Dental Hygiene Coaching | Dental Practice Solutions

Oral Inflammation: A Journey Treating Disease to Total Health

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

March 11, 2024

In the realm of healthcare, the mouth often serves as a gateway to understanding the broader state of one’s overall health. The journey from oral inflammation to total health is not merely about treating dental diseases; it’s about recognizing the interconnectedness between oral health and systemic well-being. In recent years, the scientific community has unearthed compelling evidence linking oral inflammation to a myriad of systemic conditions, underscoring the importance of holistic approaches in healthcare.

Oral inflammation, often manifested as gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), can be insidious. It begins as a seemingly innocuous condition characterized by swollen, bleeding gums but can escalate into a serious health threat if left unchecked. What many fail to realize is that oral inflammation is not confined to the mouth; it can serve as a precursor to more severe systemic diseases.

Research has demonstrated a clear association between oral inflammation and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes. The mechanisms underlying this relationship are complex but primarily revolve around the inflammatory nature of gum disease. Chronic inflammation in the oral cavity can trigger systemic inflammation, setting the stage for the development or exacerbation of various health issues.

Addressing oral inflammation entails more than routine dental care; it requires a paradigm shift towards a comprehensive approach to health and wellness. Dentists are increasingly adopting a holistic mindset, recognizing the interconnectedness between oral health and overall well-being. This shift is reflected in the emergence of integrative dental practices that prioritize preventive care, patient education, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

At the forefront of this movement is the recognition that oral health is not an isolated concern but an integral component of systemic health. Dental professionals are now delving deeper into the root causes of oral inflammation, exploring factors such as diet, lifestyle, genetics, and systemic health conditions. By understanding the underlying drivers of inflammation, clinicians can tailor treatment plans that address the root cause rather than merely managing symptoms.

Central to the journey from treating disease to achieving total health is the concept of personalized medicine. No two individuals are alike, and as such, their healthcare needs vary. Personalized oral health care involves a thorough assessment of each patient’s unique risk factors, health goals, and genetic predispositions. Leveraging advances in technology and diagnostics, allows clinicians to develop targeted interventions that optimize oral and systemic health outcomes.

Prevention lies at the heart of holistic oral healthcare. Empowering patients with knowledge and tools to maintain optimal oral hygiene and make informed lifestyle choices is paramount. From proper brushing and flossing techniques to mindful nutrition and stress management, patients play a proactive role in preserving their oral and systemic health.

In the pursuit of total health, collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential. Dentists, physicians, nutritionists, and other specialists must work together to address the multifaceted nature of health and disease. Integrated care models facilitate seamless communication and coordination, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive, evidence-based care that addresses their unique needs.

Beyond the confines of traditional healthcare settings, community engagement and education are instrumental in promoting oral health equity. Access to dental care remains a significant challenge for many underserved populations, exacerbating oral health disparities. By advocating for policies that prioritize preventive care and expand access to dental services, we can strive towards a future where oral health is a fundamental right for all.

In conclusion, the journey from treating oral inflammation to achieving total health is a multifaceted endeavor that transcends the boundaries of traditional healthcare. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of inflammation, prioritizes prevention, embraces personalized medicine, and fosters collaboration, we can pave the way towards a healthier future for individuals and communities alike. Through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we can harness the transformative power of oral health to enrich lives and elevate overall well-being.

As we embark on this journey, let us not forget that oral health is not merely the absence of disease but a cornerstone of vitality and vitality and total health.

Check out our 7-Day Hygiene Department training which includes a webinar about Biologic Dentistry.

LEARN MORE HERE.

The Smile Club: Enhanced Patient Care and Dental Practice Growth

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

February 27, 2024

Ensuring a healthy, beautiful smile is not just about routine dental hygiene appointments; it’s about fostering lasting relationships between patients and dental care providers. At Dental Practice Solutions, we’re committed to revolutionizing the way patients experience dental care through our innovative Smile Club patient loyalty program.

The Smile Club isn’t just another patient membership program but it’s a gateway to a comprehensive dental experience designed to benefit both patients and dental practices alike. Let’s delve into how The Smile Club can transform your dental practice into a thriving business and elevate your patient care.

Less Last-Minute Cancellations

Last-minute cancellations not only disrupt your schedule but also the efficiency of your dental practices. Implementing The Smile Club, less open holes in your schedule. Members ofThe Smile Club agree to 1. Pre-schedule their future hygiene appointments and, 2. They agree to call during business hours 72 hours in advance when they do need to change an appointment.

In return patients receive one free whitening pen at their routine hygiene appointment and a discount on all other whitening products they may buy.

This proactive approach not only reduces the occurrence of cancellations but also fosters a sense of accountability and mutual respect between patients and dental professionals. Your patients are most likely looking for a way to brighten their smile so why not accommodate this desire by offering teeth whitening products as an incentive.

More Hygiene Appointments Scheduled

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is paramount to preserving the health and appearance of your smile. Patients who become members of The Smile Club are prioritizing preventive care, which minimizes the need for invasive restorative procedures in the future.

Your patients enrolled in The Smile Club feel like a VIP. These are patients who feel loyalty to your dental practice. They are happy to be a part of your dental family. Happy patients remain patients for many years. Happy patients refer their friends and family to your office.

More Cosmetic Cases

Your patients’ smile is their signature, and as a provider of The Smile Club, you have an opportunity to understand your patient’s smile desires. A 1st step to helping your patients enroll in The Smile Club is having every new patient complete a Smile Evaluation. Every adult patient should also complete the Smile Evaluation annually.

Seldom does anyone see their dentist and they are asked, for example: “Mr. Jones, What is one thing you want to change about your smile?” Do you offer a smile evaluation to each patient so you understand their smile desire?

Usually, offices “think” they are too busy to “ask” patients what they would like their smile to look like.

Let’s flip this negative connotation of “My dentist always finds something!” or “It costs a lot of money every time I see my dentist!” into a positive experience where patients enjoy coming to your dental office.

“Let’s make dental appointments a pleasure not a pain!”

In addition to these tangible benefits, when your patients join The Smile Club they become part of a supportive community dedicated to promoting oral health and overall well-being. Your proactive approach gives patients a special feeling like you care about them as a person and not just a tooth or a way to make money! How many times do patients “think” doctor is funding their next vacation home or European vacation?!

Use The Smile Club as a way to help patients take control of their total health and embrace the transformative power of a beautiful smile.

At Dental Practice Solutions, we believe that every smile has the potential to light up the world.

Benefits of The Smile Club:

Grows New Patient Numbers
Builds Loyal Patients
Reduces Last-Minute Cancellations
BOOSTS Cosmetic Cases
Adds a 70k + Net Profit Annually (No additional patients or overhead!)
More Teeth Whitening Services Without the Chair time

*Let us show you how to grow your dental practice at least 70k this year without working more days, see more patients or increase your overhead!

Book a call today or inquire about The Smile Club.

Dental Hygiene Patient Reactivation Simplified

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

February 1, 2024

Reactivating patients is essential for building a thriving patient base and maintaining an effective hygiene program. A significant number of patients will inevitably lapse from their regular appointments, making it imperative to reactivate them for preventive care.

