Contents

Guest Editorial: Remembering Trailblazer Esther M. Wilkins, BS, RDH, DMD

One year after the passing of this dental hygiene icon, we remember her life contributions, and her enduring impact upon the profession. By Pamela J. Bretschneider, PhD

What the Future Holds For Periodontal Treatment

Although today’s periodontal treatment has experienced significant advancement, even more promising therapies are on the horizon. By P. Mark Bartold, DDSc, PhD

Third Molar Removal

While the decision to remove third molars without the presence of pathology has become controversial, this case study illustrates the risks of leaving them intact. By Jennifer S. Sherry, RDH, MSEd, Sandi Watts, MHA, RTR, ARRT, Samantha Hennig, RDH, BSDH, Molly Hogan, RDH, BSDH

Ensure Safe Practice While Volunteering

Strategies for maintaining proper infection control when providing care in nontraditional settings. By Douglas L. Risk, DDS, Col, USAF, DC

Dimensions of Dental Hygiene’s 10th Annual Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know: Celebrating Excellence

Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, with the support of Hu-Friedy, honors the accomplishments of dental hygienists and supports mentorship through an online platform. By The Editors

Update on Methods for Oral Biofilm Disruption

Regular personal and professional biofilm removal is key to preventing and treating oral infections. By Kathleen O. Hodges, RDH, MS

Adverse Effects of Medication Use

As complications of medication use negatively impact oral comfort, function, and quality of life, clinicians should assess patients' drug regimens to determine oral health risks. By Ann Eshenaur Spolarich, RDH, PhD, FSCDH

Detecting Gingival Cancer

Oral health professionals play a crucial role in the early detection and post-therapy management of this disease. By Joshua E. Lubek, DDS, MD, FACS

Early Detection of Type 2 Diabetes In Children and Adolescents

Following are assessment techniques that are easily implemented into routine dental hygiene practice. By Lorinda L. Coan, RDH, MS, Angela Wooton, PhD, RN, FNP-C, Amanda R. Reddington, LDH, MHA, CDA, EFDA, Lynne Melchior, MSN, ACNP-BC, CDE

Create Ripples, Change Your World

Never underestimate the power you have to change the lives and health of your patients. By Jill Rethman, RDH, BA

Does “Activated Charcoal” Effectively Whiten Teeth?

One of my patients asked me about using activated charcoal to whiten teeth. While I had not heard of this before, upon a Google search, it seems to be a popular approach to at-home bleaching. How should I advise my patients on this trend? By Van B. Haywood, DMD, Erin Boyleston, RDH, MS

December 2017 Marketplace

A listing of featured products. By The Editors

Newly Founded American Academy of Cariology: Eradicating Dental Caries in the United States

The American Academy of Cariology (AAC) is a non-profit organization formed with the vision to eradicate dental caries in the United States through the promotion of science-based disease management. By The Editors