DID YOU EVER CONSIDER THAT 20,000,000 people see a dentist yearly and not their medical doctor? Crazy, I know but that is the new statistic that was released about medical care in the United States. At Dr Bell and Lossing’s office we are all concerned with our patients’ overall systemic health and we want our patients to know that you are important to us and we are staying on top of all the latest information. Every year Dr Bell takes the team to San Antonio for the TDA meeting and we all take classes to serve our patients better. I took a course on probiotics and supplements this year and we want to keep our patients in the loop of the new research.
Probiotics Are The New Hot Topic In Dentistry
Probiotics fall under two different categories; supplements and food. The supplement form of probiotics can be found in capsules, tablets, powder packets, straws and lozenges. The food form of probiotics include yogurts, dairy products such as buttermilk, kefir, and infant formulas.
The good bacteria repopulates the beneficial bacterias and fight against infection. In dentistry, probiotics are now being used to prevent decay, gingivitis and periodontitis. The newest research shows that probiotics help with fresher breath, whiter teeth and supports gum and tooth health. Probiotics are being used for the aging population, they work well for patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia and people with limited dexterity. Special needs patient are also benefitting from use of probiotics.
Let Us Know If You’re Taking Any Supplements
Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs amino acids and enzymes. Supplements are marketed in tablets, capsules, softgels and gelcaps. It is very important to tell your medical doctor and your dentist if you are taking any supplements. Some supplements can have side effects before, during and after surgery. The supplement precautions in dentistry include:
- Ephedra
- Garlic
- Ginseng
- Ginkgo
- Kava
- St John’s Wort
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
These supplements can be associated with bleeding and can affect the response to anesthesia.
Some Supplements Can Support Dental Health
There are many supplements that are very beneficial in dentistry. Calcium and Vitamin D are great for bone health and helpful in periodontal disease. As with all supplements, make sure that you are taking the right dosage and not taking too much or taking products that do not interact well with one another.
We are committed to keeping our patients healthy!! We are updating all medical histories and keeping a list of all medications and supplements. Please inform us of any illnesses, surgeries or special diets that you may be on. In regards to the saying that the mouth is the entry way to your overall systemic health, think about the bacteria that is in your mouth and it will help you to understand how important it is to have routine dental care.
Thanks For Being Our Valued Patient!
Thank you for letting the team at Dr Bell and Lossing’s office serve your dental needs. Remember to call for your dental hygiene visit, come in and have your exam and get your teeth sparkling for summer:)