The Internation Federation of Dental Hygienists

#UPWARD - With a Global View in All We Do!

IFDH

Prevention & Treatment

WHITE PAPER SERIES

The intent of the IFDH White Paper series is to provide a global perspective on the multi-faceted impact of dental hygienists.  When possible, the role of dental therapists, oral therapists and oral health therapists will be explored.  Each paper reviews a specific topic of interest for dental hygiene practice and includes evidence-based information to promote quality care. 

This IFDH White Paper identifies roles for dental hygienists in prenatal oral health care and discusses opportunities and strategies for them to promote oral health for pregnant patients in clinical, community, and educational settings. While this is not a clinical guideline about prenatal oral health practice, we discuss current challenges in integrating dental hygienists into primary health care systems and opportunities for integration.

Sustainability is a growing priority in healthcare, including oral health. This paper explores the role dental hygienists play in promoting environmentally conscious practices while maintaining high standards of patient care. It highlights strategies for reducing waste, conserving resources, and advocating for sustainable initiatives in dental settings.

The key to reducing oral disease is found in prevention. This paper explores the current financial impact of oral disease and its cost to individuals and society. It will demonstrate the cost effectiveness of prevention and the essential role of primary oral healthcare providers in achieving a reduction in oral disease globally.

  • Behavioral Change
    • Author: Jean Suvan, RDH, MSc, PhD
  • Aging & Oral Care
    • Author: Sandra Ribeiro Graca, BDH, MEd, PhD
  • Oral Health for Medically Challenged Patients
    • Author: Deborah Manne, MSN, RN, RDH
  • Cost Effectiveness of Prevention
    • Author: Wanda Fedora, RDH