Amrita Das*

Department of Periodontology, Saraswati Dhanwantari Dental College, India

*Corresponding Author: Amrita Das, Department of Periodontology, Saraswati Dhanwantari Dental College, India.

Received: September 23, 2024; Published: October 01, 2024

Citation: Amrita Das. “Smiles and Minds - Bridging the Gap for Better Care with Mental Health". Acta Scientific Dental Sciences 8.11 (2024):01-02.

Abstract

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders specifically Internal Derangement are a significant yet often overlooked category of health issues that can profoundly affect a person's quality of life. Despite their prevalence, these disorders remain under-diagnosed and misunderstood, creating a gap in effective treatment and patient care. The complexity of TMJ Disorders, coupled with their ability to mimic other conditions, often leads to a prolonged and frustrating journey for those seeking relief. There has been a long standing debate over the treatment of TMJ Disorders because of reduced treatment options. TMJ Arthroscopy in recent years has emerged as an effective mode of initial management of TMJ Internal Derangement in a minimally invasive method with minimum risk to Facial nerve and fewer complications. This article describes the conceptual guideline for the fresh Maxillofacial Surgeon to effectively perform TMJ Arthroscopy.

Keywords:Clinical Guideline; TMJ; Arthroscopy

The relationship between mental health and oral health is increasing as a critical area in dentistry. Dental professional are uniquely positioned to identify and address mental health issue, yet many may feel on prepared to tackle this challenges. Understanding the connection is essential for providing comprehensive care and improving patient outcome.

The connection between mental health and oral health

Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression can significantly impact patients oral health patient with anxiety may avoid dental visit leading to untreated dental issues that exacerbate their mental health. Conversely poor oral health can contribute to feeling low self-esteem anxiety and depression, creating the vicious cycle that affects both physical and mental well-being.

Identify mental health issues in dental practice

Dental professionals often encounter patients exhibiting sign of anxiety or stress. This can manifest as physical symptoms such as teeth grinding (Bruxism) or gum disease - or as behavioural indicators like reluctance to open up during consultation.

Treating in mental health awareness can help dentist recognize this sign early and provide support or reference.

Affective community is a key. Dentist should create a welcoming environment where patients feel safe discussion there concern using open ended questions can Anchorage patients to share their experiences and feelings related to both there dental and mental health.

Strategies for supporting pateint

• Patient education: Providing information about the links between mental and oral health can empower patients educational materials can help them understand how oral hygiene is essential for there over oral health
• Anxiety management techniques: Dentist can implement strategies such as mind fullness, deep breathing exercises or guided imagery to help patients manage anxiety during appointment.
• Collaborative care: Stabilizing with mental health professional can enhance patients care dentist should feel comfortable reference mental health specialist when necessary.
• Tailored treatment plan: Acknowledgement patients mental health status can lead to more personalized approach
• Follow up: Regular follow up can help monitor patients progress both in there oral health and mental well-being. A simple phone call or message can show patients that there dental provider care about there over or health.
• Conclusion: The integration of mental health considerations into dental practice is essential for fostering holistic patient care. By recognising the intricate links between mental and oral health, dental professionals can help patients break the cycle of neglect and stigma. Treating mental health awareness, open communication and collaborative care can lead to improve patient outcomes and more supportive dental environment. As the field of dentistry continuous to evolve, privatizing mental health will be key to delivery comprehensive and compassionate care.

Copyright: © 2024 Amrita Das. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.