Boyd Simkins, DDS: No relevant disclosure to display
Caries risk assessment has been a subjective tool that is difficult for both parents and practitioners to adopt, analyze and implement. Adding a simple chairside salivary screening can help to open both parent and practitioner eyes to oral as well as systemic health. In addition to awareness, this same test can be used to show trends in salivary markers for efficacy of programs implemented within dental practices to achieve health. We no longer have to wait for disease to manifest but can start truly preventing disease before it happens. Dentistry needs to be on the frontline of health in regards to children and this simple tool can be part of the launching pad.
Learning Objectives:
Show parents and patients objective data showing their risk for oral and overall health issues.
Start assessing patients for more comprehensive collaboration with our medical colleagues.
Create microbiome focused prevention/treatment protocols for their patients.
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