Dental Practice Solutions has worked with dental offices for over 20 years to get patients back on their schedule. The *Smile Club strategy has equipped thousands of dental offices with a cost-effective strategy to acquire new patients and re-engage patients who are overdue for their hygiene appointments or inactive.

Reactivating unscheduled hygiene patients is akin to acquiring new patients, and sometimes even better, given their existing trust in your dental practice.

Reactivation efforts often face hurdles:

Only 10% of emails receive attention.
Postcards often end up discarded.
People tend to ignore calls from unfamiliar numbers.

How can you effectively reconnect with unscheduled patients?

How can you prompt patients to respond to your emails, answer your calls, or engage with text messsage you send?

One Tip:

Utilize text messaging (SMS) automation, also known as “digital reactivation,” to reach hundreds or thousands of patients with the push of a button on your computer patient engagement software.

It’s a fact that over 90% of adults keep their mobile phones nearby at all times, and 98% of text messages reach their intended recipients. Moreover, 90% of these messages are read within three minutes of receipt.

Digital reactivation complements your existing reactivation methods. Integrate text messaging into your patient reactivation strategy.

If you don’t have a reactivation program yet, consider joining one of our monthly Power Hours which you can attend virtually by registering and using a ZOOM link. (see below information to get the registration link). By adopting the reactivation program we created many years ago called *The Smile Club and incorporating digital reactivation tips, you will yield positive outcomes. Less patients go MIA.

Many dental practices leveraging digital reactivation and *The Smile Club system have welcomed back up to 90 patients per month through this proven system. Set a goal to reactivate at least 20 overdue hygiene patients each week.

Simple and effective tips for digital reactivation.

Use HIPAA Compliant Software:

For digital reactivation, opt for a HIPAA compliant software separate from your dental and two-way texting platforms.

Craft Offers and Text Messages:

Experiment with different campaigns and messages to gauge effectiveness. Offer incentives and create urgency to prompt action.
*The Smile Club (patient incentive system) has proven for many years to be beneficial in reactivating overdue hygiene patients.
*Read below to find out more about The Smile Club

Personalize Your Message:

Personalize messages with the patient’s name and include your practice name. Choose a sender (A real person’s name): a team member, hygienist, or the doctor- owner, to enhance engagement and track your responses to messages you send.

Implementation:

Designate someone within your dental practice to oversee hygiene patient reactivation. This means your patients are more likely to be scheduled for future hygiene appointments.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your reactivation process and foster patient retention.

Book a call to learn more about *The Smile Club and patient reactivation. *The Smile Club also grows new patient numbers and grows cosmetic case acceptance.

Call us to learn more: 623-252-1941. Or drop us a quick note.

Explore methods for attracting and retaining high-quality patients. Consider attending one of our Power Hours each month.

Grab a free resource and you will be on our list to be notified when we have our next Power Hour.

Click and Grab a Resource Here.

*The Smile Club. Would you like to learn more about our Patient Rewards, Reactivation System using The Smile Club? Book a quick call and we will show you how it works.

Your Dental Hygiene Department Profit Formula: Six Guiding Principles

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

January 17, 2024

A streamlined dental hygiene department with strategic systems plays a pivotal role in driving practice production; however, many practices fall short of harnessing the full potential of their hygiene department.

In a typical day, a hygienist may treat seven or eight patients, offering essential services like prophylaxis and radiographs. While this is a common practice, it doesn’t fully leverage the hygiene department to deliver comprehensive, and periodontal care, as well as drive patients to schedule for cosmetic dentistry. In today’s economic landscape, optimizing all resources, including the hygiene department, is crucial for a dental practice.

When over 60% of Americans age 35 or older have some level of gum disease it’s imperative to treat this starting with non-surgical periodontal therapy and even use the ADA gingivitis code provided for early intervention of disease.

Continuing reading this to elevate your hygiene department by learning about The Profit Formula and 6 guiding principles.

The Profit Formula

The Profit Formula is an innovative approach created by Dental Practice Solutions and designed to elevate dental hygiene productivity, aiming to unlock the true production potential of hygienists, elevate clinical care, and generate increased production for the hygiene department.1

Implementing The Profit Formula has demonstrated the capability to boost annual hygiene production by over $100,000 per hygienist, a proven success in numerous practices and adaptable to various settings. Explore six key principles of The Profit Formula to revolutionize dental hygiene productivity, enhance overall practice production and elevate patient care.

2. Future Hygiene Appointments

During the initial discovery phase, when working with clients, Dental Practice Solutions usually discovers practices usually have fewer than 80% of active patients scheduled for a next appointment. If patients aren’t scheduled, you can’t provide them optimal oral health care.

Plan a goal of 90% pre-scheduled hygiene appointments. Every patient (Preventive care and restorative) will leave with a next appointment. This means all patients of record (Even edentulous patients. Another topic, another day!) will have a pre-scheduled hygiene appointment.

Most hygiene patients receive basic hygiene care (cleanings/”Preventive Care Appointment”) and are assessed for any obvious dental needs and/or abnormalities. For a dental practice to reach their hygiene profit potential, hygienists need to understand how to deliver treatment needs to patients that puts the patient in the driver’s seat, ultimately allowing the patient to “take ownership of their disease.”

It’s imperative that we never allow insurance benefits (or lack of a benefit) dictate our treatment plan!

The hygiene department should be a major profit center for a dental practice., This can only occur when patients are routinely scheduled for dental hygiene appointments.

3. Promote Comprehensive Dentistry

There are different strategies and systems for the hygiene department to drive comprehensive, periodontal and cosmetic dental services. In most offices, this is not happening. One reason is that the dentist is so busy with restorative patients that the hygiene appointment is more of an interruption than anything else.

Some dentists may not take the time to complete a six month periodic exam and many offices have not learned a way to streamline the hygiene-patient-doctor exam to optimize case acceptance. Many offices think that they only time a patient will receive a comprehensive exam is when they are a new patient.

Not true!

Using The Profit Formula (Taught by Dental Practice Solutions) the dental hygienist will do a complete evaluation (hygienists are not legally allowed to diagnosis in most states) of the patients’ oral condition. Once hygienists become educated to find all potential hygiene need-based and elective (cosmetic and adjunctive) treatment opportunities, the entire outcome of the hygiene – preventive care appointments is elevated and you experience a more productive dental practice. This is how your hygiene department will drive productivity for the entire dental practice.

Using The Profit Formula the dental hygienist will use the oral evaluation to introduce discussions about comprehensive care, cosmetic dentistry and of course non-surgical periodontal care. The dental hygienist will initiate (discuss, introduce) the services while (in most states legally) the dentist will make the final diagnosis.

The hygienist is there as a patient-advocate and mini-associate to the dentist. This supports case acceptance and saves time during the hygiene patient exam.

This outcome is the reason why the hygiene department is very important to the dental practice. It’s the main blood vessel or the mitochondria of the dental practice. The hygiene department should operate like a powerhouse cell!

4. Build Strong Patient Relationships

The Profit Formula has a process that includes learning specific information about each patient, building patient rapport, understanding the patients values and their smile desires. Each hygiene appointment represents an opportunity to build a stronger relationship with the patient. It provides an opportunity to do more than treat a tooth.

