[Prophylactic measures in general dental practice. An inquirly on their state and frequency]

Questionnaires concerning the type of oral examinations and preventive measures used in private practice were sent to 500 randomly selected dentists in the german-speaking part of Switzerland. 300 were returned completed, the majority of these anonymously. In the examination of new patients, bite-wing radiographs were the most commonly used diagnostic aid. This was reported in 60% of the offices--more often by younger than by older pracitioners, more frequently in urban than in rural offices and more often in surgeries treating less than 12 patients a day. Concerning oral restauration itself, the most frequently frequently reported procedures were the treatment of clinically visible carious lesions, polishing and the replacement of defective fillings. A broad spectrum of prophylactic oral hygiene aids were reported. Toothbrush and dental floss combined with oral hygiene instruction, however, were still the most commonly used. There was considerably correlation between the type of prophylactic acids used and the type of the dental practice. According to the questionnaires, fluoride prophylaxis is very regulary carried out and recommended. The ways in which this fluoride prophylaxis is carried out differs from practice to practice. Nutritional prophylaxis counseling was considered in the majority of the offices irrespective of the type of office. Relatively little emphasis was placed upon cooperation of the patient. From the questionnaries we calculated a need for about 550 DH for Switzerland. Younger dentists mentioned this need relatively moe often than older practitioners. A recall system was used in 70% of the practices, whereby annual and semi-annual intervals were reported with equal frequency. It is obvious that the emphasis placed upon prevention is not the same in all practices. This statement is valid also for the carious and periodontal diagnostic measures utilized. Much work as well as maybe a certain resignation resulting from previous failures may prevent the dentist from instituting more preventive measures in his practice. It is obvious that the graduates of the new dental hygiene school can help in this regard. However, because as yet these new graduates cannot supply even one half of the 550 required hygienists, it is discussed whether or not dental chair-side assistants with special training could motivate our patients toward a more satisfactory oral hygiene.