Examination
and Diagnosis
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6CHAPTER
Whenever you do an
examination, remember
to examine the mouth.
You can prevent much suffering
and serious sickness when
you notice and treat problems early.
Whenever you hold a health clinic, try
to find out how healthy each person’s
mouth is.
Ask if she is having a problem now, or
has had a problem recently.
Always write down what you find out,
so you remember what treatment that
person needs.
1. Are the teeth healthy? Look for:
1. A New
Tooth
When you look inside someone’s
mouth, ask yourself these questions.
Tell the person what is
happening and how to
keep the skin around
a new tooth healthy
(page 66).
2. Black
Spots
They may be cavities
which should be filled
when they are still
small (page 47).
3. A Loose
Tooth
Tell the person what is
happening and how to prevent a
loose tooth from getting worse or
affecting other teeth (page 54).
4. A Dark
Tooth
A tooth that is dark is dead and infection from
its root can go into the bone (page 47). This
can make a sore on the gums (page 74).
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