Patients enjoy coming to a dental office where they feel valued and appreciated. This is part of the 5-star patient experience and one simple way to organically grow your dental practice.

A strong focus on the smile evaluation can be an effective way to learn what your patient desires for their smile. This takes away the dental clinicians always “finding” something in the patient’s mouth. It puts patients in the driver’s seat where they tell the office and dentist what they want. Provide a simple way for patients to whiten their teeth. The Smile Club is great way to save time and build your cosmetic cases this year.2

5. Enhanced Hygiene-Patient-Doctor-Exams

Dentists need to stop thinking of the hygiene patient exams as an interruption, and stop putting off this important exam. During a 10-minute team huddle the team should learn which hygiene patients need a doctor exam. The dental assistants will make note of this and be aware of a time when the doctor can more easily break-away from their patient to complete the hygiene patient exam.

When utilizing The Profit Formula hygienists will prepare the patient for any potential treatment needs which saves the doctor time during that hygiene patient exam. The hygiene patient exam should not take longer than 5-7 minutes. If the patient needs a comprehensive exam, this must be scheduled in another operatory and for 20 minutes of time with the doctor. The timing and strategy of this comprehensive exam must be completed at the time the patients hygiene appointment is scheduled.

6. Hygiene Department Production

Many hygienists think of hygiene production as “cleaning teeth,” bite-wings, FMX and panoramic radiographs. Today’s dental hygiene appointment includes “preventive care” including various adjunctive services such as laser bacterial reduction (LBR), fluoride varnish, Perio Protect Trays, Arestin, sealants, etc, etc.

A pain-point for many employees is knowing that the doctor-practice owner, has production goals. Let’s flip this negative thought process into a positive one. We must all think of production goals and meeting the practice production goals as “job security.”

When a large majority of Americans age 35 and older have some level of gum disease the hygiene production should not be difficult to reach three times the hygienists salary. The twenty-first century dental hygienist has a lot of exciting adjunctive services to implement that elevate patient care! Patients WILL pay for these adjunctive services when we share about the value and benefits they offer.

Since the 2020 pandemic, dental hygienists demand more money per hour when working as a dental hygienist in the dental office so it becomes imperative that dental hygienists are aware of their productivity and not JUST clean teeth.

Doctors must look at their practice numbers and end-of-day reports. The Profit Formula taught by Dental Practice Solutions, brings profit to the forefront of the dental practice, in a way that makes looking at the practice metrics and daily opportunities fun for all!.

Numbers tell a story and when the team looks at production goals in a positive light, accomplishing the goals as a team can be fun. When we accomplish the practice goals now we can talk about bonuses, salary raises, and fun team events!

Conclusion

The dental hygiene department is one of the best opportunities in a dental practice to increase overall practice production and elevate patient care, especially in today’s economy. The Profit Formula created by Dental Practice Solutions, will immediately set your practice on a growth path as well as, create more value for your patients.

Hygienists following The Profit Formula protocol receive higher patient satisfaction reviews than those who simply see patients for “just a cleaning” and basic preventive care services. Dentistry is constantly changing. Hygiene department adjunctive services are a fun and exciting way to practice dentistry as a dental hygienist in 2024.

These 6 principles discussed serve as guide to reframe your hygiene department and take your practice to the next level.

When you’re ready to optimize your hygiene department, implement The Profit Formula, and elevate your patient care, consider a quick call to learn more about Dental Practice Solutions hygiene department coaching program Hygiene Department MAX Revenue (a hybrid of online and personalized coaching) here.

References.

The Profit Formula. Book a call and ask us about the Profit Formula taught by Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS, Founder of Dental Practice Solutions. *Currently taught in all of our coaching programs.
Ask us about The Smile Club and see your cosmetic cases grow. We will show you how to also have more new patient phone calls and reduce last-minute cancellations. Book a quick time to chat and learn. When you book a call we will mail you a SMILE CLUB whitening kit with the LED Blue and Red Lights (Similar nano watts as the ZOOM in-office light). There is no chair time to use this system. BOOK HERE —https://calendly.com/debbie-111/caseacceptance

The Mouth-Body Connection: Gum Disease, and Overall Health

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

December 11, 2023

When you think about overall health, high blood pressure, heart attack, Alzheimer’s disease, etc, many patients consider that gum disease is worlds apart from these other systemic diseases.

How many patients sit in your dental chair each day, week or month, and have underlying health conditions that may be associated with gum disease?

Dental hygienists do not “clean teeth”, we identify abnormalities and put a halt to the disease process. Our professional goal should be to provide patients with optimal oral health. Dental hygienists have a perfect opportunity to empower patients with information that will positively impact their overall health.

Today, let’s explore the intricate relationship between high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease, etc, etc, which are associated with gum disease, while shedding light on the journey towards a longer-healthier life.

Connecting the Dots. Inflammatory Markers:

As we dive into this topic, let’s start with the basics. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, isn’t just a local issue affecting the teeth and gums, it’s a dynamic process involving inflammation that extends beyond the oral cavity. It will impact the entire body if there is no end to the inflammation.

Research has uncovered a strong link between gum disease and systemic conditions like high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, crohn’s disease, Parkinsons and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Inflammatory markers, substances that increase during inflammation, play a crucial role in systemic disease. When a patient has gum disease, these inflammatory markers enter the bloodstream through the mouth, triggering a cascade of reactions throughout the body. High blood pressure is only one of the systemic consequences, highlighting the importance of addressing oral health as an integral part of overall wellness.

Understanding the Domino Effect:

Imagine your body as a finely tuned instrument, with each note influencing the others. When gum disease enters the picture, it’s like a rogue element disrupting what once was a harmonious environment.

Inflammatory markers contribute to the development of arterial plaque, narrowing blood vessels and making your heart work harder to pump blood. This increased strain can elevate your blood pressure, setting the stage for cardiovascular problems and other systemic issues. This is only one example of what happens with inflammatory markers invade our body.

Now, the question arises: How can addressing gum disease impact this domino effect and potentially improve your overall health?

The Empowering Journey: Treatment and Prevention:

Here’s the good news: As dental hygienists, and dental professionals, we have the power to interrupt this cascade of events. Treating gum disease involves a multi-faceted approach that not only revitalizes your oral health but also contributes to a healthier you.

Professional Dental Hygiene Appointments. Guided biofilm therapy, scaling, root planing, soft-tissue diode laser, etc:

The foundation for treatment of gum disease lies in removing the source of inflammation – the plaque and tartar/calculus buildup on the teeth. A professional hygienist delivered -preventive care appointment can target these inflammatory markers, providing a chance for the inflamed gingiva to heal.

Home Care:

Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is our superpower in the fight against gum disease. Brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic (non-alcohol) mouthwash support the frontline defense against plaque, and bacteria, preventing its return between dental visits.

This superpower also requires routine preventive care by a dental hygienist.

Lifestyle Changes:

The overall health journey isn’t just confined to the dental chair. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle – incorporating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management – complements the efforts we make in the dental office.

Dental hygienists must know the basics to support proper nutrition and supplementation with their patients.

