Oral health
27Jun

Our relationship with food goes beyond simply nourishing our bodies. The choices we make on our plates can significantly impact our oral health. However, a sea of misinformation surrounds food and its influence on our smiles. In this blog, Heathmont Dentist will help you debunk some common myths and shed light on the realities of how food choices impact your pearly whites.

Myth #1: Sugar is the Sole Culprit for Cavities

Fact: While sugar is certainly a risk factor, it’s not the only enemy of healthy teeth. Cavities are caused by a complex interplay of factors, including:

  • Bacteria: The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches, producing acid as a byproduct. This acid erodes tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
  • Frequency of Consumption: Constant snacking, even on healthy foods, creates a more acidic environment in your mouth, increasing the risk of enamel erosion.
  • Type of Food: Sticky and sugary foods can linger on your teeth for longer periods, allowing bacteria more time to produce acid.

While limiting sugar intake is crucial, be mindful of the frequency of your snacks and the types of food you consume.

Myth #2: Acidic Fruits Damage Teeth Like Candy

Fact: Fruits are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health, including oral health. While some fruits are acidic (like citrus fruits), they generally contain other components, such as water and fibre, that can help neutralise the acid and stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralise oral acidity.

Fruits can be part of a healthy oral care routine. Consume fruits in moderation and rinse your mouth with water after eating them to minimise any potential risks.

Myth #3: Hard Foods are Detrimental to Teeth

Fact: Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery can be beneficial for your teeth. These foods act as natural toothbrushes, promoting saliva production and helping to remove plaque buildup.

Include hard fruits and vegetables in your diet, but be mindful of very hard foods like nuts and shells, which can crack or chip teeth.

oral health

Myth #4: Chewing Gum is a Replacement for Brushing

Fact: Sugar-free chewing gum can be a helpful tool, but it’s not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Chewing gum can stimulate saliva production, which helps to wash away food particles and neutralise oral acidity. However, it doesn’t remove plaque buildup as effectively as brushing and flossing.

Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can be a beneficial addition to your oral hygiene routine, but it shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing twice daily.

Myth #5: Starchy Foods Don’t Contribute to Cavities

Fact: Starchy foods like bread, pasta, and crackers break down into sugars in the mouth, which can be fuel for cavity-causing bacteria. Just like sugary foods, frequent snacking on starches can increase the risk of cavities.

Be mindful of your starch intake and prioritise brushing your teeth after consuming starchy foods.

The Truth About Snacking: Frequency Matters Most

A common misconception exists that certain foods are inherently detrimental to teeth. The reality is that the frequency of snacking and the length of time food particles remain on your teeth are more significant factors. Here’s why:

  • Constant Snacking: Continuously exposing your teeth to food throughout the day allows bacteria more opportunities to produce acid and erode enamel.
  • Time for Acid Attack: The longer food particles stay on your teeth after eating, the longer bacteria have to produce acid.

Practise good oral hygiene routines like brushing after meals and snacks, and try to limit snacking between meals.

Building a Smile-Friendly Diet

Here are some tips for building a diet that promotes a healthy smile:

  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs for healthy teeth and gums.
  • Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods: While occasional indulgence is okay, make these foods a treat, not a staple.
  • Choose Water Over Sugary Drinks: Water is the best beverage for overall health and oral hygiene. Sugary drinks can contribute to cavities and erosion.
  • Fibre is Your Friend: Fibre-rich foods like fruits and vegetables can help stimulate saliva production and remove food particles.
  • Calcium Power: Calcium is crucial for strong teeth. Include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and calcium-fortified foods in your diet.

Conclusion

Maintaining a healthy smile requires a multi-pronged approach. While a balanced diet plays a crucial role, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental checkups remain essential practices. Understanding the realities behind food myths can empower you to make informed choices that not only benefit your overall health but also contribute to a healthy, beautiful smile. Remember, a healthy smile is a happy smile!

tooth enamel
27Jun

We all know sugar is the enemy of healthy teeth, but there’s another silent threat lurking in your diet: acid. Acidic foods and drinks, while often refreshing or delicious, can erode tooth enamel, the hard outer layer protecting your teeth. This erosion can lead to a multitude of problems, from sensitivity to full-blown cavities. In this blog, Baywater Dentist will help you understand the impact of acidic foods and drinks on dental enamel is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile.

