Counseling

A well-balanced, nutritious diet is important for good oral health and overall health. The food we eat provides the nutrients that the body, bones, teeth, and gums need to renew tissues and help fight infection and disease, including gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease. Dental hygienists work with their clients to promote good oral health by keeping the mouth healthy with preventive oral care treatment and nutrition counseling.

Hectic lifestyles, fast food, fad diets, large amounts of sugar and trendy supplements can have many health repercussions. A poor diet can also contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Food high in sugars and starches increases the production of acids that can erode and weaken the tooth’s outer layer (enamel). Eventually, these acids can cause tooth decay. Lack of proper nutrition can lead to other diseases and conditions in the body such as obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and some cancers, including oral cancer.

Tobacco use has a devastating effect on general health and a significant negative impact on oral health. Tobacco use cessation services provided by dental hygienists have a significant positive impact on the quit rate. All forms of tobacco including cigarettes, pipe, cigar and spit tobacco cause addiction and detrimental health effects. The public generally expects oral health professionals to provide tobacco use cessation services.

Electronic cigarets are battery-powered devices that resemble conventional cigarettes. Their use has increased substantially, especially among youth and young adults, since their introduction to North America in 2007, roughly 2.5 million Canadians have now tried using e-cigarettes. Although perceived as less harmful than tobacco, e-cigarettes are not harmless products. Short term studies have identified several negative effects on one’s health. When combined with nicotine and flavoring one’s addiction increases. Which can also potentially be a gateway to other drugs.

According to The World Health Organization, cannabis is the most used recreational drug. Regular cannabis use can lead to a higher incidence of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Your dental hygienist can help you understand the risks of cannabis use while she regularly monitors your oral health for any unplanned consequences. It is important for your dental hygienist to know all your medical conditions and any medications you may be taking in order to provide safe and effective recommendations and treatments. The more your dental hygienist knows about your personal health history, the more customized your dental hygiene care can be.