Dental Health and Cardiovascular Disease

The dental profession has been aware for many years of the link between high sugar intake and dental decay and obesity and sickness. But now the American Heart Association has released a statement implicating high intake of sugar with obesity and cardiovascular disease.

The primary source of added sugars was found to be soft drinks and other sweetened beverages which then lead to obesity, higher body weight and increased risk of heart disease. It is recommended that intake of added sugar is no more than 100 calories per day for women and no more than 150 calories per day for men.

If you have any concerns regarding the sugar intake in your diet and the effect it may be having on your health please ask any questions at your next visit. We can provide you with a food diary to help take the first step in monitoring your weekly intake of added sugars.

Infection Control and Hand Hygiene

Infection control is an important part of working in the health industry as it is very much the frontline in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. You will notice that at Richmond Fine Dentistry we have placed bottles of Microshield antibacterial gel for your convenience; we encourage you to use these before and after your dental visit. We also ask that you refrain from putting your fingers in your mouth; it is not good for your health, you can catch bacteria and spread germs to objects you touch such as pens, and furniture in the surgery.

All our staffs have been trained in the latest infection control protocols these include

• All instruments are cleaned, bagged and autoclaved or disposed of if single use.
• Pneumatic hands free custom designed sterilization centre
• Barrier technique to prevent cross infection, plastic barriers are used at each set up
• Gloves ,surgical masks and antibacterial gel
• Central vacuum system for removal of dust and allergens
• Environmental hygiene
• Regular updates for our staff to keep abreast of new protocols and regulations

Did you know

Recent studies have highlighted that oral bacteria, poor oral hygiene and more advanced gum disease (periodontitis) are now thought to increase the incidence of systemic infections and pulmonary infections, especially pneumonia in medically compromised and elderly patients.

Dental risk factors for respiratory infection from oral bacteria include:

• High plaque levels
• Irregular oral hygiene
• Untreated periodontitis
• Dry mouth
• Mouth breathing

If you identify with any of the above mentioned risk factors please bring this to our attention at your next visit so we can advise on an appropriate treatment to lower your risk of infection as a result of compromised oral and dental care.

Continuing Dental Education of the Month

Mouthguard production in 2010 I have been in Perth this week and attended a training session at Erkodent Australia where I learned the latest techniques to produce comfortable and protective mouthguards for all sports. Would you believe there are 15 colours and 10 freestyle colours and unlimited multi-colours available for mouthguards?

Dental ED is a study club and the global leader in online dental education. Since its launch in August 2003, it has established live lecture programs in Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Asia. Thousands of dentists and dozens of high-profile presenters have taught and interacted through the Dental ED network. Certainly this is a most efficient and environmentally responsible method of bringing hundreds of professionals together. The last presentation was about the restoration of broken down mouths with veneers, crowns, and implants. The impact of modern dentistry on the lives of patients was underscored; improved aesthetics, function and confidence.

ITI – International Team for Implantology. I am a member of this worldwide network of specialist dentists with an interest in implant dentistry. This month the evening seminar topic was comparing various designs of Straumann implants and the results of research from research centres around the globe. Implants, modern tooth replacement for improved confidence.

Tax relief for dental treatment

Did you know that you claim a 20% tax rebate for any medical, dental, prescriptions, physio etc of your out of pocket expenses after the first $1,500 spent in a financial year.

We are more than happy to give you a print out of what you claimed and what you paid in a financial year. Contact your pharmacy and medicare office for similar information and present to your accountant.

For more information go to the government website or seek counsel from your tax adviser.

Opening Hours

Dental
Mon: 10am – 7pm
Tue: 8am – 5pm
Wed: 8am – 5pm
Thurs: 8am – 5pm
Fri: 8am – 5pm

Dental Hygienist
Mon: 5pm – 7pm
Tue: 8am – 5pm
Wed: 8am – 5pm
Fri: 8am – 5pm

Cancellation Policy
At RFD we require a minimum of 24hrs notice for cancellations. In the event that less than 24hrs notice is given prior to the scheduled appointment time you may be charged a cancellation fee.