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
Dental nurses have an important role in advising parents on children’s oral health. Hazel Coey outlines the main, evidence-based health messages and suggests how nurses should present them so they are taken on board
Dental sensitivity may be caused by tooth decay, a cracked tooth, worn tooth enamel, worn fillings, and tooth roots that are exposed as a result of aggressive toothbrushing, gum recession and periodontal disease. This article explores prevention and treatment strategies for combating dental sensitiv
Keeping manual instruments sharp benefits both patients and practitioners. Helen Westley describes some manual instruments, explains why they need to be kept sharp and compares systems for sharpening instruments
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