Opportunities for prevention: more than 'just the mouth'.

Abstract

This paper has been written by two dentists from Colombia who are currently waiting to take the International Qualifying Examination. They have been working as dental nurses in London and have gained insights into both NHS and non-NHS practice in London. They have a particular interest in preventive dentistry and have analysed recent developments in England with regard to the prevention of disease and oral disease in primary care. They propose a preventive approach which brings together recent policy developments in the United Kingdom and worldwide. They conclude that there are now potentially better opportunities than ever before to develop programmes to promote health and prevent oral disease, and to adopt a team approach to achieve these goals.