Inspiring a Desire for Wellness:

Now that we’ve unraveled the connection between high blood pressure, various systemic diseases, gum disease, and outlined the path to recovery, let’s shift our focus to why we want to have our patients “want” what they need when there is an unhealthy oral condition such as gingival inflammation: gingivitis or periodontitis.

Consider this: by motivating our patients to take charge of their oral health, we are not just helping them prevent tooth loss or malodor but we are actively contributing to our patients overall well-being, reducing the risk of systemic diseases, and helping them to live a longer and healthier life.

The journey towards creating healthier patients (and populations around the world) is not just a necessity; it’s an opportunity for dental hygienists to empower their patients and level-up their patients’ self-care routine.

Conclusion:

In the chair of each dental hygienist lies a unique space where oral health and overall wellness intersect. Understanding the connection between high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, Crohn’s disease, Alzheimers, gum disease, and inflammatory markers equips patients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their total health.

As we embark on this journey to empower our patients to make the best decisions, let’s remember that treating gum disease isn’t just about preserving our patients smile; it’s about safeguarding the heart, blood vessels, and our patients overall vitality.

Let’s embrace the journey, let’s work together as a team of dental professionals to help conquer this disease process.

Let’s create healthier and happier patients. Dental hygienists no longer CLEAN teeth! We are in the business and profession of creating healthier, longer lives.

Do you wish your entire team knew how to educate your patients about total health?
Do you wish your dental hygiene department was more profitable?
Does your team know how to effectively communicate this message about optimal health and living a longer, healthier life?

If you want to level-up your hygiene department, book a quick hygiene department discovery call. Debbie will share with you where you have the “Low-Hanging” fruit– the easiest way to tap into more productivity. On the call Debbie will share the hygiene department training if you are interested in group hygiene department coaching.

The next cohort begins February 6 and ends May 5, 2024. If you join in December 2023, or January 2024, you begin 1:1 with Debbie and your team asap. The tuition will be the same as it is for the 3-month program. You receive a huge bonus when you raise your hand to be a part of this training now.

There will only be 10 offices accepted in this next cohort so don’t delay applying today!

BOOK YOUR HYGIENE CALL HERE.

The Dental Hygienists Role in Boosting Case Acceptance

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

November 14, 2023

In the world of dentistry, case acceptance is not just about presenting treatment options and persuading patients to say “yes.” It’s a multifaceted process that involves building strong relationships with patients and providing a personalized experience that resonates.

A crucial player in this dynamic is the dental hygienist. What happens during the hygiene appointment sets the stage for patients to accept care and keep returning to their dental office.

In this blog, we’ll explore how hygienists contribute to case acceptance and why building strong patient relationships is pivotal for any dental practice’s success.

Understanding the Dental Hygienist’s Role

Dental hygienists are often the unsung heroes of the dental office. While their primary responsibility is to perform routine preventive care their role extends far beyond that. A skilled and empathetic hygienist can make a world of difference in a patient’s experience, setting the stage for trust, case acceptance, and long-term patient loyalty.

Trust and Comfort: Patients often find dental appointments to be anxiety-inducing. Hygienists have the unique ability to put patients at ease. They can create a comfortable environment by explaining procedures, addressing concerns, and offering reassurance. When patients feel comfortable, they are more likely to trust the entire dental team, including the dentist, and consider recommended treatments.
Educators and Advisors: Hygienists are well-versed in oral health and hygiene. During their appointments, they can educate patients about the importance of proper dental care and hygiene practices. By offering personalized tips and advice, they not only help patients maintain good oral health but also prepare them for necessary oral care needs, making them more receptive to the dentist’s recommendations.
Early Detection and Prevention: Hygienists play a critical role in early detection of oral disease and abnormalities. Through routine visual examinations, they can identify problems in their early stages, such as gum disease or a hole in the patients tooth. When patients understand that their hygienist is actively looking out for their best interest, they are more likely to appreciate the value of preventive care and want to pay for what they need.
Building Relationships: Dental hygienists see patients regularly, which provides ample opportunities to build strong relationships. They can get to know their patients on a personal level, remember their patients preferences, and inquire about their well-being. These small acts of caring create a sense of belonging and trust that extends beyond the dental chair.

Personalized Patient Experience

One of the key elements of consultative selling in dentistry is offering a personalized patient experience. Hygienists excel at this because they (should) have undivided quality time and the patient’s undivided attention during their hygiene appointments.

Listening and Empathy: Hygienists listen to patients’ concerns and fears. They empathize with their patients discomfort and ensure that the treatment experience is as painless and stress-free as possible. When patients feel heard and valued, they are more likely to trust the entire dental team.
Tailored Recommendations: Building relationships allows dental hygienists to understand their patients’ unique needs and concerns. This insight enables them to tailor their treatment recommendations to align with the patient’s goals and preferences. When patients perceive that the treatment plan is designed specifically for them, they are more inclined to accept it.

Benefits of Focusing on Relationships

The benefits of focusing on building relationships through consultative selling are clear:

Increased Case Acceptance: When patients trust the dental team and feel that their needs are understood, they are most likely to accept the recommended and necessary dental care.
Increased Patient Satisfaction: A positive patient experience, characterized by trust, empathy, and personalization, leads to higher patient satisfaction and more referrals to friends and family.
Increased Practice Profitability: As case acceptance rates rise, so does practice profitability. Satisfied patients are more likely to return for their routine preventive care..

Bottom Line

Patients are more likely to trust your expertise when they feel heard, valued, and understood. Dental hygienists are instrumental in creating this environment of trust and empathy, which, in turn, paves the way for increased case acceptance and stronger patient relationships.

By recognizing the vital role dental hygienists play in patient care and fostering these relationships, dental practices will thrive and provide optimal care for their patients.

It’s important for patients to understand that the dental hygienist is doing more than just cleaning your teeth. Dental hygienists are setting the stage for a healthy and enduring patient-dentist relationship. We are in the business of helping our patients live a longer and healthier life!

What is your current percentage of case acceptance?
Does the hygienists set the stage for patients to accept the diagnosed treatment and even ask for cosmetic services outside of what doctor has treatment planned?

If your case acceptance is NOT 80% consider booking a no-cost call with Debbie!

Let’s get your dental practice set up for highest level of success in the next 12 months!

BOOK YOUR CALL HERE.

Transforming Dental Practices With A Dental Hygiene Department Consultant

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

November 6, 2023

Efficiency is the bedrock of a thriving dental practice. Dental hygiene department consultants, also known as dental practice management consultants, serve as vital assets in streamlining dental clinics’ operations, elevating patient care, and boosting overall productivity.

In this blog, we’ll explore the invaluable role of these consultants in reshaping dental practices for success.

Navigating the Dental Landscape with a Consultant’s Expertise

Dental practices are complex entities with various moving parts. Managing patient appointments, updating current hygiene services and technology, compliance with the dental hygiene process of care, sequencing and billing of specific dental hygiene treatment and delivering high-quality patient care are just a few of the many challenges that dental professionals face.

This is where dental hygiene department consultants step in with their specialized expertise.

Optimizing Operational Efficiency

One of the primary responsibilities of a dental hygiene department consultant is to optimize the hygiene patient appointment. Dental hygienists in today’s world do more than clean teeth.

