In this episode of Dentistry Connected, sponsored by Solventum, clinical adviser Karen Toole sits down with Dr Chinwe Akuonu to discuss the evolution of preventive dentistry, the role of modern fluoride therapies and how innovations such as Clinpro Clear may help improve patient engagement.

A general dentist and King's College London graduate, Chinwe reflects on her journey into dentistry and the experiences that shaped her preventive philosophy. Growing up in Nigeria, she had limited exposure to oral healthcare and, like many people, viewed dentistry primarily as a service for treating pain, extracting teeth or replacing missing dentition.

It was this lack of awareness around prevention that sparked her interest in the profession. During her training in dental hygiene and therapy, she developed a passion for helping patients understand the value of preventive care and the impact it can have on long-term oral health.

Throughout the conversation, Chinwe highlights the importance of education in improving patient outcomes. She explains how increasing public understanding of oral health can encourage earlier intervention, support behaviour change and reduce the burden of preventable disease.

For dental professionals, the discussion also explores how fluoride therapy continues to evolve, with a focus on improving both clinical outcomes and patient experience. Chinwe shares her thoughts on the challenges facing preventive dentistry today and the opportunities available to clinicians looking to embed prevention more effectively into everyday practice.

Listen now to hear Chinwe's insights on patient education, prevention-led care and the future of fluoride therapy in modern dentistry.

This episode of Dentistry Connected is sponsored by Solventum.

Topics include:

- The evolution of prevention-led dentistry

- Why patient education remains the most powerful preventive tool

- Separating fluoride fact from fiction

- Personalising prevention for every patient's needs

- Improving compliance through better patient experiences

- How prevention is shaping the future of dental care.