The Science of Enamel Erosion

Tooth enamel, the visible white part of your tooth, is the strongest substance in the human body. However, it’s not invincible. Acidic foods and drinks can disrupt the delicate balance in your mouth, leading to enamel erosion. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

  1. The pH Scale: Everything you consume has a pH level, indicating its acidity or alkalinity. A neutral pH is 7. Substances below 7 are acidic, while those above 7 are alkaline (basic).
  2. Acid Attack: When you consume acidic foods or drinks, the pH level in your mouth dips. This acidic environment weakens the mineral structure of tooth enamel.
  3. Demineralization: The weakened enamel loses calcium and phosphate minerals, its building blocks. This process is called demineralization.
  4. Enamel Erosion: With continued exposure to acid, the demineralization process accelerates, leading to the gradual erosion of tooth enamel.

Common Culprits: The Acidic Attackers

Many seemingly harmless foods and drinks pack an acidic punch that can damage your enamel:

  • Sodas and Sports Drinks: These sugary beverages are often highly acidic, a double whammy for your teeth.
  • Fruit Juices: While containing vitamins, many fruit juices are naturally acidic, especially citrus juices.
  • Coffee and Tea: While not as acidic as some beverages, coffee and tea can contribute to erosion, especially when consumed frequently or with added sugars.
  • Wine: Both red and white wines are acidic, and the tannins in red wine can also stain teeth.
  • Pickles and Other Acidic Foods: Pickled vegetables, vinegar-based salad dressings, and certain fruits like grapefruit can be acidic.
enamel

Consequences of Enamel Erosion

The erosion of tooth enamel doesn’t happen overnight, but the consequences can be significant:

  • Sensitivity: As the enamel weakens, the underlying dentin layer of the tooth is exposed, leading to sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
  • Discoloration: Enamel erosion can cause teeth to appear yellow or translucent, impacting your smile’s aesthetics.
  • Increased Risk of Cavities: Weakened enamel provides less protection against bacteria, making teeth more susceptible to cavities.
  • Cracked or Fractured Teeth: Severely eroded enamel can increase the risk of cracked or fractured teeth.

Protecting Your Smile: Strategies for Minimising Acid Damage

Fortunately, you can take steps to minimise the acid’s impact on your teeth:

  • Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Reduce your overall consumption of acidic beverages and foods. Consider water or unsweetened tea as healthier alternatives.
  • Rinse with Water: After consuming acidic beverages, rinse your mouth with water to help neutralise the acid and remove residual sugar.
  • Wait Before Brushing: Don’t brush your teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks. The acid can soften enamel, making brushing more abrasive. Wait at least 30 minutes to allow saliva to neutralise the acid before brushing.
  • Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals or acidic drinks stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralise oral acid.
  • Strengthen Your Enamel: Certain toothpastes formulated for sensitive teeth can help strengthen enamel. Consult our Boronia dentist for recommendations.
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily for two minutes and flossing daily removes plaque and food debris, reducing the risk of cavities.
  • Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to allow our dentist to monitor your teeth for signs of erosion and address any potential problems early on.

Additional Tips

  • Use a straw: When consuming acidic drinks, use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth.
  • Cheese Power: Eating cheese after an acidic meal can help stimulate saliva production and neutralise oral acid.
  • Fluoride is Your Friend: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel. Use fluoridated toothpaste, consider fluoride rinses as recommended by our dentist, and maintain regular dental checkups for professional fluoride treatments.

Conclusion

While acidic foods and drinks can be part of a balanced diet, being mindful of their impact on your oral health is crucial. By adopting these strategies and prioritising good oral hygiene practices, you can minimise the risk of enamel erosion and maintain a healthy, strong smile for years to come.

Link Between Sugary Drinks and Tooth Decay
26Jun

Sipping on a sugary soda or indulging in a juice box might seem like a harmless pleasure, but for your teeth, these beverages can be a silent enemy. The link between sugary drinks and tooth decay is undeniable, and understanding this connection is crucial for maintaining good oral health.

In this blog, Kilsyth South Dentist delves into the science behind this detrimental relationship, exploring how sugary drinks contribute to cavities and offering practical tips to minimise their impact on your smile.

The Science of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a common dental problem affecting people of all ages. It occurs when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches from food and drinks, producing acid as a byproduct. This acid erodes the tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth, creating cavities – tiny holes in the teeth.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

  1. Sugar Feast: When you consume sugary drinks, the sugar sticks to the surface of your teeth, creating a sugary film called plaque.
  2. Acid Attack: Bacteria in plaque thrive on this sugar buffet and produce acid as waste.
  3. Enamel Erosion: Over time, the acid produced by bacteria begins to erode the tooth enamel, the protective barrier of your teeth.
  4. Cavity Formation: If the enamel weakens sufficiently, it creates a cavity, a hole in the tooth.

