Portable extraoral aerosol extractors can improve the safety of oral healthcare by helping contain dental bioaerosols.

In the 14th edition of this annual feature, Dimensions of Dental Hygiene recognizes the best and the brightest in academia, clinical practice, industry, “mover and shaker,” public health, and research.

This midlevel practitioner who works on nontribal land shares her insight into the importance of the dental therapist provider.

A wide array of interventions and therapies is available to help dental hygienists stay healthy and reduce pain.

What sterilization protocol do you suggest to ensure our instruments are truly sterilized but will be simple for all dental team members to follow?

Focusing on deep periodontal pocket topography can aid dental hygienists in selecting appropriate hand instruments and providing effective treatment.

As dental hygienists rely on their visual acuity to effectively treat patients, promoting eye health is important.

A keen understanding of root morphology and how it provides hiding places for biofilm and calculus is integral to successful patient outcomes.

Emerging research provides preliminary evidence that the adjunctive use of cannabinoids supports the treatment of periodontal diseases.

I have been working in clinical practice for almost 5 years. I am starting to experience pain in my hands, arms, and shoulders. I use loupes and a headlamp. My dentist wants to improve the ergonomics of my operatory. What should I…

Most of the patients I see either outright refuse to floss or lie about it. What are some good alternatives to recommend?

With most dental practices having already made the switch from film to digital, oral health professionals need to consistently evaluate their technique to ensure they are effectively capturing patient images.

Using loupes and lights may help clinicians compensate for visual deficiencies and improve ergonomics, possibly increasing career longevity.

What can I do to reduce the amount of spatter created during prophylaxis?

Use of silver diamine fluoride and the atraumatic restorative technique can help minimize aerosols during dental procedures.