NFD Wellness

Are you wondering about starting a wellness program in your dental office?  We hope to share how we started the wellness program in dentistry at our offices.

Wellness is about everything and not just about working out or eating well. Doing those things are important but not enough to stay well and  wellness in a dental office extends to how the schedule is designed or working relationships between teams or even the sense of appreciation or purpose among team members.

Dentistry as a professional can be challenging and those same challenges present at a single or multi-provider office.  It may be the same challenging for a single dentist or a group of dentist to start a wellness program in dentistry. Those challenging can only grow as the dental practice grows.  In this blog, we outline our wellness program in dentistry and hope this can help you to start yours.

Our dental team has been continuing to grow every year and it is important for us to grow smart, which means to keep the important things that made us great at first place and not to lose those things as we grow. In order to keep the traditions and the things that got to be the best dental office in Lincoln, NE for years in a row, we created mission goals to reflect our culture and goals and for everyone to be clear on what we are trying to achieve daily as a dental group.

At Nebraska Family Dentistry we created  two simple mission goals:

#1 To become the friendliest dental office in town

#2 To have a great place for our team members to work at.

Wellness program in dentistry and mission goals, how are they connected?  

Starting a wellness program in dentistry back in 2017 is our way to accomplish those missions goals for our patients and teams.

We believe that promoting wellness creates an environment where team members will enjoy working while providing the best experience for patient care. Our wellness program created in 2018 targeted towards keeping our patients and team members healthier, happier and hopefully helping them to live longer lives.

You can learn more about Living Longer and Better by Dr. Kathryn Alderman Here.

Wellness program in dentistry and our patients

We recognize that for patients, the dental office is usually not their favorite place to be. When patients come to our office, we want to give them the very best clinical care possible while helping them feel at ease during their appointments.

As dental providers, we know that patients are more likely to see us more frequently than their medical doctors throughout the year. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and often underlying systemic health problems may manifest themselves in various dental diseases or lesions in the mouth. At each wellness visit, we carefully review patients’ medical and dental histories to be aware of any medications they may be taking and any health conditions or allergies to foods, chemicals or medications. As a part of the wellness visit, we examine the soft tissues of the mouth for any signs of gum disease or oral cancer lesions. One of the most important things to us is helping patients identify any lifestyle risk factors or medical conditions that might be contributing negatively to their dental health. The dentist and hygienist will spend time counseling patients about any changes that could be made to the patient’s daily routine. They may recommend dietary supplements, changes in diet, exercise routine and advice on how to manage stress. Our goal is to treat the whole patient, not just their dental problems.

Watch our presentation:

Living Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle

and

How Dental Health is connected to Overall Health

Wellness program in dentistry and weekly health tips for our teams and patients.

Every week, we share wellness tips with our teams and patients.

Check out just a few and for more tips follow us on:

•  Facebook
• Instagram

Wellness program in dentistry and wellness-oriented blogs

While it is important to have information about preventing cavities and treating periodontal disease and many others dental topics, our wellness oriented writers write blogs that connect dental and overall health. Check out an article on anti-inflammatory lifestyle and the importance of lifestyle changes in order to put the periodontal disease in remission or to prevent it.

Check out: Living Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle

Wellness program in dentistry, our teams and clean air by IQAir

IQAir assists people in living longer, healthier lives by providing the very best air quality products in the world. We are proud to offer clean air to our teams and patients.

As a part of our wellness program for both providers and patients, we installed an air-filtration system to help reduce the number of harmful aerosols that are created during dental appointments. The air-filtration system helps to remove excess mercury vapor that is released into the air during the removal of old amalgam fillings. In addition to this office-wide system, we have individual air-vacuum units at each of our locations. This vacuum helps to pull more of these vapors in close proximity to the patient’s face during amalgam removal. Not only does this new system reduce the risk to patients during appointments, but it helps to keep our office safer for the staff by reducing the mercury vapors and bacterial aerosols during patient care hours.

