In Case You Missed It: Navigating the Intricacies of Oral Health and pH Balance

A recent webinar titled "The pH Party in Your Mouth that You Weren't Invited To" presented by Shannon Nanne, RDH, offered a fascinating exploration into the often overlooked but crucial aspects of oral health related to pH balance and dysphagia. Designed for dental professionals and enthusiasts, the session was packed with insights aimed at enhancing patient care and understanding the complex interplay of oral conditions.

Webinar Overview

Shannon Nanne brought her wealth of experience as a dental hygienist to the forefront, engaging over 2,500 attendees. The session was sponsored by VOCO and hosted by Viva Learning, whose collaboration ensured a rich educational experience. Shannon’s discussion ranged from basic pH levels in the mouth to more complex issues like dysphagia—highlighting their effects on oral and overall health. If you missed this live session, we've compiled key insights below.

Key Highlights

1. Understandining Oral pH Dynamics: Ms. Nanne began by explaining the pH scale, emphasizing the risks associated with imbalanced oral pH. "At a pH of 5.5, this is when the teeth begin to start to demineralize...a healthy mouth is non-acidic and does have a neutral pH range," she noted. This foundational knowledge is vital for preventing cavities and dental hypersensitivity.

2. The Impact of Dysphagia: Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can have serious health implications, as Ms. Nanne pointed out. "It can lead to tooth decay and other health issues...the ability to actually safely swallow is truly vital," she stressed. She shared stories from her experience, underscoring the importance of mindful eating habits and addressing swallowing difficulties.

3. Strategies for Xerostomia Management: Highlighting solutions for managing dry mouth, Shannon discussed various products and practices. "Maintaining good hydration is the most important thing for these patients," she advised. Products featuring ingredients like xylitol and fluoride, such as the VOCO's Remin Pro, were recommended as effective in maintaining oral health despite xerostomia.

This overview captures just a portion of the valuable insights shared by Shannon Nanne during her session. To delve deeper into these topics and access the full range of her expertise, make sure to view the complete webinar at VOCOLearning.com. Equip yourself with knowledge to better serve your patients and address the multifaceted challenges of oral health.