Nearly 75 percent of American adults suffer from various forms of periodontal (gum) disease and don’t know it. Though reversible in its initial stages, mounting evidence of the relationship between oral bacteria and life-threatening diseases such as cancer; heart disease; diabetes, respiratory ailments; and premature, low birth weight babies makes it critical that the condition be prevented or treated aggressively. Reference: ADHA Fact Sheet
LIFE THREATENING DISEASES
Did you know that neglecting oral health leads to other serious life threatening diseases? Oral infections, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, can lead to diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and oral cancer.
ORAL CANCER
Did you know Dental Hygienists can detect the negative effects of smoking and drinking on your oral health? Oral cancer is more common than leukemia; skin melanoma; Hodgkin's disease; and cancers of the brain, liver, bone, thyroid gland, stomach, ovaries, and cervix; and is typically caused by long-term use of tobacco products and alcohol. One of the most important parts of a regular oral health exam is through oral cancer screening.
HEART DISEASE
Recent Studies have shown that a patient with periodontal disease is twice as likely to develop heart disease as one without the condition.
PERIDONTAL DISEASE AND DIABETES
Did you know that research studies have found a link between periodontal disease and diabetes? Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the major complications of diabetes. In fact, approximately 95% of Americans who suffer from diabetes also have periodontal disease. The most common oral health symptoms associated with diabetes are; red, swollen, or receding gums, bleeding gums, or a a persistent bad breath or unusual taste.
What is an RDHAP?
An RDHAP is a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice. The purpose of an RDHAP is to provide a mid-level practitioner to meet the needs of an underserved population. An RDHAP carries a license which allows them to have their own independent business in various settings other than a dental office. An RDHAP can provide their services in schools, institutions, residences, clinics, skilled nursing facilities and private homes of homebound persons. Read more about the RDHAP.
Preventative care which an RDHAP provides, is the key to avoiding extensive dental treatment. Neglecting one's dental hygiene can create a financial and painful consequence to residents of a skilled nursing facility.
An RDHAP is a benefit to the nursing home staff by bringing attention to acute infections as well as ill fill dentures. This creates on overall continuity of care to the nursing home, the resident and the referring health care providers.
Do you provide the same services as a dental office?
We provide the same services as an in-office Dental Hygienist, including: Cancer and Soft Tissue Exam, Oral Prophylaxis, Periodontal Deep Cleaning, Fluoride Treatments, Denture Cleaning and Identification, and Oral Hygiene Education and Instruction.
Who may sign the dental Consent for Treatment form required to obtain services from Dental Hygiene Out & About?
The person who has Power of Attorney for Healthcare and/or the responsible party who coordinates healthcare and financial affairs may sign the Consent for Treatment form.
Does insurance cover your services?
Most dental insurances can be billed for treatment including: Delta Dental, Blue Cross, Aetna, United Concordia, and Medi-Cal.
What if my loved-one is not cooperative?
Judy is specially trained to work with persons with Alzheimer's and Dementia related patients. These types of patients benefit greatly from our services.