We use IQAir air filtration system. It is the world leader in air purification and provides the highest grade of air filtration technology on the market. Our filtration is able to capture ultra-fine particles down to .003 microns and clean 90% of the particles through all applications dentistry. This top of the line air cleaning systems has high-efficiency special filters that catch harmful things such as:

• Mercury vapors/ gas
• Harmful parts of disinfectants
• Volatile organic compounds used in dental materials

Wellness program in dentistry and healthy snacks for our teams

As a part of our wellness program in dentistry, we have snacks available for our teams.  We try to avoid providing snack with high amounts of sugar and focus on stocking snack shelves with protein and fiber-rich snacks, such as nuts, oranges, and whole wheat crackers.

Wellness program in dentistry and wellness-oriented group activities

Our team at Nebraska Family Dentistry also actively promotes wellness among ourselves. Our team regularly shares wellness tips on our private Facebook group. Each team member contributes a tip each week. We also do group activities that promote wellness, like group exercise classes, movie nights, and team lunch and learn events where we talk about ways we can improve our own wellness as well as insights on how we can provide better patient care to you.

As a team, we choose to be warm and positive each day with one another as well as our patients. Using positive language and recognizing and appreciating one another each day with compliments on a job well done or thanking one another for helping out keeps team morale high.

Team members give out “Recognition Cards” which are a thank-you note for a job well done and helping above of what is expected. Those appreciation cards are encouraged to be shared among team members every time someone helps each other above and beyond of what is expected. This type of recognition for team members may seem small, but it helps team members feel appreciated for their efforts. Each team member is thanked quarterly by the doctors with a gift for a job well done with the amount reflecting the number of appreciation cards that team member collected.

Our Appreciation Card as a part of our wellness program in dentistry

It is important to reward team members individually and as a team together. At our offices, we work really hard every single day to provide exceptional dental care and it is important to have strong teams working well together.

Team relationships and wellness program in dentistry

Healthy team relationships are important in order to achieve wellness environment. To encourage healthy team approach, each team has it ” Team Fund” where money get deposited for getting things done that are important for running our dental offices smoothly. We have a list of daily things that simply need to be done and at the end of the day if those things get completed, money get deposited to “Team Fun Fund.”

Those daily things cannot be accomplished by just one person and always takes a whole team working together. The amounts that get deposited vary from $5-$10 per day and after the amounts build up, teams spend it any way they desire on activities, lunch or spa day.

Conclusion about wellness program in dentistry

At Nebraska Family Dentistry,  we work very hard in creating that best dental office for patients to choose for their dental care.

Creating our wellness program allows us to accomplish our mission goals and to be at our best every day.

Dr. Brad and Dr. Kathryn Alderman

Your Dentist in Lincoln, NE Explains How Diabetes and (Periodontal) Gum disease connect

Diabetes is known as a systemic disease. Systemic means that it affects the whole body, not just one area. Since our body is one working unit, what goes into our mouth can affect the entire body and vice versa, something systemic that happens in other areas, can indeed affect the mouth. Diabetes may be something that a person is genetically predisposed to or it may be something that develops as a result of lifestyle. It has many diverse complications and can be extremely difficult to control.

What are different types of diabetes? Are all forms of diabetes can lead to dental problems? Your dentist in Lincoln, NE answers…

There are many types of diabetes. Most commonly, we know of two; Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes means that a person is insulin dependent and Type 2 means that a person may be able  to control the effects of diabetes with diet and exercise. Thus, possibly even reversing it.

There are also other types of diabetes such as the type that can affect expectant mothers occurring during pregnancy, which is known as gestational diabetes. A person can also be considered “pre-diabetic.” In this case a person will present with slightly elevated. If steps are not taken to bring the blood sugars down to an acceptable level, a person will progress and become diabetic.

All forms of diabetes are connected closely to dental health.  Patients with any form of diabetes tend to have a higher risk for developing cavities, dry mouth and gum disease.

