Patient Education and Preventive Dentistry Flashcards

The Fones (circular) toothbrushing method is MOST appropriate for which patient population?

Answer: Young children learning to brush

The Fones method uses simple circular strokes and is recommended for young children due to its ease of learning.

Which xylitol mechanism contributes to its anti-caries effect?

Answer: It is non-fermentable by oral bacteria, starving them of energy

Xylitol cannot be fermented by S. mutans, depriving cariogenic bacteria of usable substrate and reducing their growth and adhesion.

A patient presents with white-spot lesions on smooth surfaces. What is the MOST appropriate preventive intervention?

Answer: Increased fluoride application and dietary counseling

White-spot lesions are early demineralized enamel that can remineralize with fluoride therapy and dietary modification without operative intervention.

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is used in caries management primarily for which purpose?

Answer: Arresting active carious lesions without drilling

SDF arrests active caries by killing cariogenic bacteria and hardening demineralized dentin, making it ideal for high-risk or medically complex patients.

The CAMBRA (Caries Management by Risk Assessment) model categorizes patients into risk levels to guide treatment. A patient with active white spots, high S. mutans, and low salivary flow is placed in which category?

Answer: Extreme risk

In CAMBRA, a patient with multiple risk indicators—active lesions, high bacterial load, and salivary dysfunction—is classified as extreme risk.

Which behavior change theory emphasizes that a patient must perceive a health threat as severe AND feel susceptible before taking preventive action?

Answer: Health Belief Model

The Health Belief Model posits that perceived susceptibility and perceived severity of disease are prerequisites for health-promoting behavior.