When providing selective scaling and root planing, what type of anesthetic injections would you recommend for a patient who has 5 mm to 7 mm pockets on the distal of #7 and the mesial of #4?

I have been experiencing sharp, aching pain in my right wrist and arm at seemingly random intervals. The dentist suggested taking ibuprofen, but it doesn't seem to help. How can I prevent this pain from recurring?

Several of my patients who take bisphosphonates to treat their osteoporosis have been questioning their safety. One has asked whether calcium or vitamin D supplements provide the same benefits. How do I best advise them?

I am starting a new position with a practice that includes a large proportion of Hmong people—some of whom do not speak English—in its patient population. Do you have any advice to help me communicate effectively with non English…

I have consistently observed the presence of xerostomia among patients with facial paralysis. Is there an association between the two?

I am having trouble generating strokes that are powerful enough to remove tenacious calculus. Do you have any suggestions?

I am 24 weeks pregnant and wondering if there are any risks to working around nitrous oxide in the dental setting.

This month's questions as featured in Dimensions of Dental Hygiene.

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