Motivating patient’s to brush and floss their teeth
We all hear the importance of brushing and flossing teeth at least twice a day, but many people skip brushing and flossing, which is a crucial factor for good oral health, explains a general dentist in Dubai. Brushing as well as flossing helps adults and children, maintain the highest level of oral health possible because plaque, bacteria and other food particles can be removed from hard-to- reach places in-between the teeth. If these hard-to-reach areas are not cleaned properly, one can develop tooth decay in-between the teeth and will be more susceptible to tooth loss or require other dental procedures such as root canals.
Most Dental clinics in Dubai can take it upon themselves and motivate patients to brush and floss their teeth regularly in many different ways and emphasize the importance of both, brushing and flossing of teeth. The following are methods in which the family dentist in Dubai creates awareness and motivates patients to brush and floss regularly,
- Informative – Patients need to understand the importance of brushing and flossing, and being informed and educated on the subject would encourage them further to have good oral care routines. Most patients do not understand the imperative nature of brushing or flossing. Different printed material and informational flyers would be a great resource for patients to learn about the role of brushing and flossing. This is a very effective method that can be used to create awareness among children as well. In addition, when the dentist examines a patient’s teeth and it’s not evident that brushing and flossing is happening the way it should, the dentist should educate the patient about the benefits and importance of brushing and flossing. Having the dentist speak with an individual directly would likely encourage more brushing and flossing, as the patient will recognize the expertise of the dentist and pay attention to his suggestion. Once patients know more about the benefits of brushing and flossing and detriments from a lack thereof, they are more likely to share the information with the rest of the family as well.
- Tooth Decay – No person would want their teeth to be harmed or experience tooth decay on purpose. It is important that both patient’s young and old understand that neglecting to brush and floss teeth makes them more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay. Dental offices must show all patient’s pictures of the benefits of brushing and flossing. For instance, a healthy smile with bright and clean teeth and healthy gums could be juxtaposed with a picture of teeth with yellow stains in between and tooth decay. Patient’s should know the disadvantages of neglecting oral hygiene, which is likely to motivate them to brush and floss and prevent any irreversible damage to their teeth and smile.
- Provide extra dental favors – This motivational strategy is good for a dental center in Dubai who has an influx of younger patients, especially very small children. If the child appears to have very healthy gums and teeth from frequent brushing and flossing, then the dentist should offer small incentives such small toys, games, or stickers as positive reinforcement for them to continue their oral hygiene routine.