Explaining caries Flashcards
what should you start off by explaining
what a normal tooth looks like
what type of disease is caries
multifactorial
what are the factors that contribute towards caries
time
bacteria
carbohydrates
how would you explain tooth decay to a pt
hole in tooth
what would you refer to caries as to the patient
tooth decay
explain fully how you would describe caries as to a pt
a normal tooth has enamel surface on top of dentine, the enamel is intact in a normal tooth. When tooth decay (caries) occurs bacteria feeds on sugar from the food we are eating creating acid. The acid then causes the enamel surface to become more soft and overtime tooth decay occurs. If not treated this can lead to holes in the teeth called cavities
what can you do to make sure the pt is understanding what youre explaining
ask if they understanding so far
ask if they have any questions
bring pictures to show examples
use internet for diagrams
direct pt to a website such as colgate/oral b for videos that explains what caries is
leaflets
what do you want to avoid when explaining
using jargon
what can you do to show the pt the extent of their caries
show them their radiograph and explain
what should you include in your discussion about prevention
tooth decay is reversible if caught early
oral hygiene advice (show pt physcially/w application)
diet advice (complete diet analysis)
limit snacking to 3x a day
make sure pt attends their appointments and is regularly getting check ups
fissure sealents?
what things could cause the pt to have caries that isnt bacteria
predisposition such as salivary deficiency
what should you do throughout
reassure pt
what should you do if caries is deep
explain what may happen
what do you need to gain before starting tx
consent
what should you end off apt with
summary of key points
ask pt if they have any questions or to get in contact if they think of any