So, why does being diabetic or pre-diabetic affect what happens with my teeth? Your dentist in Lincoln, NE answers…

When you have diabetes, whether insulin resistant or a deficiency in insulin secretion, there is the inability to transport glucose, which then remains within the bloodstream leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). This can then lead to diabetic complications. The most common complications with which we are familiar include neuropathy (weakness, numbness, pain) and delayed wound healing. Many times, diabetics can experience non-healing wounds, especially on their feet where a person who has neuropathy may never even know they bumped their toe. Another complication that is experienced by diabetics is periodontitis, which is inflammation within the tissue surrounding the teeth. Periodontitis can then develop into Periodontal Disease, which is the sixth complication of diabetes. Once Periodontal Disease has set in, a person now has a chronic bacterial infection that will affect the teeth and bone (within the mouth). Certain microorganisms, in particular those that are gram-negative, are in the bacterial plaque and begin adhering to the teeth. Many times, Periodontal Disease is silent and can be present without being noticed up until a person is experiencing tooth mobility (loose teeth) or even worse, tooth loss.

Things that a person with periodontitis might experience are bleeding when brushing or flossing, and possibly even increased sensitivity or pain. If a diabetic develops periodontitis it is very important to seek treatment to help prevention and progression. It is known that a person who has poorly controlled diabetes, is more likely to develop Periodontal Disease over a person who has diabetes, but controls it either with diet and insulin or insulin alone. As diabetes and periodontitis progress together affecting the mouth, it can eventually lead to a loss in social confidence as well as a loss in self-esteem. Thus, possibly leading to poor lifestyle choices.

In a recent study it was determined that there was a definite correlation between Type 2 diabetes and periodontitis. People who presented with Type 2 diabetes and underwent periodontal treatment, showed a decrease in a certain serum (which included inflammatory cytokins).  Overall, once they completed periodontal treatment the inflammation decreased thus resulting in improved glycemic control. The end result, a healthier body with reduced inflammation.

Now that you know there is a correlation between Periodontal Disease and Diabetes, what can you do to help keep both the mouth and diabetes in check? Your dentist in Lincoln, NE answers…

The bottom line is that if you have diabetes, Type 1, Type 2, gestational diabetes, or even if you are pre-diabetic, take care of yourself! Make healthy lifestyle choices and doing all of the right things will help your overall health and inflammation. You’ll feel good about yourself too, knowing you’ve made good choices. That right there is an easy confidence booster.

The following lifestyle choices can decrease the risk of developing periodontal disease and can help keep it in remission in patients who already have it.

• Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, the kinds found in fatty fish (herring, salmon, sardines, trout, tuna,) or fish oil, and flaxseed.
• Avoiding eating processed foods.
• Avoiding eating foods with added sugars, such as fructose. Stopping drinking soda or energy drinks.
• Taking probiotics with multiple strains of beneficial bacteria. Taking Vitamin C and D daily.
• Eliminating foods such as dairy or foods that contain gluten that may be causing sensitivity to as allergies potentially create inflammation in the gut.
• Exercising regularly — it’s a natural anti-inflammatory.
• Practicing deep relaxation like yoga, deep breathing, biofeedback, or massage, as stress worsens the immune response.
• Sleeping at least 7 – 8 hours each night.

Check out this infographic on this topic:
(Click image to enlarge)

This informative blog prepared by Dr.Sullivan, Your Dentist in Lincoln, NE

Dr. Chris Sullivan earned her DDS degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. He’s dedicated to providing patients empathetic care that meets patient’s unique needs, including those with diabetes. To learn how Dr. Chris Sullivan can help you to be at your healthiest schedule online 24/7.

Implant Dentures

Implant dentures are the most advanced and effective method of teeth replacement available.

Advantages of Implant-Retained Dentures

–  1  –
Denture Stability

Implant dentures are permanent, so you won’t have to worry about your denture falling out. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about your denture interrupting your ability to chew, talk, or smile.

–  2  –
Prevent Changing Face Shape

Because of the structure of implant-retained dentures, your face will not change shape like traditional dentures often cause. Implant-retained dentures help preserve bone loss, unlike their traditional counterparts. Your face will retain its shape and look more healthy with implant-retained dentures.

–  3  –
Your Teeth Won’t Fall Out

Denture implants allow you to chew without any concern. Once the implant is secured, it will be held in place permanently. No need to avoid your favorite foods anymore with permanent dentures!

–  4  –
Teeth for Life

Denture implants are made out of titanium and will last your whole life. Take care of your dentures and you’ll guarantee a long, happy smile.

