The article deals with trends in dentistry, with particular emphasis on trends in Slovenia. The demographic situation in Slovenia and the world is changing. The number of old and very old people is increasing, as it is in Slovenia people aged over 65 as much as 15% and it is expected that the number will increase. With age also increases the number of people with neoplastic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes and mental illness. All of these diseases and their treatments also affect oral health. Also, the diseases of the oral mucosa, gingival and tooth affect systemic health. The article presents some results on the incidence of diseases of the oral mucosa, oral cancer, periodontal disease and caries and their evolution in recent decades with us. The close relationship of oral and systemic health suggests the need for a holistic and prevention-oriented dental patient treatment, including an evaluation of the systemic health, assessment of risk factors and a thorough review of the oral mucosa, periodontal tissue, teeth and orthodontic anomalies. The changing demographic situation and the accompanying systemic and oral pathology will also require customized training and human resources planning in dentistry. The paper shows the state of dentists, oral hygienists, dental technicians and dental nurses in our country and in Europe. Already, we can conclude that there is such a large number of dental workers will not stem oral pathology and its consequences, if the prevention of diseases of the oral cavity will not include every individual and society as a whole.
F.02 Acquisition of new scientific knowledge
COBISS.SI-ID: 32343513