<p>March 20th is World Oral Health Day (WOHD). In support of this, we spoke to 5 of our <a href="https://www.trueprofile.io/member/resources/category/member-interviews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Members</a> who work within dentistry. We asked them about the impacts of skipping a visit to the dentist, how to overcome ‘dentophobia’, why a career in dentistry is rewarding, and their top tips for maintaining a healthy mouth. </p>
<p><strong>We meet a:</strong></p>
<ul><li><a href="#Rahul-Rochani">Indian Orthodontist</a> 🇮🇳</li><li><a href="#Sahar-Elnour">Sudanese General & Cosmetic Dentist in UAE </a>🇸🇩🇦🇪</li><li><a href="#Zia-Ul-Haq">British General Dentist in Oman</a> 🇬🇧🇴🇲</li><li><a href="#Jamila-Cuaresma">Filipino Dental Nurse in Saudi Arabia</a> 🇵🇭🇸🇦</li><li><a href="#Nina-Lopez">Filipino Dental Nurse in UAE</a> 🇵🇭🇦🇪</li></ul>
<p></p>
<h2>Meet your fellow TrueProfile.io Members:</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large" id="Rachul-Rochani"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Rahul.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13726" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Rahul.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Rahul-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Rahul-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>
<h3>Please tell us about the work you do.</h3>
<p>I am an Orthodontist and Cosmetic Dental Surgeon and have 15+ years of clinical proficiency. I completed my Bachelors in Dentistry from the prestigious The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University in 2006 and graduated with honors of “The Best Outgoing Student of the Batch 2001” and subsequently completed my Masters in Orthodontics from The University of the East, Philippines and again was bestowed the “Highest Award of Excellence” of the MScD Program and “Summa Cum Laude”. Later I completed my Post Graduate Diploma in Medico-Legal Systems from the Symbiosis International University and Fellowship in Oral Implantology, which is also a clinical research program.</p>
<p>I am a full-time practicing orthodontist interested in temporary anchorage devices and cosmetic dentistry. I visit a few clinics and hospitals around Bhopal as a specialist orthodontist. We deal with aligning crooked teeth to modulate the growth of the jaws in the growing age to avoid/ reduce the need for surgical intervention in later stages of life. Most of my clinic work includes general dentistry like endodontics, prosthodontics, implants and aesthetic dentistry.</p>
<h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3>
<p>The smile on the patient’s face on seeing the final outcome after debonding (removing) the braces. One to two years of hard work leads to a lifetime of change on the patient’s face and self-esteem and boosts their confidence to a new level altogether. A healthy smile can truly transform our visual appearance the positivity of our mindset and improve the health of our mouth and our body.</p>
<h3>What does a typical day in your job look like?</h3>
<p>From hectic to relaxed on occasional days! Practice is now more customized which demands a proper explanation of the work I can deliver to the patient. Expectations and outcomes have to be balanced based on many clinical factors like the nature of the problem and ways to address them while also considering the patient’s finances. Patience is a virtue in orthodontics for both the orthodontist and the patient.</p>
<h3>Why is oral health such an important topic?</h3>
<p>The mouth is the mirror and gateway of the body. Not only does it tell us about the problems that can be related to general health, but your cardiac health can be related to gum disease. Our teeth have such an important role to play in our lives. They help us chew and digest food; they help us talk and speak clearly and give our jaw and face its shape. When we have gum disease, the bacteria from our mouth can get into the bloodstream. It then produces a protein that causes the blood to thicken. This means that clots are more likely to form, and the heart is not getting the nutrients and oxygen it needs resulting in an increased risk of a heart attack. Similarly, gum disease can also cause inflammation of the blood vessels, blocking the blood supply to the brain, leading to a potential stroke.</p>
<p>New research has also shown that we are more likely to develop diabetes if we have gum disease. I’ve seen patients developing cancer in the mouth due to a sharp tooth they have been ignoring for months. Good oral health can have so many wonderful life-changing benefits.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Rahul.jpg" alt="Dr. Rahul Rochani" class="wp-image-13737" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Rahul.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Rahul-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Rahul-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Dr. Rahul Rochani</figcaption></figure>
<h3>How will your practice celebrate World Oral Health Day this year?</h3>
<p>Conducting free health checkup camps for the less privileged rural population and offering discounts on selective treatment for the in-house city clients to boost awareness and self-care for their Oral health. We will share patient education videos and distribute pamphlets.</p>
<h3>How can an unhealthy mouth impact our lives?</h3>
