Part of the mission statement of the Arizona Board of Dental Examiners states: “…to protect the oral health, safety and welfare of Arizona citizens through a fair and impartial system.”

Experts in communication, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are integral members of the therapy team. Communication is not merely forming words and pronouncing them, it’s essential to a productive life.

I wrote this memo from Columbus, Ohio, where I attended the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) Annual Meeting with the team from Dimensions of Dental Hygiene.

In the April issue of Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, I highlighted the work of respiratory therapists and how they are partners in the care we provide.

In our professional lives, we may take our knowledge for granted, expecting that others know what we know.

As oral health professionals, we know that achieving good oral health for children is sometimes not a simple proposition.

I recently experienced a life lesson when my older brother suffered a debilitating health crisis.

Most oral health professionals don't consider themselves public relations (PR) experts. After all, our role is to prevent and treat disease. Yet our efforts to improve oral health can be seen as a PR opportunity.

You could make a resolution to join 1 million fellow citizens to help determine the future of medicine and oral health care.

Never underestimate the power you have to change the lives and health of your patients.