Caitlin Miller, head of hygiene and therapy at Bupa Dental Care, discusses why you should engage patients in gum health conversations.
We’re often told to take care of our teeth when growing up, but what about our gums? Many people don’t realise that gum health also plays an important role in overall health.
For National Gum Awareness Month this February, Caitlin Miller, head of hygiene and therapy at Bupa Dental Care, explains why talking to patients about the evolving role of dentistry in whole-body health can help them rethink oral health as they know it.
The oral-systemic link
With increasing evidence showing links between changes in the oral microbiome and changes in overall health, now is an ideal time to talk to patients about what this means for them. But what should we be telling them?
As health professionals, we know that gum disease can impact the entire body, yet some patients aren’t aware that signs visible in their mouths could signal broader health concerns or exacerbate existing conditions. Others might recognise that their oral health is significant, but they may not fully grasp its importance.
The key message for clinicians is not to assume that everyone is aware of the connections, and to assess each patient’s knowledge and understanding of how oral health supports whole-body health.
For instance, while someone may realise the need to brush their teeth more frequently due to having diabetes, they might not understand the reasons behind it. So, find out if they’re aware how fluctuating blood sugar levels can impact their gums, and vice versa. Ask if they have discussed their health with a GP or a diabetes nurse to ensure they understand the ongoing support available to them. And encourage them to see us like any other healthcare professional and visit regularly so that we can monitor their oral health.
By taking them on this journey, we can help provide the support they may need in future.
Engaging patients in the chair
Regular visits to the dentist or hygienist mean we can continually bring this into conversation with patients each time they’re in the chair. There’s no better place for these discussions than face-to-face, where we can unpack the complexities, answer any questions they may have, and tailor advice to suit their individual needs. The goal is to make sure patients leave their appointments with a greater understanding of the holistic role we play in their overall wellbeing and the wider healthcare eco-system.
Here are some top tips to share with patients for maintaining good gum health:
- Don’t forget to clean in between your teeth using interdental brushes – they’re a must for reaching the areas that your brush cannot, removing plaque that could otherwise cause decay
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste
- Spit, don’t rinse, after brushing, as rinsing will wash away the fluoride benefits from your toothpaste
- Visit your dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups
- Know the signs of gum disease – if your gums bleed when you brush, or are red and swollen, it’s time to get them checked out by your dentist or hygienist and really enhance your oral hygiene routine
- Consider your diet and lifestyle choices – not smoking or vaping, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet all help reduce your risk of health complications, both in your mouth and beyond
- Be open with your dentist and hygienist about any wider health concerns you may have. This openness allows us to provide the best care possible
- When it comes to taking care of your oral health, think of it as a way to care for your whole body. Your mouth and body work together as a team, so give them both the attention they deserve. Remember that a healthy smile contributes to your overall wellbeing.
At Bupa Dental Care, we believe in taking a holistic approach to health, with both dental care and health insurance services to care for our patients and our people, supporting them to live longer, healthier, happier lives.
This article is sponsored by Bupa Dental Care.
