Modern Hygienist - November 2008 - (Page 18)

patients | ORTHODONTICS Brace yourself e hygienist’s role in treating the orthodontic patient. by Donna Marie Grzegorek, RDH, EC As dental hygienists we have a tremendous opportunity to affect the health and integrity of hard and soft tissue in every orthodontic patient. The bacterial challenge that a patient with orthodontic appliances confronts is extraordinary. Maintenance of the orthodontic appliance (be it fixed or removable), along with the preservation of a healthy periodontium, necessitates the skillful judgment of a trained professional. As hygienists we must understand the intricacies of those obstacles our patients wearing appliances confront. Hygienists can play a significant role in managing the comprehensive demands of the orthodontic patient. Treating the orthodontic patient is exciting, challenging and extremely rewarding. Ms. Grzegorek has a wonderful professional relationship with Dr. John Napolitano, an orthodontist and CEO of Innovative Dental Professionals. Their ability to work together, communicate well and value the other’s input has been critical to her success in creatively and effectively caring for orthodontic patients. YOUNG AND YOUNG AT HEART As the goals of orthodontics evolve and treatment modalities expand, we find ourselves offering orthodontic therapy to patients in every age group. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends every patient be seen by an orthodontist for an evaluation by age 7.1 Some orthodontists interceptively treat patients with growth aberrations as early as 3 years of age.2 Early evaluation and treatment provides an enhanced opportunity for successful outcomes in the management of growth and development, space preservation and facial balance. Newer research demonstrates that orthodontic expansion may play a role in the elimination of nocturnal enuresis (bed-wetting)3, ADD, ADHD4 as well as the elimination of snoring and sleep apnea.5 As we observe the profession moving toward earlier referral, we must recognize the value a dental hygienist has in assisting these younger patients with oral hygiene instruction, patient education and behavioral modification. Adolescence—a second popular age group for orthodontics—presents a challenging time both socially and functionally for the teenaged patient. Periodontal conditions are intensified because of the hormonal impact of pre-pubescence.6 The role of the dental hygienist is essential to preventing gingival inflammation, hypertrophic tissue response and demineralization. Additionally, there are a growing number of adult patients seeking orthodontic care. Some desire treatment to resolve periodontal challenges that present from crowding. Some seek treatment to prevent bone loss. Others obtain orthodontic opinions to improve facial esthetics, improve function, upright teeth in preparation for implant placement and some to eliminate airway restrictions associated with sleep disorders. Each of these age groups face common 18 modernhygienist.com | November 2008 PHOTO: JOSE LUIS PELAEZ INC/GETTY IMAGES, DONNA GRZEGOREK http://www.modernhygienist.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Modern Hygienist - November 2008

Modern Hygienist - November 2008 Contents Editor's Letter Letters Modern Solutions Brace Yourself Pathways: Behind the Mask Faith In Place Ultimate Recall: You Can't Work Alone Going Public: Why Public Health? A Fresh Approach to Thanksgiving Ad Index Classifieds Moonlighting

Modern Hygienist - November 2008

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