Why Sugary Drinks are Particularly Damaging

Sugary drinks pose a greater threat to your teeth compared to sugary foods for several reasons:

  • Prolonged Exposure: Unlike solid foods, which can be chewed and cleared from your mouth relatively quickly, sugary drinks linger in the mouth for extended periods, allowing bacteria more time to produce acid and attack your teeth.
  • Acidity: Many sugary drinks, including sodas, fruit juices, and sports drinks, are acidic themselves. This acidity further exacerbates the acid attack caused by bacteria, accelerating enamel erosion.
  • Hidden Sugars: Be wary of “healthy” sounding drinks like fruit juices. While they contain vitamins, they can also be high in natural sugars, posing the same threat to your teeth as other sugary beverages.
Link Between Sugary Drinks and Tooth Decay

The Consequences of Untreated Tooth Decay

Ignoring cavities can lead to a cascade of problems:

  • Pain and Sensitivity: As cavities progress, they can cause toothaches and sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
  • Infection: If left untreated, cavities can become infected, leading to tooth abscesses and potential bone loss.
  • Dental Procedures: Extensive tooth decay often requires fillings, crowns, root canals, or even tooth extraction, which can be expensive and time-consuming.

Minimising the Damage

The good news is that you can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay from sugary drinks by adopting these practices:

  • Limit Sugary Drinks: Reduce your overall consumption of sugary beverages. Opt for water as your primary drink of choice.
  • Drink Water After Sugary Drinks: Following a sugary drink with water helps rinse away residual sugar from your mouth.
  • Brush and Floss Regularly: Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles.
  • Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food debris and neutralise oral acid.
  • Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Visit our dentist in Boronia for regular checkups and cleanings to detect and address any potential problems early on.

Beyond Sugary Drinks

While sugary drinks are a major culprit in tooth decay, other factors can also contribute:

  • Frequency of Snacking: Frequent snacking, even on healthy foods, can provide a continuous supply of fuel for bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities.
  • Certain Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva flow, a natural defence against cavities.
  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up and bacteria to thrive, leading to tooth decay.

Conclusion

Sugary drinks are a significant contributor to tooth decay, but by being mindful of your consumption and adopting healthy oral hygiene habits, you can minimise their impact on your smile. Remember, water is the best beverage for your overall health, including your oral health. Make informed choices about your drinks, prioritise a good oral hygiene routine, and maintain regular dental visits to keep your smile healthy and bright.

Dental Care for People with Weak Immune Systems
26Jun

A healthy smile is essential for everyone, but for individuals with weakened immune systems, maintaining good oral hygiene becomes even more crucial. A compromised immune system reduces your body’s ability to fight off infections, and the mouth, teeming with bacteria, can become a battleground.

This blog The Basin Dentist will help you to explore the importance of dental care for people with weak immune systems, offering valuable tips for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing complications.

Understanding the Connection

The mouth is a gateway to the body, harbouring hundreds of different types of bacteria. While most of these bacteria are harmless, some can cause problems when the immune system is weakened. Here’s how compromised immunity can impact oral health:

  • Increased risk of infections: People with weak immune systems are more susceptible to oral infections like gum disease and tooth decay. These infections can further weaken the immune system, creating a vicious cycle.
  • Slow healing: Following dental procedures, healing may be slower for individuals with compromised immunity. This is because the body’s natural defence mechanisms are less effective in fighting off potential infection after surgery or other interventions.
  • Oral complications from medications: Certain medications used to treat various conditions that weaken the immune system can have side effects that impact oral health. These side effects may include dry mouth, which can increase the risk of cavities, or thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth.

Common Conditions Affecting Immunity

Several conditions can compromise the immune system, making dental care even more important:

  • HIV/AIDS: This virus directly attacks the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to oral infections.
  • Cancer and cancer treatment: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy can weaken the immune system and affect oral health.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the immune system and increase the risk of oral complications.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes can make the body more susceptible to infections, including those in the mouth.
  • Organ transplantation: Medications used to prevent rejection after organ transplantation can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of oral problems.
Dental Care for People with Weak Immune Systems

Preventive Dental Care Strategies

By prioritising preventive dental care, individuals with weak immune systems can significantly reduce the risk of oral health complications. Here are some key strategies:

  • Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings, ideally more frequently than every six months, depending on your specific needs. This allows for early detection and intervention of any potential problems.
  • Meticulous Oral Hygiene: Maintain a meticulous oral hygiene routine at home. Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between teeth. Consider using an antiseptic mouthwash as an additional measure.
  • Antibacterial Rinse: Our Boronia dentist may recommend using an antibacterial mouthwash as part of your daily routine to help control harmful bacteria in the mouth.
  • Dietary Modifications: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Focus on a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support overall health and immune function.
  • Dry Mouth Management: If you experience dry mouth due to medications, consult our dentist for strategies to manage this side effect. Artificial saliva sprays or sugar-free lozenges can help keep your mouth moist and reduce the risk of cavities.

