Mr. C (Clinical Therapy)

Prior to entering the program, I had a misconception that the oral health literacy of the general population were at a particular standard. As we live in country where the health care system is ranked top 30. Also, my parents have always had dental insurance and I would visit the dental office every six months. However, I gradually learn throughout the program, a client’s oral status and oral health perceptions is mediated by social determinants. In my senior years in dental hygiene, I was able to experience what we learned in class first hand. Mr.C a 65 year old man who was recently divorced,neglected by family members and recently moved to east Vancouver. With the castastrophe Mr. C was experiencing in his current stage of life, his oral health was in a similar state. When asked when was the last time he brushed, he stated he could not remember. Mr. C acknowledged that he had neglected taking care of his oral health, but also stated that he stopped brushing his teeth due to pain and the excessive bleeding. Mr. C thought that the bleeding of his gums was caused by his tooth brushing. Through debridement, client education, and oral self care sessions, there was a gradual improvement of his oral health. Moreover, there was visible change in his overall well-being as well. There was an increase in self-esteemed as Mr. C understood that he had control over his own oral health. He would enthusiastically give me weekly updates of the decrease in bleeding that he was experiencing. In addition, he would tell me about how he was meeting up with friends more often now as well. Through the supportive dental hygiene care that I was providing Mr. C was able to maintain his oral health and optimize his oral functions.

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