Dentretien

Dentretien is a term used in some Francophone dental literature to denote the ongoing maintenance of dentition and dental prosthetics, combining daily hygiene, dietary considerations, and periodic professional care. The term derives from dent- (tooth) and entretien (maintenance or care) and is often used to emphasize preventive aspects of oral health within clinical guidelines.

Scope and definition: Dentretien covers care of natural teeth, gums, and supporting structures, as well as maintenance of dentures, crowns, bridges, and dental implants. It encompasses patient self-care actions, professional supervision, and problem management to preserve function, aesthetics, and comfort.

Daily practice: Core components include brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, daily interdental cleaning (floss or interdental brushes), limiting fermentable carbohydrates, reducing tobacco use, and using antiseptic or fluoride mouth rinses as advised. Diet and hydration, saliva health, and occlusal awareness are also considered.

Professional care: Regular dental visits (commonly every six months) enable exam and prophylaxis, radiographs as indicated, and risk assessment for caries and periodontal disease. For patients with dentures or implants, specialized maintenance applies; this includes cleaning protocols, checks for fit and function, adjustments, and management of wear or bone loss around implants.

Education and guidelines: Dentretien emphasizes preventive philosophy, patient education, and adherence to evidence-based protocols. Practitioners tailor plans to age, medical status, and prosthetic devices, with periodic reevaluation of goals and risk factors.

See also: Oral hygiene, dental prophylaxis, denture care, periodontal maintenance.