Improving Patient Well-Being as a Broader Perspective in Dentistry

Area of Science:

• Integrative health
• Dental public health
• Patient-centered care

Background:

• Patient well-being is multidimensional, including physical, mental, psychological, and social health.
• Oral health significantly impacts overall quality of life through function, self-perception, and social interaction.
• Current dental practice often focuses on symptoms rather than a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review strategies for enhancing patient well-being within the dental setting.
• To highlight the link between oral health and comprehensive patient quality of life.
• To advocate for a broader role of dental professionals in promoting general health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review summarizing existing research and best practices.
• Analysis of the relationship between oral health and various aspects of patient well-being.
• Identification of potential expansions in dental scope of practice.

Main Results:

• Oral health is integral to overall well-being and quality of life.
• Expanding dental practice to include preventative health screening and general health education is beneficial.
• Enhanced communication and interprofessional collaboration improve care continuity.

Conclusions:

• The dental profession can significantly contribute to patient well-being by adopting a whole-person, patient-centered approach.
• Integrating general health promotion into dental care empowers patients and unifies health professions.
• Further exploration of implementation barriers and cost-effectiveness is warranted.