Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) evidence-based recommendations guide infection control practices in dental offices nationally and globally; provide direction for the public, dental health care personnel (DHCP) and policymakers; and affect technology development in the dental industry.

CDC DentalCheck is developed directly from the Infection Prevention Checklist for Dental Settings. DHCP can use this app to periodically assess practices in their facility and ensure they are meeting the minimum expectations for safe care. The infection prevention coordinator and other staff trained in infection prevention are encouraged to use this app at least annually to assess the status of their administrative policies and practices, and engage in direct observation of personnel and patient-care practices.

While the information included in this app reflects existing evidence-based guidelines produced by the CDC, it is not intended as a replacement for more extensive guidelines.

Key Features

• Check Yes/No to acknowledge compliance with a list of administrative policies or observed practices

• Summary of basic infection prevention principles and recommendations for dental health care settings

• Ability to export results for records management

Provides links to full guidelines and source documents that users can reference for more detailed background and recommendations.

CDC DentalCheck is an innovative online tool developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to empower individuals with personalized oral health information. This comprehensive platform provides users with tailored guidance, interactive assessments, and evidence-based resources to promote optimal oral hygiene practices and maintain healthy smiles.

Personalized Oral Health Assessment

The cornerstone of CDC DentalCheck is its personalized oral health assessment. Users complete a brief questionnaire that gathers information about their oral hygiene habits, dietary choices, and dental history. Based on these inputs, the tool generates a customized report that highlights areas of strength and areas for improvement.

The report includes detailed insights into:

* Oral Hygiene Practices: Evaluation of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash usage frequency and effectiveness.

* Dietary Habits: Assessment of sugar consumption, acidic food intake, and overall nutritional status.

* Dental History: Review of past dental visits, treatments, and any existing oral health conditions.

Interactive Tools and Educational Resources

Beyond the personalized assessment, CDC DentalCheck offers a suite of interactive tools and educational resources to enhance oral health literacy. These include:

* Brushing Simulator: A virtual toothbrush that demonstrates proper brushing techniques and allows users to practice their skills.

* Flossing Simulator: An interactive guide that illustrates effective flossing methods and provides tips for overcoming common challenges.

* Nutrition Library: A comprehensive database of foods and beverages, including their sugar content and potential impact on oral health.

* Oral Health Glossary: A user-friendly reference that defines key dental terms and concepts.

Evidence-Based Guidance

All information and recommendations provided by CDC DentalCheck are grounded in the latest scientific evidence. The tool draws upon research conducted by the CDC and other reputable organizations to ensure that users receive accurate and up-to-date oral health information.

Promoting Healthy Habits and Preventing Oral Disease

CDC DentalCheck is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain optimal oral health throughout their lives. By promoting healthy habits, such as regular brushing, flossing, and nutritious eating, the tool helps users reduce their risk of developing common oral diseases, including:

* Tooth decay: Erosion of tooth enamel caused by bacteria that feed on sugar and acids.

* Gum disease: Inflammation and infection of the gums, which can lead to tooth loss.

* Oral cancer: A serious disease that affects the mouth, tongue, and throat.

Empowering Individuals, Improving Oral Health

CDC DentalCheck is a valuable tool for individuals of all ages who seek to improve their oral health. Its personalized assessment, interactive tools, and evidence-based guidance empower users to make informed decisions about their oral hygiene practices and maintain healthy smiles for life.