DBOH

DBOH Toolkit Overview

The DBOH toolkit (Delivering Better Oral Health toolkit) is a practical guide designed by Public Health England (PHE) for dental professionals to promote oral health. This comprehensive resource offers evidence-based advice and strategies to improve the oral health of patients.

Oral Health Principles

The toolkit emphasizes the prevention of oral diseases such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. It advocates for patient-centered care and the integration of oral health into overall health strategies.

Key Recommendations

Toothbrushing and Fluoride

Dental professionals are encouraged to use fluoride toothpaste with a concentration of 1,350-1,500 ppm for adults and to recommend brushing teeth twice daily, especially before bedtime.

Dietary Advice

It is recommended to reduce both the frequency and amount of sugar intake and to avoid sugar-containing snacks between meals.

Preventive Care

For high-risk patients, the application of fluoride varnish should be performed 2-4 times a year, and sealants should be applied to molar teeth in children and adolescents.

Smoking and Alcohol

The toolkit also encourages providing advice and support for reducing smoking and alcohol consumption to lower the risks of oral cancer.

Life-Stage Specific Guidance

Children and Young People

For this group, the focus is on early prevention, promoting good oral hygiene practices, and fluoride varnish applications.

Adults and Older Adults

Routine dental checkups are important, particularly for those with additional health risks such as diabetes or individuals taking medications that can cause dry mouth.

Pregnant Women

The toolkit highlights the importance of maintaining oral health for both the mother and the baby during pregnancy.

Professional Interventions

The DBOH toolkit emphasizes the dental team’s role in facilitating behavior change through preventive advice. It encourages collaborative work with other health professionals to provide holistic care.

Implementation Tools

Patient-friendly resources for education on oral health, along with templates and checklists, are provided to assist in integrating oral health advice into daily dental practice.

Supporting Public Health Goals

The toolkit aligns with national health policies aimed at reducing inequalities in oral health, focusing on reaching underserved or vulnerable populations.

Overall, the DBOH toolkit equips dental professionals with actionable steps to integrate prevention-focused care, ultimately supporting improved long-term oral health outcomes across the population.