Contents

Dental Caries Reimagined

With a growing body of evidence in preventive dental science and increased focus on patient-centered care, oral health professionals should consider new approaches to caries management. By Irina Smilyanski, RDH, MSc, MSDH

Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know

In the 13th 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. By The Editors

Oral Implications of Gastroesophageal and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Diseases

Understanding the signs and symptoms of these common health problems can help clinicians educate patients on the best approach to prevent serious oral health issues. By Jennifer E. Fehrenbacher, LDH, MEd, CDA, Amanda R. Reddington, LDH, MHA, CDA, EFDA

The Role of Dental Hygienists in Addressing Sleep Breathing Disorders

These clinicians are uniquely positioned to provide screening, compliance support, and education on treating these common health problems. By Valerie Cuzella, RDH, BAS, Mary-Catherine Dean, RDH, MS

Caries Risk of E-Cigarette Use

While evidence is limited, vaping may contribute to increased caries experience and other negative health effects. By Camille Biorn, RDH, BS

Achieving an Accurate Diagnosis for Facial Paralysis

The following case report illustrates the diagnosis and management of facial paralysis caused by Ramsay Hunt syndrome. By Gregory Griffin, DMD, Courtney S. Babb, DMD, Kim L. Capehart, DDS, PhD, MBA

Cheers to You!

As the year draws to a close, it's a perfect time for us to give kudos to all of you for your dedication, perseverance, flexibility, and positivity. By Jill Rethman, RDH, BA

Help For Patients With Dry Mouth

Ask the Expert By Martha J. McComas, RDH, MS

December 2020 Marketplace For Dental Hygienists

A listing of featured products. By The Editors

Patients Open to Vaccination Within the Dental Setting

According to a recent poll from the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute, patients are open to the idea of routine vaccination at the dental office. By The Editors

Perspectives Board Member to Receive Adea Gies Award

Mary E. Williard, DDS, CAPT USPHS, the clinical site director for the Alaska Dental Therapy Educational Program, will receive the 2021 William J. Gies Award for Vision, Innovation, and Achievement—Dental Educator. A Perspectives on the Midlevel Practitioner Editorial Advisory Board Member, Williard has worked in American Indian/Alaska Native communities since 1996 as a clinician serving [...] By The Editors

Starbucks Offers Free Coffee to Oral Health Professionals

Starbucks, the Seattle-based chain of coffee shops, is offering a free tall-sized cup of coffee to frontline responders to the global pandemic. By The Editors

Study Suggests Periodontal Diseases May Increase Cancer Risks

Researchers from Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggest patients with periodontal diseases may be at greater risk of developing cancer than the general population. By The Editors

Research Shows Rapid Rise in Vaping and Marijuana Use in Young Adults

Although cigarette smoking has been on the decline for a decade, two trends have become popular with young adults between the ages of 18 and 25: electronic cigarettes and marijuana. By The Editors

GSU to Offer Degree-Completion Program

Georgia State University (GSU) in Atlanta will begin offering a degree-completion program for dental hygienists this fall. By The Editors

December 2020 Digital Agenda

Digital Agenda covers all that’s happening under Dimensions’ social media platforms. By The Editors

December 2020 Social Commentary

Like Dimensions of Dental Hygiene’s Facebook page to share your thoughts on posted questions. By The Editors