Communication and Collaboration

Open communication and collaboration between our dentist and your primary healthcare provider are vital for optimal dental care. Here’s what this collaboration entails:

  • Medical history disclosure: Inform our dentist about your weakened immune system and any medications you’re taking. This helps them tailor their approach and screen for potential complications.
  • Pre-treatment considerations: Before any dental procedures, discuss potential risks and benefits with our dentist and primary health care provider. Certain procedures might require antibiotic prophylaxis (preventive antibiotics) to minimise the risk of infection.
  • Post-operative care: Following dental procedures, follow our dentist’s instructions regarding post-operative care meticulously to promote optimal healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Additional Considerations

Here are some additional points to keep in mind for optimal dental care with a weak immune system:

  • Travel with dental hygiene essentials: Always pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and any prescribed mouthwash when travelling.
  • Inform new dentists: Inform any new dentist you visit about your weakened immune system and medical history.
  • Avoid elective dental procedures during illness: Postpone any non-essential dental procedures if you’re feeling unwell.

Conclusion

While a weakened immune system presents additional challenges for maintaining oral health, prioritising preventive care and collaborating closely with your healthcare team can significantly reduce the risk of complications. By adopting a meticulous oral hygiene routine, scheduling regular dental checkups, and maintaining open communication with our dentist and doctor, you can ensure a healthy smile and contribute to your overall well-being.

Helping Children Overcome Fear of the Dentist
26Jun

For many children, a trip to our Wantirna South dentist can be as scary as facing a dragon. Unfamiliar sights, sounds, and potential discomfort can trigger anxiety and apprehension. However, a healthy smile is crucial for a child’s overall well-being. Luckily, there are numerous strategies to help your child overcome their fear of our dentist, setting them on a path to positive dental experiences.

Understanding the Fear

The fear of our dentist, also known as dentophobia, is a common childhood anxiety. Several factors can contribute to this fear:

  • Unfamiliar environment: Dental offices can feel clinical and intimidating for children. The sights and sounds of dental equipment may seem strange and scary.
  • Loss of control: During dental procedures, children may feel a loss of control, which can be anxiety-provoking for some.
  • Pain anticipation: Children might associate dental visits with potential discomfort from needles or instruments.
  • Negative experiences: Previous negative dental experiences, even if minor, can leave a lasting impression and fuel fear in future visits.

The Importance of Early Dental Care

Despite the fear, establishing good dental hygiene habits early on is crucial for a child’s overall health and well-being. Regular dental checkups allow for early detection and prevention of cavities and other oral health problems.

By addressing their fear of our dentist early, you can help your child develop a positive and proactive approach to dental care throughout their lives.

Strategies for Success

Several approaches can effectively ease your child’s anxiety and create a positive dental experience:

Start Early:

  • Introduce dental care concepts early: Even before your child’s first tooth erupts, you can introduce them to the concept of oral hygiene through playful activities like brushing a soft doll’s teeth.
  • Schedule “well-baby” visits: Many paediatric dentists offer “well-baby” visits for young children. These visits focus on familiarising children with the dental environment and building rapport with our dentist, creating a positive first impression.
child dental care

Positive Reinforcement and Communication

  • Talk about the dentist in a positive light: Avoid using negative language or phrases associated with dental visits. Focus instead on the importance of healthy teeth and the dentist’s role in keeping their smile bright.
  • Role-play the dental visit: Practise a mock dental visit at home using a stuffed animal as the patient. This can help your child feel more prepared and in control.
  • Read children’s books about going to the dentist: Several children’s books address the topic of dental visits in a fun and informative way.
  • Offer rewards for bravery: Positive reinforcement can create a sense of accomplishment and motivate your child. Rewards can be simple, like a sticker or a small toy, after a successful dental visit.

Creating a Comfortable Environment

  • Prepare for the visit beforehand: Talk to your child about what will happen during the appointment and answer any questions they have honestly. Allow them to bring a comfort item like a stuffed animal for additional support.
  • Distraction techniques: During the visit, distraction techniques can help your child focus on something other than the procedure. Singing songs, telling stories, or watching a favourite show on a tablet can be effective tools.
  • Be present and supportive: Your presence and emotional support can significantly comfort your child during the dental visit. Hold their hand, offer words of encouragement, and celebrate their bravery.

