October is Dental Hygiene Month; time to understand the role oral health plays in overall well-being

By Brooke Jones
Gateway District Health Department

October is Dental Hygiene Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the critical role oral health plays in our overall well-being.

My journey in dental hygiene began with a simple desire to help others. I vividly recall a patient from the early days in my career who was terrified of dental visits. Through patience, education, and compassionate care, I helped her overcome her fears and adopt better oral hygiene practices. Watching her confidence grow with each appointment was incredibly rewarding and reinforced my commitment to this profession. Years later, she returned, now a young professional, to share how that experience had positively shaped her life. Hearing her story reminded me of the lasting impact we can have on our patients’ lives.

The significance of our work goes well beyond just cleaning teeth. Good oral hygiene can prevent serious health issues, including gum disease, heart disease, and diabetes. As dental hygienists, it’s our responsibility to educate patients about these vital connections. It’s not merely about brushing and flossing; it’s about empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being.

Yet, our journey is not without challenges. A significant hurdle we face is the pervasive fear and anxiety associated with dental visits. Overcoming this challenge demands empathy, education, and occasionally a bit of creativity—qualities that truly set dental hygienists apart. Additionally, ensuring access to dental care for underserved communities is crucial. Community outreach and education programs are essential in bridging this gap, providing resources and support to those who need it most.

Looking to the future, there are many exciting developments in dental hygiene. Advances in technology, such as teledentistry and enhanced diagnostic tools, are revolutionizing the way we provide care and educate our patients. Furthermore, there is a growing emphasis on preventive care and holistic health approaches, aligning seamlessly with the mission of dental hygiene.

Equally important are public health hygiene programs across the state that play a vital role in promoting oral health among children of Kentucky. Local health departments have been at the forefront of these initiatives, providing preventive oral services and education to underserved communities. Programs that offer free dental screenings, fluoride treatments, and sealants are crucial in combating dental decay and ensuring children develop healthy habits from a young age.

My career choice to become a Public Health Registered Dental Hygienist (PHRDH) was driven by a passion to make a difference in my community. I envisioned starting a program that would offer essential dental services without compromising existing dental benefits for children. By leveraging available resources, I aimed to ensure that all children, regardless of their ability to pay, receive the oral care they need. Our ultimate goal is to establish these children in “brick-and-mortar” dental homes with local dentists, ensuring they receive regular care and maintain their oral health over time.

Through outreach efforts, we can improve access to dental care and raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. By collaborating with schools and community organizations, we teach families about brushing, flossing, and the importance of regular dental visits. This grassroots approach cultivates a culture of health and empowers families to prioritize oral hygiene as a fundamental aspect of their overall well-being.

As we celebrate Dental Hygiene Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate the importance of oral health and the dedicated dental hygiene providers who strive to promote it. Together, we can continue making a difference — one smile at a time. So, let’s brush, floss, and smile our way through this month, advocating for better dental health for everyone!

Brooke Jones is Director of the School of Oral Health, Gateway District Health Department. This commentary was first published by the Kentucky Oral Health Coalition.

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