Читать книгу Basic Guide to Oral Health Education and Promotion - Alison Chapman - Страница 11

Oral health is central to our general wellbeing. The health of the body begins with the oral cavity, since all our daily nutrients, beneficial or otherwise, pass through it.

Knowledge in the field of oral health changes rapidly, with developments in scientific research, products and technology, and policy. Patients therefore need trained oral health educators (OHEs) and promoters who have the latest knowledge in the field to help prevent and control dental conditions and diseases. It is also vital that dental care professionals (DCPs) and health professionals consistently promote the same messages to avoid confusion, and ultimately improve and maintain oral health within the population.

This book covers the theoretical and practical aspects of oral health education and promotion and is the course companion for UK dental nurses studying oral health education. It is also aimed at dental hygienists, therapists, and dentists who regularly promote and practise oral health education and require up‐to‐date, evidence‐based knowledge. Other professionals, such as health visitors, nurses, dieticians, midwives, and teachers will also find the book invaluable.

Each chapter deals with various aspects of oral health in logical order, and includes learning outcomes, detailing what the reader (particularly students) should have learned by the end of each chapter.

After reading this book, the reader should be able to:

 Confidently educate patients about diseases and conditions that affect the oral cavity; their prevention, treatment, and management.

 Plan and undertake a lesson on an oral health topic to an individual and a group.

 Provide a very brief intervention on smoking and alcohol, and signpost patients towards specialist support.

 Give basic advice on diet, nutrition, and exercise.

 Set up a preventive dental unit and an exhibition on an oral health topic.

 Be aware of the wider context of oral and health education and promotion in society.

 Use knowledge gained to help pass a qualification in oral health education.