Addressing the Root Cause
We were recently having issues with our indoor plant despite our best efforts to care for it, two young leaves had begun to turn yellow, and insects had started to colonise the leaves.
The surgeon in me decided the answer was to cut the leaves off, but as a gardener I knew the importance of tackling the cause. As luck would have it, we had a very respected gardener attend as a patient and after we completed treatment, I directed the conversation to the issue of the plant.
Well, this lovely patient had already identified 4-5 issues with the plant in the few moments she had been sitting in reception and quickly reeled off a list of things to tackle. “It is like Sophie Thompson says, ‘Treat the plant to treat the disease, a healthy plant will be less susceptible to disease’”. By following the patient's advice, I am happy to report the plant is already showing signs of significant improvement.
I think there are many similarities between Dentistry and this plant. Traditionally dentistry has been viewed by the public as simply “drilling and filling” but without addressing the root cause, the disease continues to occur. We know that tooth decay can be arrested and even reversed given the right changes to the mouth. I find one of the most rewarding parts of dentistry is when a patient is educated on diet, correct technique to brush and clean between the teeth and the use of oral health products that shift the mouth from one which favors decay to one with favors repair. I am always thrilled when we see the patient for their review and can see the transformation to a healthy mouth. -Tim
Written by: Dr Tim Curran
Dr Tim Curran completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in Adelaide and has provided personalised family dental care for over 14 years here in Port Lincoln. He enjoys all aspects of dentistry and looks forward to continuing to cultivate long lasting relationships with his patients while striving to provide quality services and the best possible care.