Ways to improve dental hygiene in patients

The month of October is National Dental Hygiene Month. It is a month dedicated to informing the general public about the importance of developing a good dental hygiene routine. This celebration first began in 2009 with the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and Wrigley. 

As a dentist, you can celebrate this month by informing your patients about the importance of good dental hygiene. Take a look at some ways you can help your dental patients improve their overall dental hygiene and how a sedation dentistry Overland Park KS educator can help!

Why is proper dental hygiene important?

Brushing and flossing every day may seem like a waste of time to some people, but it can also prevent health problems. Poor dental hygiene has been linked to health problems like heart disease, dementia, respiratory infections, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. 

How does this occur? Well, bacteria can make their way into the body through the mouth. If there is an opening in the gum or teeth, bacteria can make their way through the bloodstream and spread. For example, research shows that gum disease is considered a risk factor for heart and lung disease, diabetes and other conditions. 

Ways to improve dental hygiene in patients 

Educate dental patients about poor dental hygiene 

Some people might not even be aware that they are living with poor dental hygiene. For them, it could seem normal. That is why it is important for dentists to talk to patients about what poor dental hygiene looks like and what symptoms accompany it. Here are some common signs of bad hygiene: 

• Tooth pain

• Bleeding or swollen gums

• Lumps or sores in the mouth

• Gums erosion 

Help dental patients develop a proper dental cleaning routine

Another critical topic to educate your patients about is the importance of creating a dental care routine. The American Dental Association recommends that everyone should brush their teeth twice a day. Flossing should be done daily to remove anything between the teeth, and mouthwash should be used after flossing and brushing. 

Talk to dental patients about dental discount plans 

Getting regular dental cleanings and treatments for dental problems is the best way to keep teeth healthy. However, not all dental patients can afford these dentist visits. Reports found that 80 percent of Americans delay dental care because they cannot afford it. If your patients need treatment and cannot afford it, talk to them about dental discount plans.

Offer Level 1 sedation to anxious patients 

Level 1 sedation, also known as minimal sedation, causes a minimally depressed level of consciousness produced by prescribed medication. This kind of sedation is helpful to patients who get severe anxiety when visiting a dentist’s office. It helps calm the patient and makes it easier for the dentist to get procedures done quicker. 

Are you looking for a sedation dentistry Overland Park KS educator? 

Visit Midwest Sedation Consultants. We provide dental sedation courses online to dental professionals. Our courses are approved in eight states like Nebraska, Kansas, Oregon, North Carolina, North Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia. Register for a course here.