Learning time: ~10 minutes
In this section, you will go through a step-by-step clinical scenario cheatsheet to design a simple, personalised nutrition strategy for your patients. The goal is not perfection, but progress. Think of this as a template you can adapt in your real-world conversations.
Step 1: Identify patient risk profile
Ask yourself:
- Does this patient have signs of oral dysbiosis?
- Do they have systemic inflammation or chronic conditions?
- Do they rely on highly processed foods or report poor dietary patterns?
If yes to 1 or more, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: Choose 1–2 starter goals based on their diet history
| Goal Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Reduce | Remove sugary drinks; limit snacking frequency; reduce processed meat intake |
| Replace | Swap white bread with whole grains; replace candy with berries or dark chocolate |
| Reinforce | Add 1 serving of fermented food per day; add leafy greens for nitrate intake |
Step 3: Recommend one biotic strategy
Pick one based on the patient's needs:
| Clinical Concern | Suggested biotic intervention |
|---|---|
| Recurrent cavities | Xylitol gum + S. salivarius probiotic |
| Periodontitis | Omega-3s + L. reuteri oral probiotic lozenges |
| Dry mouth | Fermented foods + hydration + prebiotic fibre |
| Gut/oral connection | Synbiotic smoothie: kefir + banana + flaxseed |
Step 4: Track and follow up
Schedule a follow-up in 4–6 weeks to reassess:
- Oral inflammation (e.g., bleeding, redness)
- pH, salivary flow, and plaque maturity
- Subjective improvements in energy, digestion, or mood
Encourage journaling or check-in forms to increase adherence and reflection.