How can dental hygienists do it all?! This is where a dental hygiene coach and consultant can become a valuable resource.

Dental hygiene department consultants assess the current workflow, identify bottlenecks, and propose strategies to streamline processes. This can lead to significant time and cost savings for the entire dental practice. Consultants may suggest improvements in appointment scheduling, hygienist- clinician – patient verbiage, and the adoption of various technologies to enhance efficiency. The hygiene department is your main artery to keep patients on the schedule and increase case acceptance.

Think of the dental hygienist as an associate to the dentist. They do a lot more than just clean teeth! The dental hygienist can and should drive productivity over to the doctors schedule. What happens during the dental hygiene appointment will make or break patients rescheduling and actually showing up for (at the very least) preventive care appointments.

Elevating Patient Care

Providing exceptional patient-centered care must be a cornerstone of every dental practice. An effective dental hygiene consultant works closely with the entire team to improve patient care protocols and ensures that each patient receives individualized, quality care.

It’s important the entire team knows what is happening in the hygiene department. Every team member must work in harmony. Just like an orchestra plays in harmony, the dental employees must all work well together; supporting one another.

Dental hygiene consultants provide training on the latest dental hygiene services, including clinical instrumentation, patient communication skills to improve case acceptance, and properly sequencing the various hygiene patient appointments. They should also be able to advise how to bill correctly for patient the hygiene services and they know what “should” and “must” be billed for private pay and insurance reimbursement.

By doing so, they help enhance the overall patient experience, leading to increased practice production, creating efficiencies, improving patient satisfaction and loyalty. You will also keep loyal employees a long time when you have a well-oiled system!

Boosting Team Morale and Productivity

A harmonious and motivated team is essential for a successful dental practice. Dental hygiene department consultants also focus on team dynamics and morale. They can provide guidance with team-building activities, and professional development opportunities. By fostering a positive work environment, consultants help improve employee retention rates and overall productivity. Think working smarter, not so hard. Hygiene consultants understand how to get more done with less time!

Navigating Regulatory Compliance

Staying abreast of ever-evolving healthcare regulations and compliance standards is a daunting task. Dental hygiene consultants are well-versed in the latest regulations for dental hygienists and help dental practices navigate this complex landscape. Their expertise ensures that the practice adheres to all legal requirements, minimizing the risk of regulatory violations and potential legal issues.

Implementing Technology Solutions

In today’s digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in the efficiency of dental practices. Consultants often recommend and help implement technology solutions, such as electronic health records (EHR) systems, supporting dental hygienists to use digital scanners and even the latest AI Dental Smile apps.

These technological advancements not only improve efficiency but also enhance data security and accuracy.

Measuring Success and Ongoing Support

Dental hygiene department consultants don’t just provide recommendations and disappear; they are committed to the long-term success of the dental practice. The best choice for a dental hygiene consultant is one who will measure the office (team members, hygiene department, appointments scheduled and cancelled, etc), performance through various metrics to measure the impact of their strategies and provide ongoing support and guidance to address emerging challenges.

The numbers do matter.

It’s important when hiring any consultant that you look at where you are today and evaluate your growth while you are working with the consultant. Numbers don’t change overnight but a well-thought out plan of action with the dentist- dental practice owner- and the hygiene department consultant will provide sustainable success.

Know that it’s what you commit to implementing day after day and month after month that will create a difference in your dental practice success.

In conclusion, dental hygiene department consultants are unsung heroes in the world of dental practice management. Their expertise in optimizing the dental hygiene department (and integrating the entire team during the process), elevating patient care, and ensuring compliance is invaluable for dental practices looking to thrive in today’s competitive healthcare landscape.

By harnessing the skills and guidance of the hygiene department consultant, dental practices will pave the way for a brighter and more efficient future.

Today is the best time to begin putting together your success strategy for 2024. How can we support your 2024 success strategy?

There is no one-size fits all!

Debbie Seidel Bittke, RDH, BS, founder and CEO of Dental Practice Solutions will host a group Dental Hygiene Department training starting Jan 3, 2024. This will run for 3 months during Q1 in 2024. Only 10 offices who will be accepted into the hygiene department training.

This training with 10 ONLY offices is by application only! Applications will be send out on November 20th. Book your Coffee Chat and if you are a fit, you will be admitted early (AND Pay Less money for the training when you are accepted early) into the dental hygiene dept training.

BOOK a coffee chat to find out more and discover if this is a fit for your dental practice.

Do you want to be considered?

If you don’t think a group coaching program is a good fit, plan to chat with Debbie a few minutes to discover what will work to optimize your dental hygiene department and achieve your highest potential in 2024! Now is the time.

BOOK a Coffee Chat HERE .

Take a few minutes to find out more.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Holistic Patient Care and Case Acceptance in the Dental Hygiene Department.

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

October 30, 2023

In the ever-evolving realm of dentistry, the dental hygiene department stands as a pivotal force in transforming patient care.

This blog delves into the transformative role of dental hygienists within the dental hygiene department, focusing on their contribution to enhancing case acceptance and overall patient well-being. Continue reading and explore how dental hygienists play a central role in providing holistic care, identifying conditions like sleep apnea, TMD, empowering patients with knowledge about the mouth-body connection, fostering a strong patient-clinician partnership.

Discover how these strategic measures are shaping a new paradigm in dentistry, ultimately driving higher case acceptance rates and improving the quality of patient care.

Our overarching message must be, “Optimal Oral Health Leads to a Longer, Healthier Life.”

From early identification of conditions like sleep apnea to empowering patients with knowledge about oral inflammation and how it plays a key role in their total health, the contributions of the dental hygiene department are shaping a new paradigm shift in our dental profession.

Continue reading about the transformative impact of the dental hygienist department to in enhance patient care, improve patients total health, and boost case acceptance.

Dental hygienists in the twenty first century no longer JUST clean teeth! They are a partner with their patients in the early detection and treatment of oral inflammation, offering patients a holistic approach to oral care. They are like a mini-associate to the dentist helping to increase case acceptance.

First Line of Defense: “Creating a Longer, Healthier Life:”

Dental hygienists often serve as the patients’ initial point of contact during dental appointments. Their unique position allows for close interaction with patients, enabling them to gather vital information and conduct preliminary assessments.

This initial interaction is crucial for identifying potential abnormalities such as sleep apnea, oral inflammation that causes gingivitis, and periodontitis, etc. Dental hygienists are often the 1st person to learn about a patient’s cosmetic dental concerns.

Through meaningful conversations and motivational interviewing 1, dental hygienists can collect valuable information about symptoms like snoring, daytime fatigue, breathing difficulties, bleeding gums, localized mild to generalized severe gingivitis, periodontitis and even soft and hard tissue abnormalities; all of these which affect numerous oral conditions affecting patients overall health.

Visual Examinations:

Dental hygienists possess the ability to conduct visual examinations of patients’ oral health, which is a distinctive advantage for the dentist. In the context of sleep apnea, telltale signs such as a narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, etc, can often be observed during these examinations.

Dental hygienists have a legal and ethical responsibility to annually complete a Comprehensive Periodontal Exam (CPE) 2.

