Irish dentists encouraged to quiz patients during examinations
Irish dentists have been urged to quiz patients about dental health during examinations in a bid to improve education and raise standards of oral health.
Dr David Winkler, president of the International Federation of Esthetic Dentistry, addressed members of the Irish Dental Association and encouraged dentists to involve patients in dental care. According to Dr Winkler, patients must take more responsibility for their oral health.
To improve education and ensure patients know about oral hygiene, healthy eating and visiting the dentist, dentists will now be encouraged to ask patients about their dental IQ during initial consultations. This method will enable dentists to determine the patient’s standards of oral hygiene and address any issues that arise from the consultation; many people are unaware of the consequences of poor oral hygiene and the link between diet and oral health and this will help dentists to ensure people have the necessary information to look after their teeth and gums properly.
Dr Winkler also said it was important to let patients know what can and cannot be done in terms of treatment; patients should be aware so that they do not have unreasonable expectations of what can be achieved in their individual situation.
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in relation to the last paragraph, 50% of our dental patients are not entitled to government funding for their oral health. wakey wakey dr.winkler.