Which type of educational information is designed to help patients prevent cavities?

Oral hygiene instructions (OHI) are specifically designed to educate patients on effective practices to maintain their oral health, particularly in preventing cavities. These instructions usually include recommendations on proper tooth brushing techniques, the importance of fluoride, the use of dental floss, and dietary choices that can affect oral health. By providing patients with clear and actionable steps to follow, OHI empowers them to take charge of their dental hygiene, effectively reducing their risk of developing cavities.

In contrast, dental screenings and oral health assessments focus more on evaluating and diagnosing existing conditions rather than providing preventive education. While patient care guidelines may incorporate elements of preventive care, they are typically broader and pertain more to overall treatment protocols instead of focusing solely on daily oral hygiene practices. Thus, oral hygiene instructions stand out as the most direct approach to cavity prevention among the given options.