NIP IT IN THE BUD A RENEWED LOOK AT PREVENTATIVE ORAL CARE
We are all familiar with the adage “Prevention is the best medicine,” and when it comes to oral health, and health in general, preventative care really can make all the difference. Not only can preventative care lead to better overall health, it can lower health care-related costs in the future. The results of preventative oral care are impressive. A seven-year study spearheaded by the University of Sydney in Australia confirmed the aforementioned truism. Originally published in 2015, the study examined 1,000 patients at 22 dental practices around Australia. Researchers compared two groups of patients: those who had “drill and fill” treatment (they had two or more cavities per year, plus fillings) and those who took preventative measures. The preventative patients received high-concentration fluoride varnish treatments from their dentists, regularly brushed and flossed, and limited their intake of sugary foods and beverages.
The group of patients who focused on preventative oral care saw their risk of developing tooth decay fall by 30–50 percent. In addition, patients who were considered at high risk for developing tooth decay, but who had improved their oral care, saw their risk drop by a staggering 80 percent! The lead researcher on the study, Professor Wendell Evans, concluded that, in many cases, tooth decay had the potential to be stopped and reversed, if not outright prevented. All it takes is a deliberate approach to care, treatment, and lifestyle. This study is great news for people who hate the idea of getting a filling, whether that antipathy stems from the procedure itself or the resulting medical costs. It also confirms what many dentists have long reminded patients: You can’t beat prevention when it comes to maintaining a healthy smile.
On Thursday, September 28, we will be hosting a VERY important free seminar. HPV-related oral cancer has become an epidemic in the U.S. The seminar will include information on the changing sexual behaviors among tweens and teens, how HPV can cause oral cancer, how HPV-related oral cancer has become an epidemic, the HPV vaccine, and signs and symptoms of HPV-related oral cancer. Complimentary refreshments will be served. The seminar will take place at the Clock Tower Grill in Brewster from 6–8 p.m. Space will definitely fill up quickly, so please call the office ASAP to reserve your space.
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www.putnamdental.com
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1-855-347-7476
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