This article describes how preventive encounters in dental practice can be most effective if each of the characters involved play their part. It describes the attitudes, knowledge and skills that an optimally effective clinical team need to have and what patients may bring to preventive encounters
Dental decay is the most common preventable childhood disease. Oral health educator for the British Dental Health Foundation, Karen Coates, discusses the importance of establishing good oral health routines for children and why encouraging parents should be top of the priority list
Traditional orthodontic appliances have carried the stigma of being unsightly and uncomfortable for the patient. Thankfully, modern orthodontic solutions encourage people to receive the treatment they need, with systems designed to offer pleasing aesthetics and optimal oral hygiene maintenance
A number of systems and techniques are used in dental implant therapy. Having a basic knowledge of the different types of implant and the procedures around their placement will enable nurses to work with dentists using different systems
Clinical photographs and simulated images can be used to help communicate with your patients and colleagues. They show patients the potential and actual effects of many types of procedures, encourage take-up of treatment and provide records
Oral care is an essential area of care for older people in the nursing home. Beth Young gives guidance on providing a basic assessment tool and daily protocol
Carole Boyle and Sam Koburunga outline common mental health problems, how these conditions affect managing adult patients in the dental surgery and how dental nurses can assist these patients to access care and comply with treatment
Our bodies' immune system protects us from disease and infection. However, when one has an autoimmune disease, the immune system attacks itself in error, and the body turns on itself. This article outlines the cause, symptoms and treatment of autoimmune disease
The GDC has confirmed that ‘oral cancer: improving early detection’ is to be included as a ‘recommended’ topic in its CPD scheme. Claire Herbert, Head of Revalidation at the GDC, discusses the benefits of this decision
A combination of patients keeping their teeth longer due to more preventative approaches and advances in materials and techniques has led to an increase in incidence of tooth wear. This article describes the incidence, causal agents, lifestyle factors and how tooth wear can be identified and prevent
Behavioural approaches to the delivery of oral healthcare have the potential to improve oral health and reduce social inequality. This article describes the application of health behaviour change principles in a general dental practice. Theory is translated into practice through practical examples o
Dentistry is undergoing a revolution. The ability to see a patient's teeth and jaws in all three dimensions is now talked about in every sphere of dentistry. What is this technology? What can it do?
Major dental conditions of caries and periodontal disease can both be reduced by regular toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste. The fluoride in toothpaste serves to prevent, control and arrest caries. In this article, Robin Davies discusses the strength of evidence to support the use of fluoride to
.jpg?width=150&height=100&scale=canvas)
