Supercharging patients’ oral hygiene routines

The Dentist talks to Benjamin Tighe about why managing gingivitis using plaque control measures is key to successful preventive care, as are personalised care plans.

As a practising dental therapist and an educator, what do you think is the key to ensuring optimal patient care in today’s society?

BT: I think optimal care comes from bespoke care. It’s that one-to-one focus, treating each patient as an individual, getting to know that patient, eventually understanding someone’s lifestyle. You need to get away from this template idea. For example, with twice-daily brushing because, although it is part of the gold standard regimen, it doesn’t fit into everyone’s lifestyle for a variety of reasons. It might eventually, but it can take time. So, our advice and the care we give must be personalised to each individual

If plaque management is the required focus, what are the barriers and how can dental professionals help their patients to achieve improved outcomes?