Contents

Evaluate Disease Potential

Basic periodontal risk assessment is key to diagnosis, prognosis, and care planning. By Kathleen O. Hodges, RDH, MS

Seal Away Caries Risk

Dental sealants are a long-proven method for preventing caries, and advances in materials have simplified their application. By Natalie Hagel, RDH, MS, Dorothy Vannah, Med, RDH, CDA

Simple Strategies for Surface Disinfection

Clinicians need to be well informed about the properties of the products they use for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. By Laura Gail Hendricks, RDH, MEd

The Influence of Sex on Health

Understanding the connections between sex, gender, and well-being may improve health outcomes. By Maria Perno Goldie, RDH, BA, MS

Unscrambling the Periodontitis-Diabetes Connection

A large body of evidence demonstrates that diabetes mellitus and periodontitis are closely linked but the association remains complex. By Evanthia Lalla, DDS, MS

All Sugars Are Not Created Equal

While it is well known that consuming too much sugar has negative consequences, emerging research is demonstrating that high-fructose corn syrup may exert specific, unique effects on both systemic and oral health. By Brian Nový, DDS, Betsy Reynolds, RDH, MS

Create a Safety Culture

The use of an implant safety checklist can help reduce the risk of error and improve outcomes. By Sivaraman Prakasam, BDS, MSD, PhD

Maintain a Passion For Your Profession 

It's difficult to believe that 2015 is already half over. I'm sure your days have been filled with family activities and work responsibilities. But have you done anything lately to enhance your personal and professional growth? By Jill Rethman, RDH, BA

Are There Effects of Clonazepam on Dental Treatment?

One of my patients takes clonazepam to address her anxiety and prevent panic attacks. She is scheduled to begin four quadrants of scaling and root planing, and I would like to provide anesthesia to make this experience more comfortable. Should I be concerned about the local anesthesia interacting with the clonazepam? By Jacqueline J. Freudenthal, RDH, MHE

FAQ: Floral Design Face Masks by BeeSure 

Face mask design delivers comfort, breathability, and style. By BeeSure by EcoBee

Dental Hygienist Launches Oral Care Program for Older Adults

Angie Stone, RDH, BS, is the founder of HyLife Oral Care Services, a network of dental hygienists based in Edgerton, Wisconsin, that provides care to dependent older adults. By The Editors

Industry Info

Sunstar Spotlight Highlights 2016 World Dental Hygienist Awards By The Editors

JoAnn R. Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, alongside premier sponsor Colgate and supporting sponsors Patterson Dental and Straumann, is pleased to announce that JoAnn R. Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, is the 2015 recipient of The Esther Wilkins Lifetime Achievement Award. By The Editors

Many States Failing to Enact Sealant Programs

A new report from the Pew Charitable Trusts reveals that many states are failing to protect their most vulnerable residents from preventable dental diseases, such as caries, due to faltering sealant programs. By The Editors