Moreover, dental hygienists are skilled at identifying dental issues that could lead to cosmetic concerns, such as malalignment of teeth, stained enamel, or missing teeth. They also detect oral inflammation, which includes, gingivitis and periodontitis. By fostering a patient partnership, they boost case acceptance for necessary and adjunctive treatment.

The dental hygiene department must be the mitochondria that supports patients overall well being and supports adjunctive (restorative and cosmetic) dental care for the dentist’s schedule.

The Dental Professional-Patient Partnership:

Dental hygienists have a unique opportunity to establish a partnership with their patients by involving them in the initial examination process. Utilizing intraoral cameras, cutting-edge scanners like Adite 3 as well as the latest dental AI app (See resources below), PrestoSmile 4, dental hygienists become a partner with their patient to review their oral conditions in real-time.

These technologies help the patient make a wise decision about their oral cavity and total health. Before the doctor completes the hygiene exam, the patients have seen potential smile capabilities they may never have thought possible.

While the dental hygienist has the patient in their chair, as they take a tour of the patient’s mouth. Dental hygienists are in a position to empower patients to own their disease and want specific care and adjunctive cosmetic services.

This active involvement motivates patients to take ownership of their oral health, it leads to increased engagement and patient compliance.The end result is higher case acceptance and patient loyalty to their dental office.

These technological advancements available today make it easier for dental professionals to convey the importance of required treatments.

They seeing is believing and today’s world of dental technology combined with dental AI, will help get more patients to accept our care. This is one easy way to get patients to “yes” more easily to high-end dental care such as veneers, implants, crowns, bridges, etc.

Patient Education:

Dental hygienists, in the initial appointment, diagnose oral inflammation, discuss cosmetic dentistry, and identify sleep apnea and TMD risks. They clarify complex concepts, enhancing patient understanding before the dentist examines them.

Dental hygienists have a responsibility to inform patients about the potential risks of untreated conditions, including active disease such as gingivitis, periodontitis, broken teeth and occlusal wear. They can also discuss the aesthetic and functional benefits of various treatment options, aiding patients to make informed decisions.

This saves time for the dentist completing the hygiene patient exam. Imagine the dental hygienist and entire dental hygiene department as a mini-associate to the dentist. The dental hygiene department is the foundation to get patient to want what they need.

Seamless Transition of Hygiene Patient During Dental Exams:

Before the dentist arrives to complete the hygiene patient examination, dental hygienists have already laid a strong foundation about any oral abnormalities. At this point in the dental hygiene appointment the patient is well-informed about their oral health condition, potential concerns, and available treatment options.

This smooth transition ensures that the patient is prepared for a productive conversation with the doctor.

In this patient-doctor interaction, dental hygienists play a crucial role, providing information about the patient’s oral health, any medical changes, and the completion of oral abnormality screenings. They ensure that the dentist is aware of the patient’s concerns, the need for x-rays, unscheduled treatment, etc.

At this point in the dental hygiene appointment the patient has time to understand their oral condition and any future care needed. This takes away from the dentist spending a lot time during the exam to explain what is needed and how the procedure will be completed, etc.

Elevating Patient Consent and Compliance:

When patients have a clear understanding of their oral health conditions, they are more likely to accept the recommended care. This increased transparency significantly contributes to higher patient compliance rates, as patients recognize the importance of addressing sleep apnea, oral inflammation, and cosmetic dental concerns promptly.

Show patients what you see. Invite patient’s to participate in the discovery process and a plan for their total health.

Patient participation in the assessment and diagnosis process also enhances their commitment to treatment. Case acceptance will improve.

Holistic Patient-Centered Care:

The collaborative efforts of dental hygienists and dentists promote a patient-centered approach to overall wellness. Neglecting optimal oral health will affect a patient’s overall well-being. Addressing oral inflammation, cosmetic issues, airway abnormalities, and TMD enhances a patient’s quality of life and confidence.

The dental hygiene department and team are advancing dentistry through a patient-centered care with a holistic approach, providing comprehensive care beyond JUST cleaning teeth.

References.

Motivational interviewing. https://bit.ly/MotivationalInterviewRDH Accessed October 30. 2023.
Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation (CPE). https://bit.ly/CPECkList Accessed October 30. 2023.
Adite Intra Oral Scanner. https://bit.ly/DigitalScannerAdite Accessed October 30. 2023.
PrestoSmile. Dental AI app. https://www.prestosmile.com/sneekpeak Accessed October 30. 2023.

Please note the author of this blog and founder of Dental Practice Solutions, Debbie Seidel Bittke, RDH, BS, is NOT financially affiliated with any of the above links or companies mentioned.

Do you feel like you are drowning in a sea of patients? Do you see too many holes in your schedule? Do you see mostly Prophy patients and/or, do you wish your hygiene department could “Set up” their patients to accept more cosmetic dentistry?

If you said “Yes,” to one or all of the above questions, we have answers to help you optimize your hygiene department without working harder or increasing your overhead.

Consider a No-Cost Discovery Call. BOOK HERE

It’s 30 minutes of time and you will walk away knowing what your true potential is with a roadmap to quickly arrive where your true potential awaits you.

The Keys to a Successful Hygiene Patient Appointment: A Team Approach

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

October 9, 2023

A successful dental hygiene appointment is more than just a routine check-up; it’s the result of a well-coordinated effort that includes the patient, the dental hygienist, the dentist, and the entire team.

Each clinician plays a unique role, in ensuring that oral health concerns, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, etc, are effectively addressed.

This blog delves into the distinct contributions of each dental professional in your dental office, emphasizing the importance of their collaboration in fostering patient acceptance of care and maintaining optimal oral health.

Let’s make dental hygiene appointments patient-centered, enjoyable for the patients and the entire team.

Read on!

The Role of the Dental Hygienist:

The dental hygienist, often the first point of contact for patients, holds a crucial role in setting the tone for the hygiene appointment. We must begin by creating a comfortable environment, easing patient anxieties, and taking various oral and systemic health assessments. Initial rapport, at the beginning of dental appointments helps build trust between the patient and the dental team.

During the hygiene appointment, dental hygienists’ complete various assessments to identify the patient’s total health, identify areas of concern and any abnormalities.

Dental hygienists are preventive care specialists and not just a tooth cleaner! The main goal during dental hygiene appointments is to assess oral conditions and educate patients about the risks for oral inflammation. Our goal is to halt oral inflammation.

Our overarching message to patients should be, “Optimal oral health is key to helping you live a longer, healthier life.”

Dental hygienists must strive to provide a partnership with their patients. When we collaborate with patients rather than tell them what we find, we are more likely to have patients who “Take ownership of their disease” and “want what they need.”

Collaboration is key to case acceptance.

The Dentist’s Role:

Dentists play a pivotal role in the success of the hygiene patient appointment. During the hygiene patient exam, dental hygienists have a perfect opportunity to bring the doctor into the loop on exactly what has been discussed and what they have identified with the patient up to this point.

It’s helpful to provide positive feedback to the dentist during the hygiene exam; not always talking about “what’s wrong with the patient’s oral condition.” Remember to compliment patients when they have improved their oral health, positive outcomes, great oral health, etc.