–  5  –
More Inexpensive than Other Dental Implants

Surprisingly, denture implants can cost less than other types of dentures. The value of this procedure is high when you compare hybrid prosthesis with other, less efficient methods of placing dentures.

Commonly Asked Questions about Implant Retained Dentures

Best types of dentures?
Implant-retained dentures are the ideal option for dentures. Implants stabilize your dentures and stop bone loss. Ultimately, implant dentures also increase confidence with a bright smile.

Best alternative to a denture?
The best alternative to a denture is a permanent hybrid prosthesis. Hybrid prosthesis uses multiple implants to support bridges over your implant sites. This procedure also gives you a natural-looking smile with implants that permanently act like teeth.

Do dental implants hurt?
Most patients prefer sedation when having implant dentures placed. Pain and discomfort are usually minimal after the procedure, and you can expect to be back to normal in a couple of days. It’s important to note that some experience pain more than others, and our doctors can’t always predict the amount of pain you’ll experience.

The cost of implant dentures?
The dentists at Nebraska Family Dentistry utilize a revolutionary procedure called hybrid prosthesis. The new process replaces all of your teeth in one appointment. Also known as teeth in one day, the procedure is performed by our dentists alongside the oral surgeons at Nebraska Facial and Oral Surgery. The best way to learn about the procedure’s cost is to set up a consultation with any of our partner locations. At your consultation, the dentist will tell you a flat rate price for the procedure which won’t change.

Can smokers have implant-retained dentures?
Dentists usually recommend that patients quit smoking before receiving implant dentures. Smoking makes it difficult for the gums to heal, which often causes the implant to fail.

Nebraska Family Dentistry has multiple locations!
Choose any location convenient for you.

Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE:
Our annual Candy Buy Back is back for the fifth year in a row.

“Kids love candy, but eating a lot of sugar causes dental problems as well as health concerns,” says Dr. Kathryn Alderman. “We are doing a Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE program at all of our locations to help give kids the opportunity to get rid of their extra Halloween candy and earn some money. Kids can still enjoy trick-or-treating while earning some extra money for their piggy-bank at our 2018 Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE.” 

For the fifth consecutive year, all locations of Nebraska Family Dentistry will be hosting an annual candy buy back in Lincoln, NE. Kids can bring their extra Halloween candy to any of our locations and earn $0.50 per lb. 

Nebraska Family Dentistry locations participating in Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE 2018 program:

Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE (East Lincoln Dental Office)
Preserve Family Dentistry

Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE (South Lincoln Dental Office)
Southpointe Dental

Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE (North Lincoln Dental Office)
Northstar Dental

Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE (Central Lincoln Dental Office)
Lincoln Family Dentistry

Halloween Candy Buy Back in Lincoln, NE  (West Lincoln Dental Office)
Coddington Dental

If you are searching for “candy buy-back dental office near me,” Search no further. Nebraska Family Dentistry has locations throughout Lincoln, NE and all are participating in the candy buy-back program for 2018.

Why Do We Have a Candy Buy-Back Every Year?

Dental decay is the most common childhood disease in the U.S. We know that the health of the mouth can tell us a lot about a person’s overall wellness. Kids who have a higher incidence of cavities are at a higher risk of childhood obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Dental problems cause kids to miss 51 million hours at school. For their parents,  this means 25 million hours missed at work every year. At Nebraska Family Dentistry, we care about the well-being of kids. We want to help kids improve their overall wellness by helping them improve their dental health.

Every year, we do a Halloween candy buy back Lincoln, NE program to help bring awareness to the community about health risks of diets high in processed sugars.

Sugar and overall health connection.

Inflammation is our body’s natural response to stress, infection or bacteria and protects us from getting sick. Unfortunately, when a person’s inflammatory response remains activated, over time this causes chronic health problems.

A high level of sugar intake can increase inflammation in the body. Inflammation from sugar can cause many health problems for children. Health problems like asthma, eczema, behavioral problems, diabetes, and weight gain can be linked to the over-consumption of sugar.

Eating excess sugar can lead to cavities as well by feeding the bacteria that are normally present in the mouth. This creates an acidic environment in the mouth that leads to the breakdown of tooth structure.