Additional Tips

  • Limit negative stories or experiences: Avoid sharing your own negative dental experiences with your child.
  • Focus on the benefits: Emphasise the importance of healthy teeth for eating their favourite foods and having a bright, confident smile.
  • Be patient and understanding: Overcoming fear takes time. Be patient with your child and avoid pressuring them.
  • Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how small.

Conclusion

With a combination of preparation, positive reinforcement, and a supportive environment, you can help your child overcome their fear of our Boronia dentist. By establishing a positive association with dental care early on, you’re getting your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles and confident visits to our dentist.

Oral Health
26Jun

Stepping into our dentist’s office can be nerve-wracking for many people. Unfamiliar surroundings, potential discomfort during procedures, and anxieties about treatment costs can all contribute to patient apprehension. In this environment, clear and effective communication from dentist Ferntree Gully plays a crucial role in easing patient concerns and fostering a trusting relationship.

Effective communication goes beyond simply relaying information. It’s about creating a dialogue that addresses patient fears, builds trust, and empowers them to make informed decisions about their oral health. Here are some key strategies dental professionals can use to enhance communication and ease patient anxieties:

Active Listening and Empathy

The foundation of effective communication is active listening. This means paying close attention to a patient’s verbal and nonverbal cues. Listen attentively as they describe their concerns, anxieties, and past dental experiences. Validate their feelings with empathy, acknowledging their nervousness or apprehension. Phrases like “I understand that this can be stressful” or “It’s common to feel anxious about dental procedures” can go a long way in building rapport.

Clear and Concise Language

Avoid using complex medical jargon that might confuse patients. Explain dental procedures and treatment options in clear, easy-to-understand language. Break down complex concepts into smaller, more manageable pieces of information. Use visuals like diagrams or animations to enhance understanding.

Transparency and Informed Consent

Be transparent about the treatment process, including potential risks, benefits, and alternative options. Explain treatment costs upfront and answer any questions regarding insurance coverage. When discussing treatment options, present the information in a balanced and unbiased way, allowing patients to make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Setting realistic expectations about the treatment experience is crucial. Discuss potential discomfort levels associated with different procedures and explain pain management techniques used. Be honest about the timeline for treatment and potential follow-up appointments.

Role of Communication in Easing Patient Concerns

Addressing Specific Concerns

Many patients have specific anxieties about dental procedures. Some may fear needles, others may have had negative past experiences. Actively listen to these concerns and address them directly. Offer reassurance and explain how the dental team will work to minimise discomfort during the procedure.

Nonverbal Communication

Effective communication goes beyond words. Maintain positive body language with good eye contact, a warm smile, and an open posture. Project a calm and reassuring demeanour to help ease patient anxiety.

Empowering Patients

Knowledge is power. Provide patients with educational materials regarding dental procedures, oral hygiene practices, and post-treatment care. Empowering patients with knowledge allows them to take an active role in their oral health journey.

Multiple Communication Channels

Communication shouldn’t be confined to the dental chair. Utilise various communication channels to connect with patients. Offer appointment reminders and follow-up instructions via email or text messages. Maintain a user-friendly website with informative content about dental procedures and FAQs.

Fostering a Welcoming Environment

The overall atmosphere of the dental office plays a significant role in patient anxiety. Create a welcoming and comfortable environment with calming colours, soothing music, and a clean and organised space. Offer amenities like blankets, headphones, or stress balls to help patients relax during their visit.

Building Trust and Long-Term Relationships

Effective communication is an ongoing process. Build trust with patients over time by demonstrating genuine care and concern for their well-being. Listen to their feedback, address their concerns promptly, and celebrate treatment milestones. By fostering a trusting relationship, patients are more likely to maintain regular dental appointments and prioritise their oral health.

The Benefits of Effective Communication

Strong communication skills benefit both dental professionals and patients. Here are some key advantages:

  • Reduced Patient Anxiety: Effective communication can significantly reduce patient anxiety and apprehension, leading to a more positive dental experience.
  • Improved Treatment Outcomes: When patients understand their treatment options and feel involved in the decision-making process, they are more likely to follow through with recommended care, leading to better treatment outcomes.
  • Increased Patient Satisfaction: Clear communication fosters trust and builds stronger patient relationships, resulting in increased patient satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Enhanced Practice Reputation: A reputation for excellent communication translates to positive patient reviews and referrals, leading to a thriving dental practice.

Conclusion

Effective communication is an essential skill for all dental professionals. By actively listening to patients, addressing their concerns, and providing clear and concise information, dental professionals can create a more positive and anxiety-free dental experience. Remember, the power of words can significantly impact patient perception and contribute to long-term oral health success. In The Smile Clinic – Boronia Dental Clinic our dentist effectively communicates with patients and helps them to guide about the oral treatment suitable for them.