We still have a long way to go

I have always thought that as a profession we were getting our message ‘out there’. You know the story—brushing, flossing, regular check-ups, etc. But really been successful? Patients drill (pardon pun), but fear they still do not follow through with actions. How many times you asked patient how often brush, what type of brush and use floss. Invariably, answers are ‘three day’, ‘manual or electric brush’ ‘daily flossing’. They tell us this because is think want to hear. However, when carry out oral examination, there plaque everywhere indicative either complete lack ability toothbrush floss in truth about their inadequate hygiene. Take your pick, way it means may got through, action lacking. long go. Now, let's consider more contemporary issue dentistry: whole mouth health for body health. The concepts poor periodontal could be related variety systemic conditions emerged some 25 years ago. As result this, began talk widely need good promote overall well-being. All exciting stuff believe across only patients also medical colleagues. Then reality bites. Just past week, saw three made me realize Patient 1 has long-standing disease managing over 10 years, she very at attending her recall appointments. Her daughter mine florid gingivitis unfortunately spasmodic attender. At visit last informed was excited pregnant expecting baby soon. Great news said, suggested might idea if came see considering problems. This met dismay great astonishment mother We 2 another who attended maintenance visit. A quick check history indicated 6 months, had diagnosed pancreatic cancer participating clinical trial new medication assist management. Two issues immediately arose. first practitioners running consequences take. Disappointing since most anticancer medications significant effects on immune/inflammatory system, thus, potential exists modify conditions. Secondly, small interesting literature suggesting an association between infection inflammation cancer, these patients, reduction some, albeit confirmed, benefit patients. Neither carers aware this. 3 suffered from ulcerative colitis 20 years. visit, condition particularly active, mucosal evident. While condition, reluctant accept meticulous hygiene help. remain convinced bring dentistry closer medicine, path achieving difficult. For almost known connection, unfortunately, public slow pick up go, must give important role play holistic care.