Unfortunately, many “health” foods that are labeled organic or all-natural often contain added sugars like dextrose and rice syrup. When kids reach for sugary foods, they are less likely to be hungry for wholesome, nutrient-dense foods. Often times they are then unable to meet basic daily vitamin and mineral requirements.

Many parents ask us to explain the risks of eating too much sugar to their kids. By answering those common questions, you can discuss the risks of eating too much sugar for overall health with your kids. Giving kids a solution like a candy buy-back in Lincoln, NE helps them be a part of the decision to reduce their sugar intake.

How can we talk to kids about sugar?

The first question is, “what is sugar?”There are several forms of sugar that can be added to foods and do not occur naturally in our foods. White table sugar, honey, maple syrup and brown sugar are all processed sugars that are added to other foods to sweeten them. Some other sugars that are found in our foods are lactose, which is in milk, fructose which is from fruit, and starches from bread and pasta. Lactose, fructose and starches are naturally occurring within the food and not added later. These naturally occurring sugars are better fuel for our bodies. This is because they are combined with fiber and nutrients that our body can use efficiently for fuel. The processed forms of sugar are not used the same way by the body.

In our ten reasons why sugar is bad for us, we explain how our body tries to use processed sugar and why this type of fuel is not ideal to help us grow strong and healthy.

It is important to explain: “All Food is Fuel” concept

Kids should know how important it is for us to fuel our bodies with good nutrition. It can be helpful to use the analogy of our bodies being like a car. If we do not put the right kind of fuel into our car, it will not be able to drive. The same is true of our bodies. By giving our bodies wholesome nutrition like rice, nuts, seeds, beans, pasta, healthy fats and lean proteins, they will be able to grow strong, stay healthy and feel good. Cookies or candy are okay sometimes. We should however try to only eat them after we have given ourselves good, whole foods that we eat every day.

It is good for kids to understand that not all sugar is bad for them. Be sure they are aware of how much and how often they eat foods with added sugars. It is possible for kids to be healthy and occasionally have a sweet treat, after they have given their body the good food it needs to thrive. Kids should know it is okay for them to enjoy some of their Halloween candy, but if they have a lot left over, it’s great to do a Halloween candy buy back in Lincoln, NE to reduce the amount they eat.

How Much Sugar Is Too Much?

So how much-added sugar can a child eat in a day to avoid health problems? The World Health Organization recommends that no more than 10 percent of our daily intake of food come from added sugars, although less than 10% is a better target for most of us.

For example, for a moderately active 55 lb five-year-old child, that is around 6-12 tsp of added sugar a day. It is easy to exceed the daily recommended limit of sugar with a few common foods kids eat.

A Quaker Maple and Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal Packet contains 29 grams of sugar, which is equal to about 7.25 tsp of sugar. At the first meal of the day, a child could meet or exceed their daily recommendation of added sugar. If they add an 8 oz glass of Tropicana orange juice, this is another 22 grams or 5 ½ tsp of sugar. Fruit juices are tricky because although they come from fruit, they often contain added sugars. Additionally, fruit juice has been extracted from the whole fruit, leaving the end product devoid of fiber. It is critical to consume fruit sugar in the whole fruit form to avoid the same insulin spike that is caused by consuming refined sugars.

Kids should know that juice and packaged foods usually have sweeteners in them that can easily add up to a large serving of sugar. Talk to your child about making better choices like an apple with peanut butter or regular oatmeal sweetened with fruit and cinnamon. By helping kids to get rid of excess candy by doing a candy buy back in Lincoln, NE they will be less tempted to make unhealthy choices.

Can Eating Too Much Sugar Make Me Sick?

Ask your kids how they feel after they’ve eaten lots of sugary treats at a birthday party. How do they feel an hour later? It is a good idea to talk to your kids about whether this made them feel positive and cheerful or tired, grouchy and lethargic. Kids should understand the link these feelings have to the food they have eaten so they recognize how over-consuming sugar affects them. If you as a parent have health problems, it is a good idea to talk to your kids about what overeating sugar has done to your own health in the past or present. For example, does eating too much sugar make you feel lethargic and unable to exercise and stay active? Does it affect your mood?

Can Eating Sugar Make Me Fat?

