This can be achieved by a range of methods, but similar principles apply to all. Regular exposure to fluoride maintains a concentration in the plaque biofilm that encourages remineralisation of the tooth surface. For example, moving from brushing once a day to twice a day lowers an individual’s risk of developing dental caries by 14% (2). There is abundant evidence that increasing fluoride availability to individuals and communities is effective at reducing dental caries levels ( Chapter 2: Table 1 Chapter 4). The decline of dental caries worldwide over recent decades is largely attributed to the daily use of fluoride toothpaste (1). Since then fluoride has become more widely available, most notably in toothpaste, and recognised as having improved oral health in the UK. The link between fluoride in public water supplies and reduced levels of dental caries was first documented early in the last century. In Scotland the guidance will be used to inform oral health improvement policy.įluorides are widely found in nature and in products such as tea, fish, beer and in some natural water supplies.
Whilst this guidance seeks to ensure a consistent UK wide approach to prevention of oral diseases, some differences in operational delivery and organisational responsibilities may apply in Wales, Northern Ireland and England.
This guidance is issued jointly by the Department of Health and Social Care, the Welsh Government, the Department of Health Northern Ireland, Public Health England, NHS England and NHS Improvement and with the support of the British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry.ĭelivering Better Oral Health has been developed with the support of the 4 UK Chief Dental Officers.
0 kommentar(er)
