Fitness, What is it?
By Makeba S. Earst, DDS
Posted: 4:49p.m .est, October 08, 2006

 

 

Makeba S. Earst, DDS General Dentist - Faith Dental Center, Associate

Dental healthcare has not always been a priority in the Black community. It has often been an afterthought for many individuals in terms of seeking preventive dental care. It is now a priority for healthcare professionals to change this mindset and make dental healthcare important to everyone.

 

Healthcare providers are now recognizing the disparity that exists among various ethnic groups in terms of the quality of dental healthcare that minorities receive – Studies have shown that Blacks are disproportionately affected more than Whites in terms of receiving little to no preventive care and ultimately becoming strickened with gum disease and other health problems.

 

Minority healthcare providers along with major corporations are now putting forth massive efforts to increase dental awareness and encourage preventive maintenance of the oral cavity. This movement in part, is due to studies that show periodontal disease (gum disease) is related to low birth weight babies and cardiovascular disease and mostly affects minorities.

 

Dental professionals nationwide are committed to promoting a campaign to inform minorities of the simple and inexpensive ways to maintain good oral and systemic health. The dental healthcare provider first reminds the potential patient that the oral cavity is connected to the rest of the body. So, whatever infections or abnormalities exist in the mouth can or will potentially affect other parts of the body. The dental professional encourages good oral habits which includes brushing after every meal or brushing at least twice daily and flossing nightly before bed.

 

Dentists and physicians both encourage healthy eating habits to include lots of fruits and vegetables and limited sweets. The dentist also recommends preventive dental care and maintenance which includes regular cleanings, exams, checkups and routine dental appointments.

 

Hopefully, these quick tips will help to provide a few simple guidelines and motivation to continue to reduce the disparity in dental healthcare and keep smiles healthy!