What’s the secret to social acceptance, upward mobility, meaningful relationships, quality employment options, and positive self-esteem?
Your smile!
Yes, poor oral health really can determine whether you reach the top rung of your potential ladder – or not.
Poor Oral Health Takes a Physical and Emotional Toll
Even if you don’t think of yourself as a “top rung” kind of person, a lot can get in the way of feeling good about your smile. The most common issues are:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Enamel erosion
- Gum recession
- Fractures
- Missing teeth
- Abscess
To varying degrees, any one of these problems can lead to infection and pain – and a cascade of other problems. As dental disease progresses, you may find it harder to chew. Difficulty chewing can end in getting fewer nutrients from food. Less nutrient availability can decrease overall health. A decrease in overall health contributes to inflammation. Inflammation in the mouth has been linked to a growing number of systemic health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and stroke.
Lean On Your Hygienist for Support
Even when you try to be your own best advocate, dental issues can crop up. Just because you take an active role in our health, it doesn’t mean you don’t need support.
The truth is, advocates need allies – someone who can understand where you are and where you want to be, and support you in the process. When it comes to oral health, your hygienist is one of those allies.
Routine hygiene visits are the preventative measure to keep things running smoothly. Not only are six month hygiene visits motivating; they reveal any issues early on, when they can be more easily treated. They give you the opportunity to address any concerns and get professional input.
The Patient-Hygienist Relationship
Understanding goes a long way in creating an allied relationship. We sometimes have to share bad news first. It’s never meant as a judgment. It’s our professional view of what we see. We do our best to deliver this information in a helpful way so together we can devise the best strategy for solving the problem. No doubt, sharing difficult information can bring up feelings. In our office, these feelings are valued. They’re a necessary component in helping you reach your personal health goals.
If dental issues are getting between you are your smile, maybe it’s time to touch base with your dental ally, your hygienist.
About THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently situated with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we offer most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures, complete dental rebuilding and TMJ/ Headache management. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.
