Prevention vs. Risk Management

Prevention is a common term used in dentistry. It commonly refers to things like applying fluoride to re-minerlize teeth and scaling the calculus off your teeth to prevent periodontal disease. What’s odd about this picture? While these services are usually regarded as preventive, they are really disease management services.

In the past, I would have regarded these services as secondary prevention. In other words, the disease has already started and we are trying to minimize the damage. Primary prevention is preventing the disease process from even starting. To avoid confusion, I now think the term “Risk management” is a better way to describe primary prevention. What do you think?

Here are a few of the ‘’risk management” services that we provide and encourage.
- microscope analysis of dental plaque to determine its toxic potential
- Oravital medicated rinses to control the bad bacteria and minimize periodontal disease and breath odour
- Encourage everyone to use high quality nutritional supplements including vitamins, mineral and antioxidants. Omega 3 supplementation is also recommended.
- Nara tooth powder (baking soda, salt and xylitol) is excellent after dry brushing. Of course, floss and soft pics for cleaning and exercising the gums.
- Our computerized breath analyzer to sniff out problems before your friends do!
- Dental Currents to keep you up to date with new information!

Remember, the real risk manager is you. We can only provide support in your efforts to enhance your health and wellness.

Yours for better dental health,
Dr. Ken

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