Handle this subject with care when speaking to kids. It is a good idea to explain this in a way that demonstrates how eating too much food with a high sugar content can cause them to be less healthy. This can make it difficult for them to enjoy activities like playing at the park, running or climbing. It is best to avoid discussing the concept of being “fat” with young children, because this can cause negative perceptions of themselves and others. Discuss the subject of body image in terms of being strong and fit, being able to play and enjoy life. It is best to avoid creating the concept of “bad” foods versus “good” or “safe” foods.

Food is food, and is not inherently good or evil. It is helpful to discuss foods in terms of what is quality fuel for our body that makes us strong and what type of fuel is not.

Kids can feel like they are taking some initiative on their own health by doing a candy buy back in Lincoln, NE. Here they choose to trade candy for cash, reducing the amount of sugar they consume and earning extra money.

Top 10 Reasons Sugar is Bad

• It causes our bodies to become inflamed.
  Whenever we get sick from a cold, or get hurt on the playground, our body sends fighter cells in our blood to help us get better. This is a process called inflammation. It is one of the ways our body protects itself and keeps itself healthy. With lots of good food and vitamins, our body is able to fight off germs and help heal us faster. When we fuel our body with lots of sugar, it helps the germs grow and makes our body have to work even harder to fight them off. We stay sick longer when we eat too much sugar.
• Sugar makes it hard for us to keep our bodies at a healthy weight.
  Whenever we eat healthy foods, our brain tells us we are full after we eat enough food to fuel it. When we eat sugar, it stops our brain from telling us we are full, so we still feel hungry even though we already ate a lot of food with sugar. This makes it easy for our body to store the extra sugar that we have eaten on our body to use later, causing us to gain weight.
• There are no vitamins or minerals in sugar.
  The kind of sugar that comes from fruit (fructose) is not bad for us because the fruit has lots of vitamins and minerals and fiber which are all healthy fuels for our bodies and help us grow and stay healthy. When we eat added sugars, they have no vitamins or minerals that can help us in any way. Our body isn’t able to use added sugars to fuel us to play and grow and fight off germs. Instead, it stores the sugar in our body rather than using it to give us lots of energy like healthy foods.
• Sugar is addictive.
  Just like taking drugs, sugar makes our brain feel happy right after we eat it, and also gives us an instant “sugar high.” We think the sugar has given us energy, but this energy doesn’t last long. The good feeling our brain gets from eating sugar makes us addicted to the sugar.  This leaves us wanting to eat more and more of it.
  
• It causes cavities.
  Sugar feeds the bacteria that live in our mouths. The bacteria make our mouth a very acidic place. Thus, creating a perfect place and soft spots for the bacteria to get inside the tooth and make a cavity.
• Too much sugar can cause liver disease.
  Just like when people drink too much alcohol it causes liver damage, eating too much sugar overloads the liver. When the liver can’t process the sugar, it causes the liver to turn the sugar into fat. The liver becomes fatty just like how a person who drinks too much alcohol gets liver disease. When this happens, it makes us very sick.
• Sugar feeds cancer.
  Sugar can actually help cancer cells to grow. Cancer cells that are already in our body but not harmful to us begin to grow and spread very quickly if we eat too much sugar.
• Sugar causes our brains to age faster.
  Having high levels of sugar in our blood has been linked to premature aging of the brain.
• Sugar causes cravings.
  Whenever we eat sugar, our insulin levels spike, and our body tries to balance the insulin level. The liver stores the sugar as fat when insulin is released. This process lowers your blood sugar quickly, making you feel hungry for more sugar. So you eat again, and stay stuck in this vicious cycle of sugar cravings.
• Sugar affects your mood. Eating too much sugar can make kids feel cranky and is linked to ADHD, anxiety, headaches and behavioral problems.

It can be very difficult to avoid sugar completely, so the key is moderation. The less we eat it, the more we will enjoy it when we do. With Halloween just around the corner, remember to save a few pieces back that you can have a “treat.” As for the rest, let us help you put money in the bank! Participate in our program called Halloween candy buy back in Lincoln, NE.

From all of us to anyone affected by breast cancer or any other cancer 

 Dental care and cancer tips.

