Oral health promotion: Right person, right time prevention

Abstract

Dental decay is one of the most common conditions affecting children in the UK; but it can be prevented with a balanced diet and good oral hygiene. Often, this advice comes too late, with many families only registering with a dentist when problems have occurred. Research has shown that health visitors who provide appropriate dental advice can have a huge impact on children's dental and overall health. This article aims to provide evidence-based preventive advice to support health visitors with dental interventions.