Dental Public Health Specialists

This specialism is concerned with prevention rather than cure. It aims to improve the dental health of the UK population which will have a positive effect on their quality of life as a whole.
We know how important it is to look after our teeth and that by doing so we can avoid long term damage. Regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, dental floss and a mouthwash plus twice yearly check ups are all good preventative measures.

Neglecting our teeth can result in tooth decay and gum disease, both of which are common in children and adults alike. But these are preventable and a dental public health programme aims to educate people about the importance of good oral health.

Our dental health is affected by a variety of factors which include the environment, behavioural and socialisation. These all influence the way we view oral health and the level of importance.

So if we are looking to change people’s behaviour in a positive manner so that they will understand the importance of oral health then education is of prime importance. People can be resistant to change or dislike being lectured about their lifestyle so the challenge is to do this without being seen to preach.

There is a sizeable number of the population who never visit a dentist for a variety of reasons. They may suffer from dental phobia or cannot find an NHS dentist in their area. They may feel that dental treatment is too expensive or simply cannot be bothered. These are the people that need to be engaged with and this is where a well thought out dental public health programme can help.

Someone will be appointed to undertake this task and they will usually be a consultant who works with Local Health Authorities and the NHS executive. They may also work in academia. A postgraduate qualification in Dental Public health is also required.

They do not carry out dental treatment: their remit is to assess the oral health of the nation and to see if current services meet those needs.

Dental Specialists Guide Index:

• Dental and maxillofacial radiology Specialists
• Dental public health Specialists
• Endodontic Specialists
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology Specialists
• Oral medicine Specialists
• Oral microbiology Specialists
• Oral surgery Specialists

• Orthodontic Specialists
• Paediatric dentistry Specialists
• Periodontic Specialists
• Prosthodontic Specialists
• Restorative dentistry Specialists
• Special care dentistry Specialists