Here at Tempdent, we’re championing the growing recognition of oral health as a cornerstone of overall wellbeing. The evidence is clear: what happens in the mouth doesn’t stay in the mouth. Poor oral hygiene is increasingly linked to a range of systemic health conditions, from cardiovascular disease and diabetes to respiratory infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
The mouth is a gateway to the body. Bacteria from untreated periodontal conditions can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and contributing to chronic conditions. For example:
- Heart disease: Studies show that gum disease may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes due to inflammation and bacterial spread.
- Diabetes: Poor oral health can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and vice versa – poorly controlled diabetes can be a factor that makes patients more susceptible to periodontitis.
- Respiratory conditions: Inhaled oral bacteria can lead to lung infections, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly.
- Pregnancy complications: Periodontitis has been associated with premature birth and low birth weight.
This growing body of research highlights the importance of integrating oral health into broader public health strategies – and that’s where the role of the Oral Health Practitioner (OHP) comes in.
The role of the Oral Health Practitioner: Prevention first
An Oral Health Practitioner (OHP) is a dynamic and community-focused role designed to enhance the dental team by supporting the profession in reducing the incidence of various oral and general health conditions and helping to address health inequalities.
With a “prevention first” approach, OHPs are trained to:
- Work directly in patients’ mouths to perform preventative treatment.
- Apply fluoride varnish, take impressions, and conduct plaque scoring.
- Deliver oral health education and awareness in schools, care homes, and community groups, especially in underserved communities.
- Conduct general health screenings such as blood pressure and diabetes checks, and support patients to lower their smoking and alcohol consumption to improve their overall health and well-being.
OHPs are uniquely trained and positioned to promote behaviour change and early intervention, helping patients maintain good oral hygiene before problems arise. Their work supports the NHS’s shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention – a transformation that’s vital for long-term public health.
Empowering Dental Nurses to expand their scope of practice
For GDC-registered Dental Nurses and other dental care professionals, becoming an Oral Health Practitioner is a powerful step forward. It opens up new career paths for Dental Nurses and offers greater autonomy, enhanced clinical skills, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in both dental practices and community settings.
At Tempdent, we’re proud to offer the Level 4 Oral Health Practitioner Apprenticeship, designed to equip learners with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to progress and thrive in this role.
Enrol now for October 2025
We’re now enrolling for our October 2025 intake of the Level 4 Oral Health Practitioner Apprenticeship – a transformative opportunity for your team to lead the way in preventative care.
Find out more about the apprenticeship
Register your interest here
If you’d like to find out more about this apprenticeship, complete the form above or call our team on 020 8371 6700, or send an email to hello@tempdent.co.uk , and we’ll be in touch!
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