The scope of a Dental Therapist covers the scope of a Dental Hygienist, the British Association of Dental Therapists not only promotes dental therapy but also dental hygiene throughout the association. This is why we have partnered up with Acteon UK in conjunction with the British Society of Periodontology to endorse Acteons Fight Perio Campaign.

Fight Periodontal Disease Campaign, are you willing to make the pledge?

Jo Dickinson RDH FAETC, Hygienist

Jo Dickinson; dental hygienist explains the importance of managing Periodontal Disease.

The WHO is very concerned regarding the impact of periodontal disease on the health of nations worldwide. Periodontal disease affects nearly half of the adult population in the UK. However, periodontitis is both preventable and treatable. The cost of both is relatively low in view of the impact it could have on the healthcare budgets of many countries, including the UK.

With a growing momentum in awareness of the importance of periodontal health, there is likely to be an increase in demand for treatment and information regarding prevention. The scientific rationale is that by controlling periodontal disease, we will be improving the general health of the nation; and additionally we can expect to see that patients will be encouraged by their medical teams to attend for periodontal health assessment.

Periodontitis is classed as a chronic non-communicable disease and is sixth on the table of the most prevalent disease worldwide. Chronic non-communicable diseases such as cardio-vascular disease (CVD) and diabetes are putting a huge burden on healthcare services and their associated costs. As more research emerges supporting the fact that periodontal disease may well be a contributor to other chronic non-communicable diseases, it would now be prudent to see public health promotion programmes and integrated medico/dental strategies carried out at a national and local level.

Partners, working together

Acteon believe in collaborating/supporting the dental team in developing their patient care. As our understanding of dental science evolves, the technology to treat and prevent is also developed. In the spirit of the EFP Manifesto, Acteon are pleased to launch their new periodontal campaign and would like to know if you would be willing to make the pledge?

Diagnosis of periodontal disease could possibly provide opportunity for referral and diagnosis of other systemic disease at an early stage. Helping patients grasp their role in disease prevention and taking responsibility for their oral health is a difficult and sensitive subject. The use of highly developed technology such as Soprocare can assist in diagnosis and education of patients. Soprocare is an intra oral camera that uses light frequency to aid diagnosis of dental caries and tissue inflammation. Highly pixelated images can then be shown to patients on the computer screen and then saved as part of the patient clinical notes. Reports and bespoke home-care plans can then be produced either electronically or on paper, to be shared with the patient and/or other healthcare providers. Video footage is possible, allowing demonstration of oral hygiene procedures to be captured. Mature plaque is also differentiated by the varying light frequency and its relationship with inflammation in the adjacent tissues becomes very obvious.

By having access to the latest technology, dental clinicians can not only provide the highest quality of clinical care but also are able to share data and clinical reports with other medical care providers.

To start the movement within your practice, sign up for your FREE ‘Fight Perio Campaign’ Pack by visiting Acteon UK:
http://acteonpromotions.co.uk/fight-perio/