Preventive and community dentistry

This chapter outlines caries development, progression, and prevention as well as the role of saliva in neutralizing harmful acids in the oral environment. The action of fluoride is also discussed including appropriate doses, supplementation, professional application, and toxicity. Evidence for the role of sugar in dental caries is then described. This chapter has an emphasis on preventative dentistry including the use of fissure sealants in varying age groups, going on to highlight the importance of diet assessment and modification in high caries-risk patients. The chapter also discusses dentistry for people with disabilities and has a section on different types of dental care professionals.