Role of Pharmacists in Oral Health I

Question 1

Briefly explain the impact of oral conditions on public health services

What is the proper response to this?

Answer 1

Oral conditions affect roughly half of the world’s population, forming a significant global burden of disease, which will have a major impact on both the health and economy of nations.
Public health services may face a severe challenge to their ability to maintain an adequate health service.

The response to this mounting burden of disease is for health services to focus on preventing disease by incorporating health promotion into existing services.

Question 2

Mention 3 classes of drugs that may reduce saliva production, alter the oral microbiome, and increase the risk of dental caries and oral infections.

Answer 2

1. Antihistamines
2. Antipsychotics
3. Antidepressants

Question 3

Mention 7 aspects of oral health education (proper oral hygiene practices)

Answer 3

1. The best time to brush the teeth: twice a day after breakfast and before bed.
2. Toothbrush replacement
3. Duration of brushing
4. Correct brushing technique
5. Choosing the right toothbrush
6. Choosing the right toothpaste
7. Choosing the righ tmouthwash

Question 4

How do you counsel a patient on brushing:
- after breakfast
- before bedtime

Answer 4

• Brushing after breakfast dislodges food particles and plaque that may have accumulated overnight, and freshens the mouth for the day ahead.
  If, however, acidic foods or drinks are consumed for breakfast, allow a gap of 30 minutes before brushing to prevent enamel erosion.
• Brushing before bed removes the day’s build up of plaque, food particles and bacteria, preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
  This is particularly impotant because saliva production decreases during sleep, making the mouth more susceptible to bacterial overgrowth and plaque formation.

Question 5

Recommendation for replacing toothbrush

What are the recommendations you would make to a patient on replacing their toothbrush?

Answer 5

Toothbrush should be replaced every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed or worn.

Replace after recovering from an illness to prevent the risk of reinfection.

Replace of if there’s dicolouration of bristles, accumulation of debris or any odour.

Question 6

Length of time/Correct way to brush teeth

• What is the recommended duration for brushing teeth?
• Briefly describe the effective brushing technique.

Answer 6

The recommended duration is approximately 2 minutes.

Brushing Technique:
1. Divide mouth into 4 quadrants and spend 30 seconds on each quadrant
2. Using gentle circular motion, clean the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of the teeth
3. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to clean gums
4. Brush tongue to remove bacteri and freshen breath.

Question 7

Choosing the right toothbrush

Dental professionals recommend using a ____ toothbrush.

The benefits of this toothbrush include:

Answer 7

Soft-bristled toothbrush

Benefits:
1. Gentle on gums and enamel
2. Better for sensitive teeth
3. Effective cleaning
4. Prevents gum recession

Question 8

Highlight the potential issues with hard-bristled toothbrushes.

Answer 8

• Gum damage
• Enamel wear
• Less comfort

Question 9

African chewing sticks are also called:

Answer 9

Miswak, Siwak or Pako

Question 10

Mention 8 advantages of using African chewing sticks.

Answer 10

1. Antibacterial properties: contains natural antibacterial compunds, such as alkaloids, tannins and essential oils
2. Mechanical cleaning: The fibrous nature of the chewing sticks mechanically clean the teeth, preventing tartar build-up.
3. Natural whitening: The gentle abrasive nature of the sticks helps to remove stains from the teeth.
4. Strengthens gums: Chewing on the sticks improves blood circulation and strengthens gums. Anti-inflammatory properties also reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
5. Freshens breath: Eliminates odour-causing bacteria and essential oils and natural compounds act as natural breath fresheners
6. Accessibility and convenience: Cost-effective alternative, and doesn’t require toothpaste, making it suitable for on-the-go oral hygiene.
7. Chemical-free: Free of synthetic chemicals and preservatives, also biodegradable and eco-friendly
8. Easy to use: Requires only cheing and doesn’t require water, making it suitable for areas with limited water access.

Question 11

Cite 3 pieces of scientific evidence supporting the use of chewing sticks for oral health

Answer 11

• Antibacterial Efficacy: Research indicates that chewing sticks possess significant antibacterial properties that help control oral pathogens.
• Plaque Reduction: Studies show that chewing sticks are effective in reducing plaque and improving gum health.
• Comparison with Toothbrushes: Some studies suggest that chewing sticks can be as effective, if not more, than traditional toothbrushes in maintaining oral hygiene.

Question 12

How frequently should a dental check-up be done?

Answer 12

Every six months

Question 13

Describe 5 factors that influence the frequency of dental check-ups.

Answer 13

1. Oral health status: good oral health require less frequent visits, while poor oral health, those with a history of dental problems, need more frequent visits
2. Age: children may need to visit the dentist more often to monitor the development of their teeth and ensure proper oral hygiene habits. Older adults might require more frequent visits due to age-related dental issues, such as dry mouth, tooth wear, and gum disease.
3. Medical Conditions: Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, which can affect oral health, may need more frequent dental check-ups.
   Pregnant women are more prone to gum disease and might need additional dental care.
4. Lifestyle Habits: smokers are at a higher risk for gum disease and oral cancer, necessitating more frequent dental visits. A diet high in sugars and acids can increase the risk of cavities, requiring more regular dental monitoring.
5. Personal Oral Care: individuals who do not maintain proper oral hygiene might need more frequent dental visits.

Question 14

Describe how different diets impact oral health.

Answer 14

1. Sugar: Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars from foods and beverages, producing acids that attack tooth enamel and cause cavities.
2. Acidic Foods and Drinks: Foods like citrus fruits and drinks like soda and wine can erode enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
3. Calcium and Phosphorus: Foods rich in calcium (such as dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds) and phosphorus (found in meat, fish, and eggs) help remineralize and strengthen tooth enamel.
4. Vitamins and Minerals:
   i. Vitamin D: Helps the body absorb calcium effectively, supporting strong teeth and bones.
   ii. Vitamin C: Essential for healthy gums and soft tissues in the mouth. A deficiency can lead to gum disease.
   iii. Magnesium and Zinc: Important for overall dental health, supporting the structural integrity of teeth.
5. Water: Drinking water, especially fluoridated water, helps wash away food particles, reduce
   mouth acidity, and prevent dry mouth
6. Fibrous Foods: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally by stimulating saliva production and scrubbing away plaque.
7. Tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
8. Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can dry out the mouth, reduce saliva flow, and
   increase the risk of oral cancer