How well are your patients?

Although the greeting ‘How do you do?’ has largely been superseded by a brief ‘Hi’ in society in general, healthcare professionals first enquiry should still reflect concern for their patient’s health.

Oral symptoms can often indicate systemic health issues. The 2013 Standards for the Dental Team and the current Dental Contract Reform Programme both call for a ‘holistic and preventative approach.’[1]^,[2]

 Gingivitis and periodontal disease can influence, or be affected by, many other conditions, including xerostomia or thrush. Type 2 diabetes sufferers are about 3x more likely to develop dental problems, and the risk is also increased for those with Type 1.^[3]

Responses from a  2011 study showed that of 229 diabetics who completed a questionnaire, only 15.3% flossed daily and a startling 69.1 % had not be given oral health advice relating to diabetes^[4]. More than half supported the idea that dentists could offer screening for diabetes.

Despite recent research^[5] by the British Heart Foundation refuting a direct relationship between ‘poor oral health and cardiovascular disease,’^[6] researchers at the University of Bristol and the RSCI found that when the oral bacteria streptococcus gordonii enters the bloodstream, it can cause clots and give rise to growths on heart valves.^[7]

Other common factors predispose heart disease and oral ill health. Smoking can cause gingivitis and mouth cancer, and with  1,900 people dying annually from this cancer in the UK^[8], the GDC now includes ‘Oral Cancer: Improving Early Detection’ as a recommended CPD topic.

Patients diagnosed with oral cancer should receive ‘urgent dental care before treatment’^[9] as the drugs used in chemotherapy can affect the mouth lining, with the potential for soreness, ulceration and mouth infections. Helping patients ensure their mouth is in good condition before and after treatment should include advice on oral products to reduce ulceration and soreness etc.^[10]

Sufferers from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as their carers, may also need help, reminders or advice on oral health matters.  More specifically, a recent study has identified a possible connection between the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis, which is commonly linked to periodontal disease.^[11]

 It’s evident that all dental professionals have an ongoing responsibility to all their patients to be vigilant in detecting possible systemic symptoms and offering appropriate advice on oral healthcare products and protocols. 

Curaprox offers Curasept ADS® mouthwash for gingivitis, SLS-free toothpaste to help avoid soreness of the gingiva, and the CS 5460 ultra soft toothbrush to prevent damage to the oral cavity. Pharmacist patient Miss Chow reported, “After chemotherapy last year, my gums became very sensitive. I’ve had no problem with the CS5460 however, as it is very soft and comfy on the gums and massages properly; the small head reaches all of my mouth. I really enjoy using it!”

The whole dental team should hope to hear the smiling answer, ‘Very well thank you’ to every ‘How do you do?’ question! 

For more information call 01480 862084, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 or visit www.curaprox.co.uk