Oral Health

Question 1

Discuss the prevalence and sequelae of oral disease. Identify the predominant bacterial species involved in dental caries.

Answer 1

• Among children aged 6 to 8 years, over half 52% have had a cavity in their primary (baby) teeth
• Among adolescence aged 12 to 19, more than half 57% have had a cavity in their permanent teeth
• Bacteria in dental plaque (strep. Mutans and lactobacilli) on susceptible tooth surfaces and fermentable carbohydrates
• 45,000 new cases of oral cancer annually

Question 2

List the factors influencing the development of dental caries.

Answer 2

• bacteria (Streptococcus mutans)
• tooth quality
• carbohydrates

Question 3

role of the primary care clinician in promoting oral health.

Answer 3

I– USPSTF states “no sufficient evidence to recommend for or against routine (oral cancer) screen

Question 4

Recognize the relationship between oral & systemic disease

Answer 4

undiagnosed/untreated:

• May contribute to systemic disease (CAD)
• Costly procedures
• Undue pain and antibiotic use
• In pregnancy (hormones increase likelihood of gingivitis)
• Loss of confidence
• Adverse health outcomes- eating difficulties