Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: English summary Nordic oral hygiene theme – some reflections, comments and general statements Nor Tannlegeforen Tid. 2025; 135: 134-8. This paper summarises the content of 11 papers published in the Nordic Dental Journals, focusing on various aspects of the impact of oral hygiene on maintaining a healthy mouth. Dental caries, gingivitis and periodontitis can be managed by addressing common risk factors. For preventing/ managing periodontal diseases dentists are advised to follow recommendations of the European Federation of Periodontology. Sugar restriction and use of fluoride are essential for caries control. Brushing twice daily with an age-appropriate amount of fluoridated toothpaste is still recommended. Fluoridated mouth rinses, and local applications of fluoride are recommended for high-risk individuals. Fluoride-free toothpaste cannot yet be recommended. Schools may be used as an arena for oral health activities. Interdental brushes are more effective than floss for biofilm removal. Antibacterial strategies should be considered only for short-term use and the evidence that mouth rinses reduces halitosis is low. No definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding the long-term outcomes on the biofilm induced diseases by using electric versus manual toothbrushes . To improve the oral health status for elderly vulnerable people, more active collaboration between dental professionals and the care staff is needed. Instructions for mechanical biofilm removal should focus on both being effective and gentle, the latter to avoid harmful effects on oral tissues. Teledentistry solutions may be an additional strategy in controlling biofilm induced diseases in the future.
DOI: 10.56373/2025-2-8
Language: English
Subfield: Periodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4407549207