When hygienists become a partner with the dentist during the hygiene patient exam, it’s much easier for the patient to accept all necessary dental care. The partnership between hygienist and dentist combined with patient collaboration, will create a higher level of case acceptance.

Since the hygienist has been looking around the patient’s mouth for the past thirty plus minutes, they have a great opportunity to support the patient in making the best decisions after dentist has made a diagnosis.

When the dentist arrives to complete the hygiene patient exam it is beneficial to have x-rays and intra-oral images available for the doctor to quickly review and confirm any diagnosis.

During the treatment planning phase of the hygiene appointment (See above image), hygienists must take time to review with their patient what they see happening in the patient’s oral cavity. This is where the patient and hygienist collaboration begin. This makes case acceptance much easier for the patient.

“Seeing is believing!”

This treatment planning phase is vital for creating a positive response for patients to accept proper care. Refer to the above diagram for timing of the various phases during the hygiene preventive care appointment.

Dental Assistants Role:

Dental Assistants play an important role in supporting the hygiene appointment. Imagine the dental assistants as the air-traffic controllers in a dental office.

There is no need for a dentist to wait until the end of a hygiene appointment to complete the hygiene patient exam. About half-way through a dental hygiene appointment, the hygienist should have completed the assessments and taken time to discuss treatment with the patient.

The dental assistants must be aware of which hygiene patients need an exam. While the dental assistants are with the dentist, and when they know the dentist can take a break from working on their patient, the dental assistant will request the dentist goes to the hygiene room and complete the hygiene patient exam.

*See the above Time Management image to support this process during hygiene preventive care appointments.

Examples of opportunities for doctor to complete a hygiene patient exam:

Waiting for local anesthesia
Waiting for an impression
Dental Assistants can scan the patient while doctor completes the hygiene patient exam
What else can you add to this list?

Since the hygienist has taken time to review any abnormal oral conditions (gingivitis, periodontitis, cracked or worn out fillings, crowns, abfractions, occlusal wear, etc, etc) and/or discussed unscheduled restorative care, the hygiene patient exam should not take longer than seven minutes.

Waiting until the end of a hygiene appointment can mean waiting for the dentist to take time away from their patient to complete the hygiene patient exam. Waiting for the doctor leaves the hygiene patient waiting and hygienists will run behind for their next patient.

Collaboration is key during the hygiene patient exam and therefore, hygienists play a valuable role in sharing with their doctor what has been discussed with the patient during the hygiene appointment.

Effective Communication:

During the hygiene patient exam, the hygienist will report on the following:

Personal updates, rapport
Medical history update
Oral abnormality (Soft and hard tissue screening)
Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation (Annual). 1
TMD: Occlusal wear, abractions, etc.
Sleep Apena (report on tonsils, tongue, lack of sleep, snoring, etc)
Restorative Unscheduled and any new cracks, leaky fillings, crowns and/or open margins
Gingival health, BOP, gingivitis, periodontitis, localized inflammation, etc.
What you have completed today: preventive care, polish, gingivitis, gross debridement, LBR (soft-tissue laser), fluoride treatment, etc.
When will the patient return? Example: 4-6 weeks re-evaluation for gingivitis or starting gum treatment ASAP, etc.

Every clinician must use the same words and phrases when speaking with the patient. Break down the words and phrases into words the patient can easily understand.

Use words that are descriptive such as: bleeding, infection, inflammation, hole in the tooth or discoloration, etc. Stop telling patients they will have their teeth cleaned. Dental hygiene appointments are about the prevention of disease not about cleaning teeth. 2

Collaboration Between Clinicians:

The synergy between the dental hygienist, the assistants, and the dentist, are vital in providing the patient with a well-rounded and effective treatment plan. Their collaboration allows for a thorough assessment and diagnosis, ensuring that no oral health issues are overlooked.

This teamwork fosters trust and confidence in the patient, knowing that their dental care is in capable hands. When the dental assistants guide the dentist through their day, it makes the day run more smoothly.

Consider a ten-minute team huddle before your day begins so all the clinicians know where they must be and when they must be there. The front office team should also know this information to prevent bottlenecks at the front office as well as who will need to make payment and other valuable information for a successful day.

The front office is also part of this collaboration.

Once the patient has completed their hygiene appointment it’s imperative for the patient to be personally walked up to the front desk.

If there is a hygiene assistant they can schedule the patients next hygiene appointment and walk them to the front desk where the hygiene assistant will share the important information about what occured during the patients appointment, if they have a next hygiene appointment and what they must be scheduled for if there is restorative treatment needed.

When there is a financial arrangement to be made the front office must have a private area to discuss flexible financial options, personal information.

Case Acceptance:

Clinicians must present a united front when discussing treatment and future appointments. Enthusiasm and expressing urgency when there is necessary care are very important pieces to case acceptance. When patients understand how well the team works together for their well-being, and how much their healthcare providers care about their total health, patients are more likely to comply with recommended treatment and maintain consistent preventive care.

Hygienists should know what type of care the dentist will most likely recommend for the patient and be able to discuss the various types of treatment; risks and benefits. If hygienists are not able to properly speak with patients about the type of treatment doctor completes such as implants, veneers, etc., it’s time to schedule an in-service with doctor and the hygienist(s) so everyone is on the same page.

You may want to consider bringing in an expert to help train the hygienists and the doctor so everyone can speak about optimal oral care options with patients. It is imperative that the entire team understands how to effectively communicate the types of dental services available.

There are experts who can guide doctors, hygienists, and the entire team so your dental practice achieves 75% or higher case acceptance each month.

Conclusion:

During a successful hygiene patient appointment, each clinician’s role is distinct and equally crucial. The dental hygienist’s skill treating disease, utilizing preventive care modalities and technology, communicating restorative and cosmetic care options, educating patients about optimal oral health benefits, coupled with the dentist’s expertise in diagnosis and treatment planning, creates a harmonious hygiene team.

This collaboration promotes higher case acceptance and contributes to maintaining the patient’s oral health. Optimal oral health will lead to a longer, healthier life.

By understanding the unique contributions of each clinician and working together as a cohesive unit, dental professionals can ensure that patients receive the highest level of care and support. This approach not only addresses immediate oral health concerns but also promotes a lifelong commitment to prevention of disease and overall well-being.

Do you want to learn about the un-tapped potential in your dental hygiene department?

I have a few open spots for a quick overview of your hygiene department.

Book your complimentary hygiene productivity call here.

References.

Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluation. https://tinyurl.com/23atrxm2 Accessed October 1, 2023.
Motivational Interviewing. https://tinyurl.com/yappeexh Accessed October 9, 2023.

Updates For Treating Oral Inflammation

By: Debbie Seidel-Bittke, RDH, BS

September 18, 2023

Periodontal disease, comprising gingivitis and periodontitis, is a common oral health issue affecting millions of people worldwide.1

As dental professionals, we play a vital role in managing and preventing this disease condition.

Our overarching reason for treating patients with oral inflammation, active gum disease, is because when we put a halt to oral inflammation and gingival diseases we can help our patients live a longer, healthier life.

