Despite revolutionary advances in all fields of dentistry, a critical factor in the success of any treatment program is patient compliance. A number of factors are involved in encouraging and ensuring cooperative patients, including a thorough assessment of a patient’s medical, dental, and social history and any related fears or phobias. In addition, effective communication is vital in motivating and educating patients about their dental needs. This course examines the roles all of these play in ensuring patient compliance, reviews the literature regarding oral hygiene programs, and addresses the particular compliance issues involved in specialty fields, such as orthodontics and esthetic dentistry.

While there have been moderate improvements in caries incidence and prevalence in the United States, caries is still a problem particularly in certain population groups. Both home care and in-office topical products are available for caries prevention. There are a number of traditional in-office options available including the use of fluoride gels and foams, rinses, and sealants. Since the 1990s fluoride varnish has also been available in the U.S. and is cleared by the FDA for use as a desensitizer. Innovative caries preventive agents include the use of products containing ACP and CPP-ACP. It is important to first conduct a risk assessment for patients to determine their need for fluoride applications, and then to select preventive products suitable for the patient.

Tooth whitening removes intrinsic and extrinsic staining. Many tooth-whitening options are currently available, including in-office treatments and home-use products that can be office-dispensed or purchased over the counter. Each type of treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages. Management of potential side effects such as tooth sensitivity and gingival irritation must be considered and managed if necessary. Tooth whitening is safe, effective and desired by patients in our esthetically conscious society.