The field of dentistry has evolved beyond traditional practices, embracing a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of oral health with overall well-being. Holistic dental care is gaining prominence, focusing not only on treating dental issues but also on addressing underlying systemic factors. In this paradigm shift, periodontal services play a crucial role, with a growing emphasis on integrating nutrition for comprehensive oral health.
Understanding Periodontal Services
Periodontal services encompass the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases, which affect the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bones. Beyond routine cleanings and basic dental care, these services delve into the realm of gum health, addressing issues such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
Holistic Dental Care
Holistic dental care approaches oral health from a broader perspective, acknowledging the intricate connections between the mouth and the rest of the body. It recognizes that the health of the teeth and gums can significantly impact overall well-being and vice versa. Holistic dentists consider lifestyle factors, stress levels, and nutrition in addition to traditional dental practices.
Nutrition and Oral Health
The relationship between nutrition and oral health is a fundamental aspect of holistic dental care. What we eat directly influences the health of our teeth and gums. Poor nutrition can contribute to the development of dental issues, while a well-balanced diet can support optimal oral health. Key nutrients for maintaining healthy teeth and gums include calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Calcium is essential for the development and maintenance of strong teeth and bones. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are excellent sources of calcium. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, and sunlight exposure is a natural way to obtain this vitamin. Additionally, vitamin D can be found in fatty fish and fortified foods.
Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the gums. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers are rich sources of vitamin C. Antioxidants, found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, help combat inflammation and support the body’s natural defense mechanisms against oral diseases.
Holistic Integration
Incorporating nutrition into periodontal services is a holistic approach that acknowledges the interconnected nature of bodily systems. Holistic dentists work with patients to develop personalized nutrition plans that support oral health and overall well-being. This may involve identifying dietary deficiencies and recommending supplements when necessary.
For instance, a patient with a calcium deficiency might be advised to increase their intake of dairy products or consider supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Similarly, someone lacking vitamin D may be encouraged to spend more time in sunlight or incorporate vitamin D-rich foods into their diet.
Holistic dentists also emphasize the importance of lifestyle factors, such as stress management, as chronic stress can contribute to oral health issues. Stress-reduction techniques, coupled with a nutrient-dense diet, can significantly impact the prevention and management of periodontal diseases.
Preventive Measures and Patient Education
Holistic dentistry places a strong emphasis on preventive measures and patient education. Instead of solely focusing on reactive treatments for existing dental problems, holistic practitioners work proactively to educate patients on the importance of nutrition, lifestyle choices, and regular dental care to prevent issues from arising in the first place.
Conclusion
The integration of nutrition into periodontal services represents a holistic approach to dental care that recognizes the intricate connections between oral health and overall well-being. As the field of dentistry continues to evolve, embracing a broader perspective on health, patients stand to benefit from a more comprehensive and personalized approach to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Holistic dentistry, with its emphasis on nutrition and preventive measures, paves the way for a future where oral health is not viewed in isolation but as an integral part of the intricate tapestry of overall well-being.
Highland, Lake County, Indiana
Highland is a town in Lake County, Indiana, United States. The population was 23,984 at the 2020 census. The town was incorporated on April 4, 1910. It is a part of the Chicago metropolitan area and North Township, and is surrounded by Hammond to the north, Munster to the west, Schererville to the south and Griffith to the east.
History
In 1847, two pioneers from Ohio, Michael and Judith Johnston, became Highland’s first settlers. The town slowly expanded until the early 1880s, when the development of Chicago & Atlantic railroad trackage through the town attracted agriculture and manufacturing industries. Dutch settlers began moving to Highland shortly thereafter from nearby Munster.[7] 304 people resided in Highland when it was incorporated in 1910. In 1992, the Indiana Historical Bureau placed a state historical marker at 8941 Kleinman Road (41°33′2″N 87°26′14″W) to recognize the immigration of Dutch in the Calumet Region.[8]
In 1927, President Calvin Coolidge visited and delivered the dedication address for Wicker Memorial Park, located on the west side of the town. Highland, as with other towns along the Little Calumet River, has historically been subject to flooding,[9][10] particularly during spring, and particularly in areas away from Ridge Road, which runs along the highest land in the town. Significant floods have affected Highland in 2008, 2007, and especially in September 2006.
On October 31, 2008, Barack Obama, who four days later would be elected the 44th President of the United States, stopped in Highland for a rally that drew 40,000 people to Wicker Park. It was the largest crowd there since President Coolidge dedicated the park in 1927.
