Avoid pot noodles and cheesecake….

Abstract

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Reviewing the history of primary care dentistry from ancient Egypt to the present, with glimpses into future possibilities, the author takes a narrow, first world, mechanically interventionist view. Whilst recognising that part of the purpose of primary care (from the Alma Ata declaration, 1978) is 'the maintenance of health (and) the prevention of disease' and that one of the goals is to 'promote good oral hygiene habits, ' the author presents a picture of today dominated by intervention (albeit 'minimally') and the rise of digital dentistry presenting opportunities for improving patient comfort (presumably during interventions). There is a current need for research to be carried out in general practice, to assess the effectiveness and 'performance of dental restorations, devices and techniques' in the real world, rather than in the 'ideal circumstances' of an academic environment. The future is characterised by further digital developments in scanning, 3D printing and the expanding use of teledentistry. Artificial intelligence will be used to improve workflows, streamline dental procedures and virtual treatment planning. There is no mention, in the author's primary care future, of the development of preventive strategies, managing behaviour change or liaising with other health care professionals to improve general health.