Oral Health in pharmacy: Expanding scope with fluoride applications
Tracks
Track 3
| Saturday, August 2, 2025 |
| 11:30 AM - 12:10 PM |
| C2.5 + C2.6 |
Details
In 2022–23, 5–9-year-olds had the highest rate of potentially preventable hospitalisations due to dental conditions (AIHW). With oral health playing a crucial role in overall well-being, pharmacists are stepping up to bridge the gap in preventive care. Queensland’s recent scope of practice trial includes pharmacists applying fluoride varnish in pharmacies, marking an exciting expansion of the profession’s scope. This session will explore the context and process for pharmacist-led fluoride applications, including the evidence supporting its effectiveness and practical implementation.
Don't miss out on a live demo of fluoride application—see the process in action and get some hands-on tips!
Learning objectives
- Discuss common oral health issues and their impact on overall health.
- Describe the role of fluoride in preventing dental conditions.
- Identify key considerations for implementing fluoride applications in pharmacy practice.
Competency standards (2016): 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 3.6
Speakers
Adjunct A/Prof Alex Park
University of Western Australia
Oral health in pharmacy: Expanding scope with fluoride applications
Biography
Adjunct Associate Professor Alex Park is a registered pharmacist and dentist and a Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Optimisation of Medicines, The University of Western Australia. He works in private dental and pharmacy practice, and his research focuses on pharmacy practice, digital health, medication management, and dental education. He holds editorial roles in pharmacy and dental journals and is recognised for his teaching, research, and professional practice contributions.
