Ask the Expert

The new owner of the practice I work in has made some changes regarding the way dental hygienists are paid. The dentist has asked that we decrease our hours if the schedule has openings either at the start or finish of the day, or following…

Do you think it is appropriate for a dentist to tell a patient that the swelling is a direct result of the dental hygienist not cleaning to the base of the pocket?

What amount and what length of regimen are too much?

I have several patients who have undergone in-office bleaching and would like some over-the-counter options to upkeep their new white smiles. What do you suggest?

What is the protocol for treating a patient with an active cold sore? Do universal precautions cover the risks involved?

I have a 25-year-old female patient with moderate to severe tetracycline staining, especially on the anteriors.

A memo I was asked to sign regarding periodontal treatment guidelines does not mention the dentist’s responsibility for diagnosing periodontal disease, advising the patient, treatment planning, or referring to a periodontist. Am I outside…

What is the current research on the efficacy of chlorhexidine varnish for root caries compared with fluoride varnish?

Should chlorhexidine be used after scaling and root planing?

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?