This blog post will explore the latest research findings, treatment options, and effective prevention strategies for periodontal disease, including innovative approaches like Guided Biofilm Therapy and BioGaia ProBiotics.

This blog will also include sequencing of various appointments when treating oral inflammation.

Understanding Periodontal Disease:

Gum disease encompasses various conditions affecting the supporting tissues of the teeth, including gums, periodontal ligaments, and alveolar bone.

The two primary forms are:

Gingivitis:

Gingivitis, a milder form of gum disease, features inflamed, red, and bleeding gums and no alveolar bone loss.
Accumulation of dental plaque, a biofilm of bacteria, and is often the cause of early gum disease.
This early sign of gum disease can also be associated with various systemic diseases as outlined below.
Gingivitis is often reversible with regular dental hygiene preventive care appointments, and proper home care routines.

Periodontitis:

Periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease includes alveolar bone loss.
Often this begins with gingivitis and can be associated with other systemic diseases such as: diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, high cholesterol, various cancers, Crohns’ disease and even Alzheimer’s Disease.
The most common risk factor is tobacco use.
It involves more severe inflammation, gum recession, and radiographic bone loss.
Recent research suggests potential systemic health links, such as diabetes, stroke heart disease, etc. See the list of systemic diseases and research website link outlined below.

Latest Research on Periodontal Disease:

Recent studies have uncovered crucial insights into periodontal disease, offering a deeper understanding of its etiology, progression, and systemic connections:

- Microbiome and Dysbiosis: Research has highlighted the role of the oral microbiome in gum disease development. Understanding specific bacteria involved can inform targeted treatments.
- Inflammation and Systemic Health: Emerging evidence suggests the inflammation associated with periodontal disease may contribute to systemic health issues.
- Dental professionals must consider the systemic links to gingival diseases during patient assessments and share this important message to help patients “live a longer, healthier life with optimal oral health.”

Treatment Options for Oral Inflammation:

Dentists and dental hygienists employ various approaches to treat gingival and periodontal diseases, tailored to its severity such as:

Gingivitis Treatment: Indicated for patients with generalized moderate to severe inflammation in the absence of radiographic bone loss.

Scaling and Root Planing: Indicated for patients with radiographic bone loss, and moderate to severe gingival inflammation.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT): GBT focuses not only on prevention and maintenance of gingival, periodontal and peri-implant diseases in adults but is also the only proven protocol to manage biofilm around orthodontics and in non-surgical periodontal treatment. 2

This therapy utilizes an E.M.S. Electro Medical System.

1.Diode Laser:

Can reduce bacterial load without the side effects of antibiotics. There are clinical advantages for use of the diode laser therapy in the reduction of subgingival bacteria—the etiology of periodontitis. Evidence suggests that lasers can be bactericidal to subgingival pathogens. 3

2. Antibiotics: Dentists may prescribe antibiotics like doxycycline. Dental hyginists may use sub-dose microspheres of Arestin® (minocycline HCl), subgingivally, and/or antimicrobial mouth rinses during home care to manage inflammation and infection.

3. End-Point Therapy/Re-Evaluation:

Every patient who is treated for generalized moderate to severe inflammation, with or without radiographic bone loss will also have a follow-up appointment to re-evaluate the condition of this inflammation.

At the re-evaluation you will complete a comprehensive periodontal exam (CPE). This must include pocket depths, recession, bleeding, mucogingival involvement, furcations, etc.

You will use diode laser, ultrasonics, GBT, scale, polish (No need to polish when GBT is initiated), review of oral-systemic link & perio process ending with an update or continuation of homecare. When there is a halt of the disease process and no active gum disease is present you will determine the interval your patient will return for preventive care.

If your patient returns and active gum disease exists, you will refer to step 1 of this sequence of care.

For a gingivitis patient, you will refer the patient to their PCP for a full blood panel to rule out any systemic diseases; most common may be diabetes, high-cholesterol, or high blood pressure.

The patient will be scheduled to return for re-evaluation in 6 weeks and repeat the above listed protocol. See the above 1st step in treating gingivitis.

In the case of your periodontal patient, who returns with active disease, you will, 1. Re-treat these affected areas (see step 1 of the treatment plan) of active disease and according to each individual’s risk factors and perio status, you will refer to a periodontist for evaluation.

The purpose of this re-evaluation- (Purpose of an “end point” assessment is to be certain there is a halt of the gingival inflammation.

After therapy If we schedule a patient for three or six months without six weeks re-evaluation to check the “endpoint” of the disease, it’s possible that when the patient does return in three months of six months, active disease will progress to a more serious condition which will ultimately affect the patient’s total health and well-being. 4

End point therapy is considered the end of Phase I therapy.

Innovative Treatment Approaches:

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT):

GBT is a cutting-edge approach that uses advanced technology and devices to target and remove dental biofilm more effectively.
It utilizes air-polishing devices to dislodge biofilm from tooth surfaces and below the gumline, improving treatment outcomes.
This therapy is non-invasive, a great way to show patients where they are missing with their toothbrush and floss. You can also disclose to show acidic plaque, etc. Pain Free enamel-safe, plaque removal and a great way to inspire patients to “own their disease.”

Show patients what you see (Biofilm) because “seeing is believing!:”

BioGaia ProBiotics:

BioGaia ProBiotics are beneficial bacteria applied topically to the oral cavity to restore and maintain a healthy oral microbiome.
Research is ongoing, but preliminary studies suggest potential benefits in preventing and managing gum disease. 5

Effective Prevention Strategies:

Preventing periodontal disease is paramount, and as dental professionals we can guide patients using these preventive measures:

Oral Hygiene Education: Emphasize proper brushing, flossing, and the use of antimicrobial mouthwash.
Routine Dental Hygiene Appointments: Stress the importance of routine dental visits for professional preventive care and early detection of gum disease.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Educate and share information about tobacco cessation as necessary, maintain a balanced diet. Share information about systemic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and even Alzheimer’s Disease, which can exacerbate gum disease.

Conclusion:

Periodontal disease remains a significant oral health challenge, but ongoing research and evolving treatment modalities offer hope for improved patient outcomes. Dental professionals must stay informed about the latest developments to provide the best possible patient care.

Innovative approaches like Guided Biofilm Therapy and BioGaia ProBiotics show promise by enhancing treatment and prevention efforts. By working together, dental professionals and patients can effectively combat gum disease and our patients can live a longer, healthier life.

Our overarching message to patients is that optimal oral health leads to a longer-healthier life.

References.

Americans with Perio Disease. https://bit.ly/3PgUuI5 Accessed on September 15, 2015.
Guided Biofilm Therapy. https://www.ems-dental.com/en/guided-biofilm-therapy Accessed on September 18, 2023.
Effects of Diode Laser and mitochondria. https://bit.ly/LBRMitochondria Accessed September 18, 2023.
End Point Therapy. https://tinyurl.com/AAPEndPt See page 557. Accessed on September 18, 2023.
BioGaia ProBiotics. https://tinyurl.com/BIOGIA Accessed on September 18, 2023.

For more information about this consider a complimentary 30 minutes coaching session with Debbie Seidel Bittke, Founder and CEO of Dental Practice Solutions.

Click here to book your coaching session.