PLAQUE CONTROL IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

The emergence of a new philosophy and dentistry based on prevention rather than repair and replacement have been one of the most significant developments in the history of dentistry. Growing concerns about health and quality of life have encouraged people to adapt healthy lifestyles, a combination of oral hygiene instructions, mechanical and chemical professional tooth cleaning at proper intervals can almost completely prevent the development of plaque formation, dental caries and periodontal diseases. Dental caries is an infectious disease, in which sugar present in plaque together with cariogenic bacteria can produce the disease under certain environmental conditions. Hence, there is increasing interest in the use of sweetening agents which confer sweetness but are safer for teeth. Sugar substitutes play an important role in shifting the caries process in favour of maintaining dental health. Thus, oral health care workers should persuade and educate their patients to adopt special dietary programs followed by maintenance of good oral hygiene by mechanical and chemical professional means.