<p>Because the mouth is the gateway to the body, bacteria from the teeth and gums can affect your overall health in more ways than one. Cardiac, respiratory and nervous systems may be affected by poor oral hygiene. Additionally, there is a greater risk of developing caries/decay or gum/periodontal problems leading to low self-esteem and poor social life. Interestingly, studies have shown that such conditions can cause premature birth in pregnant women and are linked to osteoarthritis.</p>
<h3>What are your top recommendations for a healthy mouth?</h3>
<p>Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two-three minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste under supervision. Floss daily and use mouthwash to remove food particles left after brushing and flossing. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if bristles are splayed or worn. For me, the correct brushing technique and optimal pressure are essential! </p>
<p>Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings as recommended by your dentist. Avoid tobacco use and harmful oral habits. Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary food and drinks.</p>
<h3>‘Dentophobia’ (odontophobia) is a common fear of dentists. How does this impact a patient’s dental health?</h3>
<p>It does affect oral health to an extensive level by piling up the dental needs of the patient adding both more finances and appointments to be treated comprehensively at a later date.</p>
<p>Mild fear is best remedied by going to the dentist instead of avoiding it. This is known as exposure therapy. Also, the later you see your dentist, the more time your anxieties will build up in anticipation. See the dentist at a less busy time of day, such as the morning hours, or ask for the first appointment. There will be fewer people and fewer tools making noises that could trigger your anxiety. In the case of significant dental work, your dentist may offer you sedation so that you’re not awake during the procedure.</p>
<p>However, we recommend bringing noise-canceling headphones or earphones with music to help relax the patient and ask a friend or a loved one to accompany the patient during the appointment. Calm clinic interiors such as dim lighting also make the patient more relaxed. Practice deep breathing and other meditation techniques to calm your nerves. Sometimes we prescribe anti-anxiety medications and anti-emetics to deal with such patients.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend people to take up a career in the dental field?</h3>
<p>If you are passionate about skills and creativity, thorough knowledge, and compassion for patients, please GO FOR IT! Dentistry is no longer about examining and prescribing medications like your physician. You need to be extra careful with patients when dealing with the most delicate part of their bodies.</p>
<p></p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large" id="Sahar-Elnour"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Sahar.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13727" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Sahar.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Sahar-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Sahar-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>
<h3>Where are you from, what is your occupation and where do you live?</h3>
<p>I am a general & cosmetic dentist from Sudan residing in Dubai. </p>
<h3>Tell us about the work you do. </h3>
<p>I do full mouth Rehabilitation, which includes Regular & cosmetic fillings, root canal treatment, simple & surgical extractions, fixed prosthesis (veneers, crowns & bridges), removable prosthesis (removable complete & partial denture).</p>
<h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3>
<p>Making people smile and be more confident with their teeth is truly the highlight of my journey as a dentist.</p>
<h3>Why is oral health such an important topic?</h3>
<p>Simply put, our oral health is integral to our general health. It can impair a person’s general health and exacerbate existing health conditions.</p>
<h3>How will you celebrate World Oral Health Day this year?</h3>
<p>I hope everyone practicing dentistry celebrates this day by raising awareness about oral health as much as possible. </p>
<h3>How can an unhealthy mouth impact our lives?</h3>
<p>There are many impacts and they can be severe. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental cavities and gum disease and are linked to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a lifelong commitment.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Sahar.jpg" alt="Dr. Sahar Elnour" class="wp-image-13738" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Sahar.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Sahar-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Sahar-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Dr. Sahar Elnour</figcaption></figure>
<h3>What are your top recommendations for a healthy mouth? </h3>
<p>Well, it’s not always about doing more, but about doing it the right way. We were always taught to brush twice a day, but if we train ourselves to brush our teeth after every meal, that is way better and keeping a mini floss in your pocket never hurts. It’s essential to change your toothbrush every 3 months and use a specific mouthwash prescribed by your dentist.</p>
<h3>‘Dentophobia’ (odontophobia) is a common fear of dentists. How does this impact a patient’s dental health?</h3>
