Prevention, oral hygiene and patient guidance
The preventive work at the chair
Construction fall
§Why prevention works
Caries and gum problems are linked to plaque buildup that is allowed to remain. When the patient learns to remove plaque effectively and limit what feeds it the risk falls. Prevention is therefore concrete and something the patient can influence.
§The key messages
- 01Good tooth brushing that actually removes plaque.
- 02Cleaning between teeth where the brush can't reach.
- 03Attention to sugar and frequent snacks.
- 04Regular inspections so small problems are caught early.
§Show rather than just tell
It works best to show the technique and let the patient try rather than just telling them. Concrete friendly guidance suited to the patient's daily life and age is remembered better than a wagging finger.
§Meet the patient where they are
A child a busy adult and an elderly person with dentures have very different needs. Tailor the message and be encouraging — praise what already works and suggest one or two concrete steps rather than overwhelming.