My family physician recently came in for his recare appointment. Following his exam, our discussion quickly turned to how he recognizes in his practice that healthy mouths reflect a much better chance for a healthy body. In the eight years that he has been taking care of us, I cannot recall a discussion that ever touched on this. He referred to some newly released studies linking periodontal disease and heart health. Essentially, he stated that he tells patients, “If you want to live long and healthy, you better brush the ones you want to keep for your lifetime.” He’s right!
Those patients with periodontal disease are often naïve and not nearly as keen about the health and wellness connection that exists between the oral environment and the body. Simply put, we dental professionals need to consistently elevate our educational efforts to reach this critical patient sector.
We are doing a great job of creating and communicating the beauty factor and cosmetic possibilities, but there is much more work to be done in the area of periodontal health and well-being.
This month, Woman Dentist Journal is excited to present current information on periodontal wellness and its relationship not only to cardiovascular disease, but also other medical presentations. We will also examine the role of inflammation as it relates to the mouth and body. Use this as an opportunity to share these two articles and open a dialogue with the physicians and cardiologists in your community. Who knows what that may lead to ... more knowledge and better understanding, all the while advancing patient care.
In this issue, we also focus on empowering hygienists by giving them the tools to do the best job, take pleasure in it, and have the most positive patient impact. These articles will address ergonomic tools, the issue of flossing, and compensation. We ALL need to realize that the hygienist spends more time with the patient than any other team member. Take this occasion to express verbally your appreciation for your hygienist’s talent. Continue to build up your hygienist and value his/her importance!
And finally, you will gain a unique insight into life as a journey when you read about our cover dentist, Dr. Laura Braswell. Her energy, passion, and positive attitude are infectious.
Here’s to spring, flowers, and mothers ...
Lori Trost, DMD
Dr. Trost is the managing editor of Woman Dentist Journal. She can be contacted by email at [email protected].
