The role of the dental team in promoting dental health and general health through oral health.
The two major dental diseases are related to diet and dirt. These are common risk factors for a number of chronic diseases. A logical approach to the prevention of chronic diseases is to focus on risk factors rather than on specific diseases, a common risk factor approach using health promotion. Health promotion is the process of enabling individuals and communities to increase control over the determinants of health and thereby improve their health. The concepts incorporated in health promotion include a promotion of health through public policy, creating supportive environments, developing personal skills, strengthening community action and reorienting health services. The dental team should incorporate the following principles: integration with general health education, encouraging participation of the community, the public and staff in the planning process; making healthy choices the easier choices. By adopting a Common Risk Factor Strategy incorporated into Primary Health Care, dental teams can promote dental health and general health. The latter objective will be achieved by reducing pain and suffering related to dental diseases. A much broader remit for dental teams is outlined, one which will do justice to the abilities and training of all members of the team.