SHDC Team | Kristel | Dental Hygienist and Therapist

How long have you been working at SHDC?

6 months

Why do holistic health and dentistry interest you?

When treating my patients, I consider their oral health to play a vital role in their general health. The mouth is the “gateway” to the rest of the body. Hence, it must be cared for and maintained in order to achieve optimal health.

What does an initial consultation with you cover?

We discuss the crucial relationship between oral and general health. If needed, we alter the patient’s daily oral hygiene accordingly to ensure effective plaque control and that the correct tools are being used e.g. the right toothbrush, correct flossing technique and floss, interdental brushes and oil pulling.

Furthermore, we discuss the patient’s diet, medical history (systemic conditions that can impact their oral health), sleeping habits, breathing patterns, head and neck muscular/joint activity and other behaviours they may have such as teeth grinding and/or clenching.

Is there a particular area of health that interests you?

In addition to completing my Bachelor in Oral Health at Sydney University, I have attended the International Association of Orthodontic conferences in Los Angeles and Florida, where I was exposed to observing, diagnosing and treating head/neck pain, airway issues and sleep disorders in both adults and children.

Do you have a favourite health tip?

Walk whenever possible, drink water and sleep well – it’s free!

Do you follow any particular diet?

I enjoy Paleo eating – lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whilst minimising processed foods, gluten and sugar. It has taught me to avoid starving the body of nutrition.

What exercise do you do?

I enjoy walks and runs on the beach. It is a great way to stay active whilst absorbing important vitamin D and breathing in some much needed fresh air. It does wonders for my frame of mind.

What do you get up to on the weekends?

Staying active on the beach and fishing with my husband.

What was the last book you read? Did you like it? What did you like about it?

Grain Brain: The surprising truth about wheat, carbs and sugar“. The majority of modern diets discuss weight loss as their main goal, however little is thought about in terms of brain health. This book provides an insight on how the foods/drinks I consume on a daily basis affects the health of my brain. As Thomas Edison quotes:

The chief function of the body is to carry the brain around.

It has certainly influenced my priorities when selecting foods for myself and my family in order to keep our minds sharp long-term.

What do you love to create in the kitchen?

I am fond of making my own organic Acai bowl. It is quick, easy and great for breakfast or lunch:

1. Mix in a blender organic acai with blueberries, banana and pomegranate.
2. When finished place acai mix in a bowl with organic chia seeds, goji berries, shredded coconut and mixed activated nuts.
3. Enjoy!