Dental Care and Cancer:
Dental Care during chemotherapy.
Dental care and cancer, what should you know?

In the recent article Periodontal Disease and Breast Cancer– Response, researchers have studied the connection between dental health and the risk of developing breast cancer. Dental care during cancer is important. If you or someone you know needs more information regarding various forms of cancer, visit the American Cancer Society.

Research has shown that there is a link between gum disease and breast cancer.  Low levels of vitamin D tend to be associated with a higher level of chronic inflammation as discussed in the above article. Ultimately, leading to developing periodontal disease and even breast cancer.  

Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in women. It is known that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. So, on average, this equates to a woman being diagnosed every 2 minutes. Can women prevent developing breast cancer? Science and medical doctors recommend living an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. This lifestyle can help decrease the chances of developing autoimmune conditions. In addition, it can also prevent chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation can eventually lead to developing periodontal disease and breast cancer. 

To learn more about living an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, use the provided link: https://nebraskafamilydentistry.com/anti-inflammatory-lifestyle/

What if someone is unfortunate enough to develop breast cancer in spite of living a healthy lifestyle?

Breast cancer treatment does have complications. Complications are typically on overall health and dental health. Oral health complications are those that are experienced as a result of treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. You can manage and even prevent some significant oral health problems with the proper care. Coordinating dental care during chemotherapy (or any cancer treatment) with your oncologist, is critical. Creating a team of physicians not limited to, but including your oncologist and dentist, can greatly optimize the effects of treatment. 

How to approach Dental Care and Cancer…What forms of treatment can affect oral health?

Any form of treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or even stem cell transplants can affect oral health. Other natural and homeopathic treatments can also cause oral health side effects. As our body begins to lose bone, we also start to lose bone in our mouths. Our teeth sit in bone and if the level is decreased, loose teeth or even tooth loss, can occur. If you or a loved one are going through cancer treatment, it is important to ensure the health of your gums.  Be sure to see our caring family dentists in Lincoln, NE.

Dental Care and Cancer…what are some common side effects that cancer treatment can cause? 

Dental care and cancer treatment do go hand in hand. Symptoms, or side effects, that you are experiencing can and should be discussed with your Lincoln, NE dentist for cancer. Your dentist is educated about many side effects including difficulty swallowing, cavities, dry mouth, candida (oral thrush or yeast infections), just to name a few. Visiting with your dentist will prove beneficial, both short and long-term. It is known that dental care during chemotherapy is vital.

Always be sure to involve your Lincoln, NE dentist in your cancer treatment plan. As previously mentioned, coordinating care is essential. Once your immune system becomes compromised, your body will not have the ability to heal itself as well as it did before undergoing treatment. After you have a calculated treatment plan laid out by your oncologist, discuss your dental concerns and treatment needed, with your dentist. Should you decide to proceed with receiving dental treatment during chemotherapy (or any cancer treatment), be sure to schedule carefully. Allow yourself time to heal after any procedures and before beginning treatment. Be sure to relay any dental concerns and or pending dental treatment to your oncologist. He or she needs to be aware that the mouth is impacted by treatment. Your oncologist may also have recommendations regarding oral health. They are very familiar with various types of treatment and potential side effects. Since they are familiar with many forms of treatment, it is possible they have seen specific side effects. Therefore, they can help address an issue before it becomes a major concern. Your oncologist and your Lincoln, NE dentist for cancer want to make any fight against cancer as easy as possible.

Check out the
“Cancer Therapy: Managing side effects of mouth sores”
by clicking the picture above.

Dental Care and Cancer, Receiving Dental care during chemotherapy is important. ALWAYS Ask Questions!

Below are some commonly asked questions about dental care during chemotherapy. 

Go the extra mile and ask questions. Get specific details about dental care during chemotherapy. All questions asked of your Lincoln, NE dentist for cancer and your oncologist are entirely valid. Simple questions such as whether or not it is safe to floss to what may be potential long-term side effects, are all important. Getting answers will not only help you while receiving treatment, but after treatment as well. If you are in need of dental care during chemotherapy, visit our team of caring family dentists. Don’t be shy and find out why dental care and cancer treatment go together. You’ve got this, don’t let cancer be the boss!