Reconnecting Practicing Hygienists with the Nation's Leading Educators and Researchers.

Author

Timothy L. Hottel, DDS, MS, DBA, FACD

Timothy L. Hottel, DDS, MS, DBA, FACD, is a clinical professor at the College of Dental Medicine, Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. Previously, he served in a variety of key positions — including dean and director of Statewide Oral Health Initiatives — at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. With more than 100 published articles, Hottel is also coauthor of the textbook Dentistry for the Restorative Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary. A member of Decisions in Dentistry’s Peer Review Panel, he can be reached at: tlhottel@gmail.com.

Online Exclusive

The Warning Signs of Blood Disorders Hiding in the Mouth

Oct 16, 2026

Explore the oral manifestations of immune thrombocytopenia, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and Evans syndrome, along with strategies for identifying concerning findings, modifying dental hygiene care, and minimizing bleeding risks.

Perio Update

GBR and Growth Factors Deliver 10 mm Bone Gain Without Autograft

Jul 2, 2025

A recent case report in Perio Update showcases a staged guided bone regeneration (GBR) approach using a composite graft and rh-PDGF to overcome a severe ridge defect, achieving an impressive 10 mm horizontal bone gain without harvesting…

Perio Update

Rescuing a Smile With a Ridge Augmentation and Implant Rehabilitation

Jun 26, 2025

Severe trauma left a patient missing central incisors and facing a complex horizontal and vertical ridge defect. Through precision-guided bone regeneration and staged implant placement, both form and function were restored with results…

Perio Update

Growth Factors Redefine Implant Success

Jun 18, 2025

Recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB is revolutionizing bone regeneration by enhancing cellular activity and accelerating tissue repair. This powerful biologic shows impressive results when paired with grafting materials,…

Perio Update

GBR Advances Make Narrow Ridges Implant-Ready Without the Need for Autogenous Bone

Jun 13, 2025

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) has evolved into a reliable solution for complex ridge augmentation, even in challenging knife-edge cases. While autogenous bone remains a gold standard, emerging evidence shows comparable outcomes with…

Perio Update

Exploring Regenerative Approaches for Retrograde Peri-Implantitis

Feb 26, 2025

A novel case report highlights the potential of recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor with allograft material in managing retrograde peri-implantitis. While biofilm removal remains a challenge, this approach demonstrates…

Perio Update

Managing Late Implant Complications in a Medically Complex Patient

Feb 21, 2025

An 81-year-old patient with well-controlled type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease presented with late implant complications, including peri-implant infection and pocketing. A surgical approach combining guided bone regeneration and…

Perio Update

Understanding and Managing Periapical Lesions

Feb 14, 2025

Retrograde peri-implantitis presents a rare but challenging complication in implant dentistry. Learn about its potential causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies, including the role of growth factors like rh-PDGF in promoting…

Perio Update

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Salvaging an Implant in the Esthetic Zone

Feb 7, 2025

A dental implant with midfacial recession in the esthetic zone was successfully preserved using a hybrid abutment and a modified coronally advanced tunnel with a connective tissue graft. This case highlights the importance of correct…

Perio Update

A Comprehensive Approach to Implant Soft Tissue Management

Jan 29, 2025

A complex soft tissue defect around a maxillary implant was successfully treated using a modified coronally advanced tunnel technique with a connective tissue graft. By combining precise surgical and prosthetic protocols, clinicians…