Your total health begins with your dental hygienist. Did you know that what happens in your mouth may also have an impact on your overall health? Your dental hygienist does. Research suggests a connection between oral health and general health, which means it’s essential to look after your teeth and gums.
It’s not just bad breath or cavities. Research shows that unchecked plaque on the teeth can lead to periodontal disease, which is a risk factor for serious illnesses including diabetes, lung and heart diseases, stroke, pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis, and even pregnancy complications. And while oral health can influence other body systems, therapies for chronic diseases can likewise have an impact on oral health.
Dental hygienists: your essential health care provider
Dental hygienists are more than just the people who assess the health of your mouth and scale your teeth before you see the dentist. They’re specialists — essential primary oral health care professionals — who recommend and provide preventive and therapeutic clinical care, education, and health promotion to help improve your oral health. Dental hygienists are valuable members of your health care team.
From assessing your oral health to providing the appropriate clinical therapy, your dental hygienist is your front-line defence in the quest for better oral and overall health.
It’s important to be proactive when it comes to your oral health. Visit your dental hygienist regularly and make sure to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home. Your dental hygienist can provide you with the knowledge and instruction to make sure you’re on the right path.
