I find that my biggest challenge as a
dentist has also been the greatest opportunity for me to grow as a
professional and individual. Because dental disease is in most cases
painless, many patients seek care only when they have pain. By then, the
condition is usually serious and non reversible, for which only
definitive treatment is the answer.
As I enter my third decade of
providing health care to my patients, I still believe that it's
critically important to educate my patients about the importance of
preventive care and educating and inspiring them to adopt a culture of
wellness instead of just treating disease.
That
takes time and a relationship of trust. The benefits, however, far
outweigh the time it takes to create this trusting relationship. When I
see a patient come in with bleeding gums and broken down teeth, it
becomes a personal mission to not just 'fix' them but also teach them
how to prevent such situations. Knowing what I do about the oral
systemic link, I can't afford to be lax about stressing the importance
of regular dental visits, the role of proper diet and healthy
nutritional habits, exercise, awareness of susceptibility to dental
disease and prevention of inflammation in the body. As your dentist, I
am at a tremendous advantage to be able to help you understand these
links and not only treat cavities and periodontal disease but screen for
oral and head and neck cancer, sleep apnea and snoring and reduce the
inflammatory burden on your immune system, thereby reducing your risk of
getting many diseases.
So at 229 Charles Street, our entire team takes educating our patients as an extremely important job.
Lack
of urgency to seek dental care due to the painless nature of dental
disease is only one of the barriers that patients face when it comes to
making regular dental appointments. Many times it is serious financial
constraints, lack of awareness of the importance of oral health, limited
availability of dental services, etc.
But
after many years of practicing, I have now identified another major
factor. A misunderstanding of what Self love and self care really means.
I recognize this as a philosophical factor but see the negative effects
of a patients belief that self love is selfish love. Nothing is further
from the truth.
'My turn will come
after the kids are done' 'I'm too old for Invisalign anyway' I just
don't have time to come in for an appointment for myself after I'm done
driving the kids places' 'My work is just crazy'
There
is an element of truth in all of these reasons to be challenged to find
time for ourselves. But just a small element. When we take care of
ourselves, we are able to function optimally for others.
Erich Fromm's book the 'Art Of Loving ' is one of my favorite books. It describes Self Love so eloquently.
At
our practice, we aim to go beyond educating and inspiring you but truly
seeing you for the unique individual that you are and encouraging you
to express your self love by taking care of your health.
Until next time,
Be well, Do well, Live well
