Contents
This Month’s Features
Quenching Thirst or Demineralizing Tooth Enamel?
The pH of beverages significantly impacts the health of enamel.
The Benefits of Digital Radiography Outweigh the Risks
Helping patients overcome their apprehension regarding Intraoral imaging may increase compliance with this important diagnostic tool.
The dental prevention coordinator can make a big difference in the oral health of vulnerable populations.
Continuing Education
Importance of Micronutrients in Both Systemic and Oral Health
Remaining up to date on the important role vitamins and minerals play in a functioning immune system as well as how they relate to oral health is part of providing patient-centered care.
Addressing Suicide Risk in the Dental Setting
Incorporating screening questionnaires that assess probability for suicide ideation, capability, and attempt into the medical history form may help ensure at-risk patients receive the help they need.
Oral Effects of Eating Disorders
Spotting the signs of these issues and helping to mitigate their impact on the oral cavity are key to supporting both oral and systemic health.
Human Papillomavirus-Induced Head and Neck Lesions
Oral health professionals should be well-versed in the mode of transmission, risk factors associated with infection, and treatment modalities.
Departments
Editor’s Note
The Ongoing Impact Of Covid-19
The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), in conjunction with the American Dental Association, recently conducted a webinar to apprise interested parties on the impact of COVID-19 on the infection prevention practices and vaccine acceptance of dental hygienists, as well as the dental hygiene employment situation. A follow-up to two previous webinars, the purpose of this [...]
Ask the Expert
Preventing Cross-Contamination
What are some effective strategies to reduce the risk of cross-contamination in the dental operatory? The dental operatory is a prime source of infection, so surfaces in this area must be properly disinfected to avoid cross contamination. Environmental surfaces—such as light handles, chair adjustment switches, and counter tops, or equipment such as radiography items, air [...]
Products and Services
Preventive Products for Happy, Healthy Patients
ACCLEAN® by Henry Schein has revamped its line of dental hygiene products to provide a comprehensive, end-to-end solution across all stages of preventive care.
Designs for Vision’s Infinity VUE loupes provide the benefits of a customized, ergonomic design.
Newsline + Industry Info
What do you think about introducing new providers to address access-to-care issues? Carrie Nennich, RDH Dimensions Facebook Commenter Increasing reimbursement rates for dental care in state insurance plans would improve access to care. Many dental offices don’t accept state insurance because they lose money. Sara Dever RDH, MPH Dimensions Facebook Commenter We absolutely need midlevel [...]
New Edition of Highly Regarded Oral Pathology Textbook is Released
Elsevier recently published the 8th edition of the highly regarded oral pathology textbook, Oral Pathology for the Dental Hygienist. The textbook has been used by more than 300,000 dental hygiene students and practitioners, and has been translated into several languages including Korean, Spanish, and Italian. Tailored to the role of the dental hygienist, the book [...]
Dental Hygiene Educator Receives Colgate Research Award
Michelle C. Arnett, RDH, BS, MS, an assistant professor in the Department of Primary Dental Care, Division of Dental Hygiene at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in Minneapolis, recently received the 2022 Colgate Award for Research Excellence (CARE). The CARE identifies and supports the next generation of academic researchers by providing $30,000 per [...]
Study Evaluates Naproxen Sodium Vs Opioid to Treat Dental Pain
New clinical research has shown that a single 440-mg dose of over-the-counter naproxen sodium (NapS) is as effective, lasts longer, and is better tolerated than a single dose of a commonly prescribed opioid for managing acute post-surgical dental pain. The single-dose study, “Analgesic Efficacy of Naproxen Sodium Vs Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen in Acute Post-Surgical Dental Pain: a [...]