.png)
While so many of our patient families are sending their children off to their first days of school today, tomorrow, and early next week, we just wanted to celebrate this exciting time, and remind you that we are here to support you in this ongoing journey of development.
The Doctor as an Educator
The word doctor comes from the Latin word for "teacher," itself from docēre, meaning "to teach." Our commitment to your family's health is not restricted to examinations and treatments within the clinic's walls. Instead, we hope to support and inspire an ongoing effort for each individual to be the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves.
We aim for our clinic to be a source of ongoing education and growth for our pediatric and adult patients alike. This can feel different from prior dental experiences at other clinics where a “dental cleaning” is a quick turnaround assembly line type procedure akin to an oil change or haircut. There’s SO much more to it when you consider the mouth as a gateway to the body. And we take this responsibility even more seriously, especially since so many of our physician colleagues and other healthcare providers are over burdened with care demands and seem to have less and less time to spend with our mutual patients to evaluate the whole body and educate the patient on their unique concerns and means by which to improve their health.
A Comprehensive Approach to Education
Taking cues from the Scandinavian educational model, we view education as a communal responsibility, involving not only schools but families and communities. Similarly, the education around dental health isn't confined to the dental chair; it extends into your homes and daily lives. We strive to align our practices with the principles of finding work/school-life balance.
In countries like Denmark and Sweden, holistic education prioritizes the well-being of the child, focusing not just on academic achievements but on social skills, emotional intelligence, and physical health. This echoes our philosophy of a broader understanding of dental health, educating our patients on how dietary choices, stress management, and overall lifestyle can impact not only oral health but their total well-being.
Prevention is the Best Cure
Countries like Germany and France have adopted preventive approaches to healthcare, recognizing that early intervention can reduce the need for more invasive treatments later on. Our dental practice takes this to heart, focusing on preventive measures such as regular cleanings, dental education, and early detection of potential issues.
Prevention begins with understanding, and our dental team is here to answer questions, provide resources, and guide your family in making healthy choices that benefit not only the teeth and gums but the entire body.
Community Involvement: It Takes a Village
Our clinic believes that wellness is cultivated within a supportive community. Following countries that emphasize community in their approach to education and health, we strive to create an environment where learning and growth happen together.
Through workshops, family-oriented activities, and engagement with local wellness organizations, we build a network that enriches our shared understanding of health. Our practice stands as a part of a broader community committed to nurturing overall wellness.
Back-to-School Tips & Tricks from Your Holistic Dentist
Healthy Eating Habits:
Pack nutritious snacks and lunches, rich in vitamins and minerals.
Avoid sugary drinks and snacks to prevent cavities.
Encourage children to drink water throughout the day.
Get child involved in grocery shopping and cooking in the kitchen.
Regular Dental Hygiene Routine:
Brush teeth twice a day with hydroxyapatite toothpaste.
Use dental floss daily to remove food particles between teeth.
Consider a child-friendly mouthwash (also with hydroxyapatite) to fight germs.
Protective Gear for Sports:
Ensure children wear mouth guards during sports activities. These are important not just for protecting the teeth but to prevent concussions.
Replace mouth guards regularly to maintain proper fit and protection.
Dental Checkups and Cleanings:
Schedule regular dental checkups to catch potential issues early.
Consider sealants to protect your child's teeth from decay.
Stress Management:
Encourage healthy sleeping habits for overall health, including oral health. If snoring, mouth breathing, or waking frequently, we recommend coming in sleep and breathing analysis; dysfunctional sleep and breathing can have major implications on behavior, mood, growth and development, and school performance.
Teach children stress-reducing techniques which can prevent grinding of teeth.
Educate Your Child:
Make dental health fun by educating through books, apps, or videos.
Involve them in shopping for dental care products like toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Stay Organized and Consistent:
Create a morning and night dental routine chart to make hygiene practices a habit.
Reward consistency and progress with non-food-based rewards.
Holistic Connection Between Oral and Overall Health:
Educate children on the connection between dental health and overall wellness.
Encourage whole-body wellness activities like exercise, mindfulness, and balanced nutrition.
Be a Role Model:
Set a positive example by maintaining your dental and whole body health routine.
Share your knowledge and values about holistic health with your children.
Environmentally Conscious Choices:
Consider eco-friendly dental products like bamboo toothbrushes.
Teach children about the importance of conservation, including water usage during brushing.
Remember, the foundation of good dental health begins at home, and a holistic approach ensures that your child’s teeth, mind, and body are prepared for the challenges of the new school year. Consult with our team to personalize these guidelines to your child’s needs, and make this school year a healthy and joyful one!
What’s Next
In a world where our lives are increasingly interconnected, the path to wellness extends beyond individual actions. It's about embracing a philosophy that integrates education, community engagement, and a balanced lifestyle. Inspired by practices from around the world, our holistic dental clinic is not just a place for dental care; it's a space for learning, growth, and overall well-being.
Come, join us in this journey towards a more comprehensive understanding of health, and let's build a healthier future for ourselves and our families, one smile at a time.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us at 214-997-0366 today. Together, we can create a lasting impact that goes beyond the teeth and taps into the very essence of a healthy, happy life. You can learn more about what to expect from first dental visits here for yourself (adults & older adults over 65) or if you're bring in your child (babies & toddlers, big kids, and teens).
Comments