Essay On Periodontal Disease

You know the feeling you get when you hit puberty, you are in the eighth grade and almost ready for high school. Appearance is the most important to you at this moment in your life. During mid-eighth grade, my friends and I decided that we were going to get braces. We had our parents set up consultations, It was an exciting time for us in anticipation of having beautiful straight teeth. sadly, my excitement would soon come to a halt. At the young age of 14, I was diagnosed with juvenile periodontal gum disease. The diagnosis of periodontal disease was a new concept that I could not truly comprehend. All I knew and cared about was that I could not have braces. Needless to say, I was devastated. Now, seven years, many deep cleanings, and a few
I have learned so much about my gum disease. I was initially very confused because looking at the causes of periodontal disease, I couldn't understand how it happened to me. I brushed my teeth twice a day and flossed; all the things I was taught to do. In further research, I discovered several risk factors; Smoking, diabetes, and/or genetic susceptibility. Soon after my diagnosis, I was informed that my grandmother also has the same gum disease and is currently undergoing various forms of dental hygiene treatments. Knowing this, dental hygiene became more than an interest, it is a passion fueled by my personal experience on the other side of the chair. As a result of my personal and family experience, I have developed a passion for furthering my education to help others off-set this disease through educating others on the importance of oral hygiene. To play a part in someone else's experience as they battle gum disease will allow me to feel as though my experience was for a purpose and that purpose to help others and share my story. Attending Dental Hygiene School is the chance of a lifetime and I do not want to let this opportunity pass me by. I am determined and enthusiastic at this