Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Occupational Dentistry

Occupational dentistry in healthcare is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral and dental disorders related to work and the workplace. It involves the assessment of oral health risks and the implementation of strategies to prevent or control oral disease in the workplace.

The main goal of occupational dentistry is to protect the oral health of workers and improve their overall well-being. This includes providing education and training on oral hygiene, implementing workplace policies and procedures to promote oral health, and providing preventive and restorative care to workers who have oral health problems.

Occupational dentistry in healthcare can be divided into two main areas: primary and secondary prevention. Primary prevention focuses on preventing oral and dental disorders from developing in the first place, while secondary prevention focuses on early detection and treatment of oral and dental disorders.

Examples of primary prevention strategies include providing oral hygiene education and supplies, promoting healthy lifestyles, and implementing workplace policies to reduce risk factors for oral and dental disorders.

Examples of secondary prevention strategies include providing regular dental check-ups, screenings, and treatments, as well as providing emergency care in case of injury or illness.

Occupational dentistry plays an important role in promoting oral health and reducing the impact of oral diseases in the workplace, which in turn improves the overall health and productivity of workers.