World Oral Health Day: How Can Dentists Make A Difference?

As World Oral Health Day approaches on 20th March, it's the perfect moment to reflect on the pivotal role dentists like you play in enhancing public oral health. Beyond clinical duties, dentists are uniquely positioned to influence their communities positively, champion preventive care, and address oral health disparities.

By adopting practical and achievable strategies, you can empower your patients and foster a culture of proactive oral health this World Oral Health Day.

1. Advocate for Preventive Care

Preventive care is the cornerstone of dentistry. Regular check-ups, early interventions, and patient education can significantly reduce the incidence of oral diseases.

However, a survey revealed that only 34% of oral health professionals consistently offer preventive care advice to patients, with time constraints cited as a primary barrier1.

To enhance preventive care:

  • Integrate brief advice sessions: Dedicate a few minutes during each appointment to discuss oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and the benefits of fluoride use.
  • Utilise educational materials: Provide brochures or digital resources that reinforce the importance of preventive measures.
  • Leverage technology: Implement reminder systems for regular check-ups and cleanings, encouraging patients to maintain their oral health routines.
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2. Engage with the Community

Community engagement is vital in promoting oral health awareness and accessibility. Consider the following approaches:

  • Collaborate with local schools: Offer educational sessions or workshops to instil good oral hygiene habits in children. School-based programs are a great way of reaching vulnerable children who suffer from oral health inequity.
  • Participate in health fairs: Set up informational booths or offer free oral health screenings during community events.
  • Partner with care homes: Provide training for staff on proper oral care techniques for the elderly, ensuring residents receive adequate daily mouth care2.

3. Address Oral Health Inequalities

Oral health disparities persist across different socioeconomic groups in the UK/Ireland.

As dental professionals, you can help to bridge this gap: 

  • Offer flexible payment options: Implement payment plans or sliding scales to accommodate patients from diverse financial backgrounds. 
  • Cultural competency training: Enhance your team's understanding of different cultural practices and beliefs related to oral health, ensuring respectful and effective communication.

4. Promote Collaboration

Oral health is intrinsically linked to overall health. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals can lead to comprehensive patient care:

  • Work with general practitioners: If possible, establish straightforward, well-communicated processes for referring patients between your practice and the local GP practices, making it easier for patients to navigate care when oral health issues may signal or exacerbate medical conditions.
  • Engage with dietitians and pharmacists: Develop joint initiatives to educate patients on the effects of diet, smoking, and alcohol on oral health.
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Stay Informed to Strengthen Patient Care

Staying up to date with the latest research, public health initiatives, and policy changes is essential for dentists who want to support their communities. Understanding shifts in dental services, new guidelines on preventive care, or developments in water fluoridation can help dentists offer patients the most accurate advice and advocate for improvements in care through day-to-day conversations.

Engaging with professional bodies, reading industry publications, and attending relevant workshops are simple ways to stay informed — ensuring that dentists can confidently guide patients and contribute to a healthier, more informed public.

1https://cgdent.uk/2023/11/30/new-research-reveals-the-missed-opportunity-of-preventative-oral-care/

2https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/adult-oral-health-applying-all-our-health/adult-oral-health-applying-all-our-health

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