Preventive Dentistry Overview

Preventive Dentistry

• Dentistry aims to prevent dental cavities
• It's a collaborative effort between dentist, hygienist, and patient.
• Key preventative methods: Fluoride and fissure sealants.

Fluoride

• Systemic fluoride: Water fluoridation, Dietary fluoride supplements
• Topical fluoride: Self-applied (toothpaste, mouth rinse, gels), Professionally applied (Fluoride varnish, prophylaxis paste, gels/foams).
  • Water fluoridation adjusts fluoride levels in water, optimal for dental health. Recommended level is 0.7 milligrams per liter.
  • Dietary fluoride supplements are prescribed for children with high caries risk (ages 6 months - 16 years). Dosage varies by age.
  • Various forms of fluoride supplements exist (drops, tablets, lozenges, chewing gum).
  • Topical fluorides, like toothpaste and mouthwash, offer self-applied protection against cavities. Professionally applied topical fluorides include fluoride varnishes and prophylaxis pastes. These are more potent than self-applied fluoride products.

Fluoride Gel Application

• Professionally applied fluoride gels are used, available in varied colors/flavors.
• Gel is placed in a tray, inserted into the patient's mouth, and held for 1 minute.
• The patient should avoid eating/drinking for 30 minutes afterward.

Fluoride-Containing Prophylaxis Paste

• Used after calculus removal (scaling)
• Reduces tooth sensitivity
• 1st layer blocks 55% of dentinal tubules
• 2nd layer blocks 85% of dentinal tubules

Fluoride Varnish

• Used to close dentinal tubules
• Reduces sensitivity due to fluoride content
• 1st layer blocks 55% of dentinal tubules
• 2nd layer blocks 85% of dentinal tubules

Fissure Sealants

• Used to protect deep pits and fissures in children's permanent teeth (not carious).
• Application steps:
  • Clean the tooth
  • Etch the tooth for 15 seconds, then wash and dry
  • Apply the fissure sealant
  • Cure with a light for 20-30 seconds.

Importance of Regular Dental Visits

• Regular visits are crucial for evaluating tooth and gum health.
• Children learn preventative measures and proper oral hygiene habits.
• Early detection of oral health problems (e.g., cavities, gum disease) is crucial. Factors to evaluate during a visit include loose teeth, cavities, gum health, bite habits, diet and health history and fluoride use.

Explore the essential aspects of preventive dentistry, focusing on the significance of fluoride in cavity prevention. This quiz covers both systemic and topical fluoride methods, alongside the collaboration needed between dental professionals and patients. Test your knowledge on key preventative measures for maintaining dental health.