Why we must act now

The importance of oral health prevention has never been greater. At its core, oral health prevention is a way to help people keep their mouths healthy and if advice is followed, it could prevent tooth decay and gum disease – both of which are on the rise in the UK. In some cases, it can also reduce the risk of developing mouth cancer, as well as assist in the early detection of it through regular dental check-ups, ultimately saving people’s lives.

While the recent Labour Party statements around supervised toothbrushing are welcomed, there is more we can do as dental professionals to lead the way and further aid prevention – such as working with vulnerable groups such as carers and elderly residents in residential care homes. The aftermath of covid left many patients with high treatment needs, and with access to care at crisis point, we need to come together as dental care providers to improve the way the general population receive prevention advice and how they can access oral health initiatives in their areas.