October 28, 2024

Dental Hygiene Challenges and Solutions for the Bleeding Disorders Community with Bonnie Des Jardins

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, we welcomed Bonnie Des Jardins, a registered dental hygienist in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Bonnie shares her insights on the critical connection between oral and systemic health. She sheds light on the unique challenges and necessary precautions for dental care within the bleeding disorders community.

Bonnie Des Jardins has been a registered dental hygienist for 32 years and practices at the Hemophilia Outreach Center in Green Bay. Educated at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Bonnie transitioned from private practice to working with the bleeding disorders community ten years ago. Her dedication to expanding her expertise has made her an invaluable asset to the center and her patients, promoting the importance of comprehensive dental care.

“We have found correlations between oral inflammation and your heart health, oral inflammation and uncontrolled diabetes, and oral inflammation and low birth weight babies.” ~ Bonnie Des Jardins

Today on Beyond the Bleeds:

  • In dentistry, the portosystemic link is a significant connection between oral health and overall systemic health.
  • Inflammation in the mouth can correlate with health issues such as heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and low birth weight in babies.
  • Regular brushing and flossing are essential to managing the bacteria that cause oral inflammation.
  • Stannous fluoride toothpaste offers multiple benefits, including cavity protection, bacterial reduction, and natural desensitization.
  • Patients with bleeding disorders should always coordinate their dental care with their healthcare team to avoid procedure complications.
  • Regular dental visits, including routine cleaning every six months, are crucial for managing dental decay and gum health.
  • Sip all day, get decay: prolonged exposure to sugary or acidic drinks increases the risk of cavities.
  • Resources like local colleges’ dental hygiene programs and community clinics are available for underinsured or uninsured patients needing dental care.

Guest Contact Information:

Bonnie Des Jardins Hemophilia Outreach Center

Resources Mentioned:

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Dental Clinic

Tri-County Dental in Outagamie, Winnebago, and Calumet counties.

Bridge Community Clinic in Wausau

Looking for practical tips, expert advice, and a sense of community while living with or supporting someone with a bleeding disorder?

Subscribe to Beyond the Bleeds, the podcast that explores life with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and other rare conditions. Hosted by Heather Hansen and John Mazzariello, we bring you real stories, expert insights, and heartfelt conversations designed to help you navigate life Beyond the Bleeds.

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Don’t miss out on the Hemophilia Outreach Center’s Winter Education Program on December 7th, 2024, at the Oneida Hotel in Green Bay!

With inspiring presentations, fun activities for kids, and a special visit from Santa, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Visit:
 
https://www.hemophiliaoutreach.org/events 
to register today.

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