In the New Year, many of us make resolutions. For some of us, it may have an emotional component, like “spending more time with our family.” For others, it may be of a physical nature, like trying to lose weight. But there may be other physical needs, like fixing your teeth.
When you get your teeth taken care of, it can improve your overall health, chewing function, oral musculature, nutrition, and appearance. The goals of losing weight are similar. Walking and exercise are easier, medical issues like high blood pressure and diabetes are better controlled and you look better as well. But while weight loss can be achieved by limiting your food/caloric intake, dental improvements often require the help of a dental professional – like a dental hygienist or general dentist.
What Happens at the Checkup
When you are in the chair getting your teeth cleaned, the hygienist removes hard deposits (tartar) as well as soft ones (plaque). Though the hard deposits are mostly annoying, the plaque involves bacteria which can be detrimental to your teeth and overall health.
It’s the bacteria that feed off many of our foods causing acid to attack our teeth and gums, causing cavities and tissue problems. You can resolve to do a better job at home brushing and flossing to remove debris, but a trip to the hygienist two or three times a year can ensure that you are doing it effectively, as well as eliminating the “hard to find” tartar and plaque.
Digital radiographs ( x-rays) and photos can be used to look for decay, bone abnormalities and periodontal diseases. The hygienist will also look for possible tissue problems or growths that may – or may not – be cancer-related.
And at your visit, the dentist plays a similar role, in both diagnosing and treating problems. Additionally, she or he can give the patient suggestions on improving the bite as well as other cosmetic options.
On many occasions, I have seen patients who came in with chewing problems due to loose teeth, missing teeth, or joint issues. With the help of today’s dental materials and techniques, including flexible partial dentures, implants and bridges, they have told me they can eat things that they couldn’t chew before – improving their food options and subsequent nutrition; they can now enjoy things like fish, chicken, fresh vegetables and fruit, rather than relying on soups and energy boosters.
These same dental materials and techniques can also lead to an improvement in appearance and self-esteem. We recently treated two women, one who was attending her daughter’s wedding, while the second was approaching her 55th high school reunion. Both patients were kind enough to send “thank you notes” to our team. .”
These are a reminder of important our work in dentistry is and makes us look forward to the future. Whether we are helping our patients stay healthier by improving their ability to chew or by assisting with their appearance and self-confidence, the results are thrilling to our patients and gratifying to us. As we move into 2020, make your year better by improving your oral health, functionally and emotionally.
