hygiene. During the course of the new-patient interview with my physician, he asked me, “Do you floss regularly?” I was surprised to hear that question since I was the one usually asking my patients. After answering, I inquired why he asked that particular question and did he ask it of all his patients. He explained that with current research potentially linking periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, it was important that his patients maintain good oral hygiene, especially flossing, since he knew it was probably the one thing people did less often if at all. I was impressed!

    That same year, one of my patients was about to undergo open-heart surgery, and I was surprised to get a medical consult from his surgeon. He requested that I verify the patient did not have active periodontal disease. As part of his preparation for surgery, his surgeon wanted to minimize the potential for postsurgical complications, including any potential sources for infection. The patient came to the office for his routine hygiene appointment and an exam, updated periodontal charting, and radiographs were taken. Because of his good oral hygiene and maintaining regularly scheduled hygiene appointments, his gums were healthy and he was cleared of having active periodontal disease.

    Both of these situations are perfect examples of other health-care professionals recognizing the contribution of good oral health to good overall and cardiovascular health. What a great reason for us to stress to our patients the importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental exams as the cornerstone of prevention and early detection of periodontal disease.

    It’s likely that our patients brush regularly. It is, however, not so evident that they are as diligent with their flossing. And for some patients, even the knowledge that good oral hygiene could greatly improve their chances of preventing periodontal disease is not enough to get them to add regular flossing their regimen. However, educating our patients about the potential to decrease their risk of not only gum disease but cardiovascular disease may be the difference and motivation these patients need.

    Motivating patients to have good oral hygiene habits can be a challenge. But what they ultimately do at home is their choice. As along as we educate, inform, and give our recommendations, we know we’ve done our job. The rest is up to them.

    ADDITIONAL READING ...
    Oral-systemic associations: 2013
    New clinical recommendations from AAP encourage comprehensive periodontal evaluations for people with diabetes
    Periodontal disease incidence
    What's next in oral-systemics?
    Oral-systemic links
    Where Oral Meets Systemic
    How much evidence is enough?
    How general dentists and periodontists can provide personalized preventive care for patients
    Blood in the sink: How the relationship between oral and systemic health is gaining momentum – and what dental professionals need to know, part I
    Blood in the sink: How the relationship between oral and systemic health is gaining momentum – and what dental professionals need to know, part II

    Teo Limosnero
    Teofilo Limosnero, DDS, or "Dr. Teo" as he is known by his patients, is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Champaign/Urbana where he received a bachelor of science degree in microbiology. He then attended the University of Illinois College of Dentistry where he received a bachelor's degree in dental science and his doctoral degree in dental surgery. Dr. Teo is also a graduate of the Chicago School of Massage Therapy. He has been in private practice since 1992, focusing primarily on comprehensive general dentistry with an emphasis on cosmetics. Dr. Teo splits his workweek between his downtown practice and UIC College of Dentistry where he teaches as clinical assistant professor. His practice philosophy is based on quality care and compassion that respects the patient's right to choose treatment options based on his or her own personal health-care philosophy. He is committed to building a trusting relationship with his patients knowing that a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile can alter lives! Dentistry is a constantly evolving field with new materials, techniques, and equipment. To keep up with modern dental technology, Dr. Teo continues to learn and perfect his clinical skills by participating in yearly continuing education courses from prominent and well-respected dental institutions such as Gold Dust's Clinical Mastery Program, Upward Dental, the Dawson Academy, the Seattle Institute, the Hornbrook Group, and the JP Institute. These classroom and live-patient courses range in topics from comprehensive esthetic dentistry and Invisalign techniques to dental practice management and implant dentistry. Out of the office, Dr. Teo is very active with his family, friends, and the community. Since 2003 he has been an active performing member of the Chicago Spirit Brigade or CSB, a nonprofit, adult, volunteer organization comprised of cheer, dance, and drill teams. CSB is committed to raising funds for people living with life-threatening challenges such as AIDS, HIV, cancer, or homelessness. He has served as a board member, treasurer, and currently as both performing member and general manager.