In a recent enlightening webinar, Sonya Dunbar, affectionately known as the Geriatric Tooth Fairy, explored a significant connection that often goes unnoticed: the intersection of mental health and oral care. This blog post delves into the compelling conversation she hosted, highlighting key aspects of how dental professionals can navigate the delicate balance between understanding mental health challenges and promoting good oral care practices. If you missed the webinar, here’s a roundup of its insightful discussions and highlights to pique your interest.
Sonya kicked off the session with an overview of the staggering prevalence of mental illness in the U.S., with "more than one in five U.S. adults" living with a mental illness, as reported in 2021. She stressed that mental health issues are common yet riddled with stigma, which often prevents individuals from seeking help. “It’s important to realize that many people with mental health issues live productive lives despite their challenges,” she shared.
The link between mental health and dental health became clear as Sonya discussed how various mental illnesses, such as anxiety disorders, can affect oral health. She highlighted that anxiety and the medications taken for mental health disorders often result in dry mouth, which in turn can lead to rapid decay. “Dry mouth is a common thing in a lot of people with mental health issues because of the medications they take,” Sonya explained. To combat the negative effects on oral health, Sonya recommended products like Remin Pro, which can help manage dry mouth and protect against decay, especially for those who might find traditional oral care routines challenging.
The seminar wasn't just about patients; Sonya also emphasized the importance of self-care among dental professionals themselves. She noted, "Who cares for the caregiver?" given the high pressures and demanding nature of dental work. She encouraged dental professionals to prioritize their mental health, reminding them that “self-care is not selfish; it's essential,” and discussed ways they can ensure they are working from a place of wellness.
The full recording of this valuable webinar is available at VOCOLearning.com, where you can explore further the intricate discussions led by Sonya Dunbar. Equip yourself with knowledge and strategies to better understand and support those living with mental health issues in your dental practice.