Geography
Highland is located at 41°32′59″N 87°27′29″W (41.549851, -87.458064).[11]
According to the 2010 census, Highland has a total area of 6.96 square miles (18.03 km2), of which 6.94 square miles (17.97 km2) (or 99.71%) is land and 0.02 square miles (0.05 km2) (or 0.29%) is water.[12]
Neighborhoods
Highland has several neighborhoods and subdivisions. They include: Arbor Hill, Boulevard Estates, Brantwood, Ellendale, Golfmoor, Highland Terrace Estates, Homestead, Hook’s, Lakeside, Meadows, Pettit Park, Sandalwood, Southridge, White Oak Estates (of Highland), Wicker Highlands, Wicker Park Estates and Wicker Park Manor (Frog Hollow).
Architecture
Highland’s downtown area features a number of buildings exhibiting Mid-Century Modern style architecture.[7]
Demographics
2010 census
As of the census[3] of 2010, there were 23,727 people, 9,924 households, and 6,547 families living in the town. The population density was 3,418.9 inhabitants per square mile (1,320.0/km2). There were 10,335 housing units at an average density of 1,489.2 per square mile (575.0/km2). The racial makeup of the town was 88.6% White, 4.2% African American, 0.2% Native American, 1.6% Asian, 3.4% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 12.8% of the population.
There were 9,924 households, of which 28.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.9% were married couples living together, 11.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.0% were non-families. 29.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 2.97.
The median age in the town was 41.5 years. 20.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26% were from 25 to 44; 27.9% were from 45 to 64; and 17.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.
2000 census[edit]
As of the census[4] of 2000, there were 23,546 people, 9,636 households, and 6,677 families living in the town. The population density was 3,428.3 inhabitants per square mile (1,323.7/km2). There were 9,925 housing units at an average density of 1,445.1 per square mile (558.0/km2). The racial makeup of the town was 94.45% White, 1.26% African American, 0.15% Native American, 1.10% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 1.80% from other races, and 1.21% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.61% of the population.
There were 9,636 households, out of which 27.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.5% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.7% were non-families. 26.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.97.
In the town, the population was spread out, with 21.5% under the age of 18, 8.0% from 18 to 24, 28.9% from 25 to 44, 25.0% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over there were 89.2 males.
The median income for a household in the town was $51,297, and the median income for a family was $59,106. Males had a median income of $46,217 versus $28,635 for females. The per capita income for the town was $24,530. About 1.8% of families and 3.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.4% of those under age 18 and 3.7% of those age 65 or over.
Transportation
The commercial airport closest to Highland is the Gary/Chicago International Airport in Gary, but most Highland residents and visitors travel from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport or Chicago Midway International Airport.
Highland lies just south of the Borman Expressway. US 41, known locally as Indianapolis Boulevard, is a major north-south artery in the town. Due to Highland’s proximity to Chicago, several other Interstate and U.S. highways are within a 20-mile (32 km) radius.
The town’s pedestrians and cyclists are served by the Erie Lackawanna Trail, a cycling/multiuse, paved rail trail, which cuts diagonally through Highland, connecting the town with Griffith, and Crown Point, to the southeast. The Highland portion of the trail is also known locally as the Crosstown Trail. The trail runs along the former right-of-way of the Erie-Lackawanna and Baltimore and Ohio railroads, and will eventually connect pedestrians to Chicago, Illinois, to the northwest and beyond Crown Point to the southeast by planned trail extensions. The trail also links Highland, by connections with other trails, with Porter County to the east.[13]
Education
The School Town of Highland is the town’s public school system, which operates Highland High School, which was established in 1957, as well as a middle school and four elementary schools. The area where the former Main School once stood is marked by a gazebo, which was demolished in October 2006 and rebuilt in 2007. It and the surrounding land are named Main Square Park after the now-defunct school that stood on the site until 1977. One of the other defunct schools, Lincoln Elementary, was converted into a community center in the early 1980s. The other, Orchard Park Elementary, closed in 1981 and was later purchased and reopened as a Calumet Baptist School in the early 1990s.
- List of schools – School Town of Highland
- Highland High School
- Highland Middle School
- Judith Morton Johnston Elementary School
- Mildred Merkley Elementary School
- Southridge Elementary School
- Allen J. Warren Elementary School
Highland also contains three private schools. Highland Christian School was founded in 1909 and has been in its present building and location since 1951. Our Lady of Grace School was founded in 1954 and is run by the Diocese of Gary. There is also Bible Baptist School that operates on the site of the former Orchard Elementary School.
Colby Dental
Address: 2704 45th St, Highland, IN 46322
Call: +1 (219)-924-2736
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