Improving communication between providers, increasing use of alternative pain control mechanisms, and creating evidence-based prescribing guidelines will reduce the unintended distribution of prescription opioids.
Treating the dental unit water, flushing the air/waterlines between patients, regular testing of water quality, and following all manufacturer instructions will help dental practices effectively maintain their dental unit waterlines.
With applications ranging from soft tissue surgery to sealant and caries preparations, dental lasers represent a viable treatment modality for this patient population.
What level of mask should dental hygienists use when completing typical activities, such as X-rays and patient care? I use level 3, but would level 2 would be sufficient?