<p>Getting a patient to come to the dentist for regular checkups is very important. I think dentists should always take the time to explain as much as possible to the patient to keep them aware of their oral health and not rush into just treating them without explanation. </p>
<p>Patients tend to act and do something about their teeth when they understand the problem they have first and how serious it is or how it will become in the near future if left untreated. </p>
<p>Building a trusting patient-dentist relationship is very crucial & extremely important & should last a lifetime.</p>
<h3>Would you recommend people to take up a career in the dental field?</h3>
<p>Yes, definitely, it is a very emotionally rewarding career. </p>
<h3>What are your hopes for the future? Do you plan to move to a different country or pursue a different specialty or career?</h3>
<p>I hope to be more experienced and continue striving to learn new things and stay mindful of new technologies and findings in my field.</p>
<p>Yes, to maybe move to a different country to see what dentistry is like on the other side of the world.</p>
<p>I don’t think I can ever pursue a different career. I hope to stay practicing dentistry until I am old & grey!</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large" id="Zia-Ul-Haq"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Zia.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13728" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Zia.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Zia-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Zia-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>
<p></p>
<h3>Tell us about the work you do.</h3>
<p>I work in one of 3 clinics belonging to the group. I practice general dentistry with a special interest in complex endodontics and anterior aesthetic dentistry. </p>
<h3>Why did you choose to work in healthcare?</h3>
<p>Dentistry allows me to use my love of science and creativity. I have met many wonderful people through the work I do. </p>
<h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3>
<p>Making a real difference to people’s lives is what makes it worthwhile. Dentistry has allowed me to travel all over the world and has given me an amazing quality of life and work: life balance. </p>
<h3>What does a typical day in your job look like?</h3>
<p>A typical day involves seeing routine recall examinations and maintenance therapy patients. We often see emergency pain cases and broken teeth. I get referrals for complex root canals and re-root canal treatments. </p>
<h3>Why is oral health such an important topic?</h3>
<p>Oral health is important as it can affect our general health and wellbeing. Medical science is discovering links between poor gum health and diabetes, stroke, heart disease and cancer. </p>
<h3>How will your practice celebrate World Oral Health Day this year?</h3>
<p>Our clinic will celebrate World Oral Health Day by posting public service announcement videos on social media platforms, special offers and discounts to raise oral health awareness and encourage attendance. </p>
<h3>How can an unhealthy mouth impact our lives?</h3>
<p>Apart from causing gum disease and dental cavities, an unhealthy mouth can lead to preventable pain, unsightly appearance and malodor. </p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Zia.jpg" alt="Dr. Zia Ul Haq" class="wp-image-13739" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Zia.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Zia-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/1.-Zia-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Dr. Zia Ul Haq</figcaption></figure>
<h3>What are your top recommendations for a healthy mouth? </h3>
<p>To ensure a healthy mouth, apart from brushing twice daily, eat a healthy, balanced diet. Attend the dentist and hygienist regularly every 6 months to ensure oral health. </p>
<h3>‘Dentophobia’ (odontophobia) is a common fear of dentists. How does this impact a patient’s dental health?</h3>
<p>“Dentophobia” or fear of Dentists is common and leads to poor and irregular attendance at the dental office and can lead to preventable pain, early loss of teeth and costly, complex treatments. Today’s dentists are better trained and better equipped to deal with common causes of fear, anxiety and phobia associated with the dental office. Talk to your dentist openly about these if you have them and ask how they can help. </p>
<h3>Would you recommend people to take up a career in the dental field?</h3>
<p>I would recommend people consider a career in dentistry. It is very challenging and rewarding. Admittedly, it’s not for everyone, but if one is bright, has a passion for the sciences, likes to work with people, and is creative, it is a good choice. </p>
<h3>What are your hopes for the future?</h3>
<p>Currently, I am very content in Muscat. I would like to live and work in Saudi Arabia when I reach my twilight years in dentistry</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large" id="Jamila-Cuaresma"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Jamila.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13729" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Jamila.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Jamila-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Jamila-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>
<p></p>
<h3>Tell us about the work you do.</h3>
