Many possible causes may expose dentin and predispose patients to hypersensitivity, including toothbrush abrasion, acid erosion, anatomical factors, and gingival recession.

Body modifications, such as tattoos, piercings, and branding/scarification, have been used by humans for thousands of years. While acceptance of these practices varied in different cultures, their social acceptance has been growing globally…

With the multitude of restorative options available, dental hygienists need to be knowledgeable about the qualities of each restorative material in order to help guide patients on these decisions. Dental technology has improved the quality…

Dental caries is a national and global public health epidemic, affecting both children and adults from all races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic levels. Oral health professionals, as well as medical providers, play critical roles in…

Teledentistry describes the use of technology to facilitate communication and oral health care between patients and dental providers in separate locations. Implementing teledentistry practices can enhance oral health care delivery and…

The complex root anatomy of premolars poses a distinct challenge during hand instrumentation. Regardless of difficulty, mechanical debridement is an essential component of oral health care for patients with a healthy periodontium, gingival…

Patient compliance is an ongoing challenge for oral health professionals. Significant time is spent educating patients with varying results. While compliance, or lack thereof, applies to patients of all generations, Millennial patients…

Chronic diseases diabetes and periodontitis share a common inflammatory burden. In fact, it has been suggested that periodontitis is the sixth complication of diabetes. The dental setting is well positioned to provide screening for the…

While rare, gingival cancer can be deadly, and patients’ first line of defense is in the hands of their oral health professional. Frequently mistaken for periodontal disease or local tissue trauma, gingival cancer is thought to arise from a…

Complications of medication use can negatively impact oral comfort, function, and quality of life. How much do you know about the oral health risks of your patients’ drug regimens?