<p>I am a dental nurse in Saudi Arabia and I work by assisting the dentist and prepare whatever they need to carry out treatment on a patient.<br></p>
<h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3>
<p>I love communicating with my patients and letting them know how the treatment is going. I also get great satisfaction from when patients are happy with their treatment.</p>
<h3>Why is oral health such an important topic?</h3>
<p>Oral health is a key indicator of overall health, well-being and quality of life. Normally, the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, keep bacteria under control.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Jamila.jpg" alt="Jamila Cuaresma" class="wp-image-13740" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Jamila.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Jamila-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/3.-Jamila-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Jamila Cuaresma</figcaption></figure>
<h3>How can an unhealthy mouth impact our lives?</h3>
<p><strong>Here are 3 ways an unhealthy mouth can impact our lives:</strong></p>
<ol><li>You subject yourself to many infections that can also spread to other organs. For example, infected endocarditis.</li><li>You can subject yourself to malnutrition like vitamin and fiber deficiency.</li><li> Losing teeth and bad breath affects communication and appearance.</li></ol>
<p></p>
<h3>What are your top recommendations for a healthy mouth? </h3>
<ol><li>Flossing is as important as brushing</li><li>Use toothpaste with fluoride</li><li>Limit sugar intake, including sugary drinks.</li><li>See your dentist twice a year</li><li>Don’t forget to clean your tongue</li><li>Maintain a healthy diet</li></ol>
<p></p>
<h3>‘Dentophobia’ (odontophobia) is a common fear of dentists. How does this impact a patient’s dental health?</h3>
<p>This can be overcome by seeing the dentist on a more gradual basis. Patients need to be reminded about the importance of visiting the dentist to maintain good oral health.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large" id="Nina-Lopez"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Nina.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13730" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Nina.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Nina-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/Banner-Nina-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure>
<h3>Tell us about the work you do. </h3>
<p>I am working as a Dental Nurse in the Prosthodontics department. Cleaning and preparing the clinic using strict infection control techniques, arranging the instruments and materials to be needed for the shift, assisting the doctors using the 4-hand technique in doing the dental procedures, and doing patients’ assessments.</p>
<h3>What does a typical day in your job look like? </h3>
<p>As soon as I come to work, I clean and prepare the clinic for the patients, prepare the materials, and lab cases needed for the shift, assist my doctor, discuss some cases with my doctor, take a 20-minute break, and study the cases of the patients scheduled for the next day. It’s like that every day and I enjoy it. I enjoy routine.</p>
<h3>Why is oral health such an important topic? </h3>
<p>Oral health gets neglected by the majority. Little do people know that oral health is as important as our physical and mental health, and it is the foundation of healthy well-being.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="820" height="312" src="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/2.-Nina.jpg" alt="Nina Lopez" class="wp-image-13741" srcset="https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/2.-Nina.jpg 820w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/2.-Nina-300x114.jpg 300w, https://production-prod-trueprofile-blogassets-origin.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/uploads/2022/03/2.-Nina-768x292.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /><figcaption>Nina Lopez</figcaption></figure>
<h3>How will your practice celebrate World Oral Health Day this year? </h3>
<p>This year, we will be conducting seminars regarding good oral hygiene via MS teams. There will be school visits with short lectures and demonstrations of proper brushing techniques (of course with Covid19 protocols).</p>
<h3>How can an unhealthy mouth impact our lives? </h3>
<p>Caries is the outcome of an unhealthy mouth. If untreated, this might lead to severe tooth decay and infections. An unhealthy mouth can impact our physical features as well. And in some cases, it can lead to low self-confidence.</p>
<h3>‘Dentophobia’ (odontophobia) is a common fear of dentists. How does this impact a patient’s dental health? </h3>
<p>I’ve seen a lot of patients with dentophobia and they tell me they suffer from it due to a bad experience with dentists when they were young. Having a fear of the dentist makes them neglect their oral health issues. Assurance is the best way to help patients overcome their anxiety and stress. We need to assure them that there is a solution for every dental problem and that the patient will be comfortable before, during, and after each procedure.</p>
<h4>If you would like to join the ranks of our incredible Members in making the world a healthier and better place, sign up for your TrueProfile.io Membership today.</h4>
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