Contents

The Role of Fluoride in Caries Prevention

With a variety of concentrations, application types, and delivery methods, clinicians can recommend the right fluoride product for their patients' individual needs. By Petal C. Leu-Wai-See, RDH, CHES, BSDH, MA, Cynthia J. Howard, RDH, BS, MS, CCRC

The Safe Use of Radiography in Children

Pediatric patients are more vulnerable to the effects of radiation, so clinicians must be prudent when capturing radiographs in this population. By Ann M. Bruhn, RDH, BSDH, MS, Jessica Suedbeck, RDH, BSDH, MS

The Bane of Burnished Calculus

Complete removal of all subgingival deposits is a challenge, but leaving burnished calculus behind threatens periodontal health. By Linda Brookman, RDH, BSDH, MSHS, Donna Smith, BSDH, MSEd, RDHAP

Focus on Sealants

This annual guide is a comprehensive compilation of etching materials, primers/bonding agents, sealants, curing lights, articulating paper, and finishers and polishers, which can be used in any clinical setting. By The Editors

Guest Editorial: Effective Care Starts With Caries Risk Assessment

Caries risk determination is a critical component of the clinical decision-making process. By Jade Miller, DDS

Diabetes and Periodontal Diseases

Inflammation is the link that binds these two common maladies. By Marcelo Freire, DDS, PhD, DMSc

Supporting Oral Health in Pregnancy

Providing dental care to pregnant patients is both safe and necessary to ensure the health of both mothers and infants. By Susan Vogell, EdD, RDH

Tobacco Trends

While tobacco use continues to decline in adults, its prevalence is growing among young people, emphasizing the need for effective prevention and intervention strategies. By Linda D. Boyd, RDH, RD, EdD

The Use Of Lasers in Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy

The efficacy of this technology as an adjunctive treatment for periodontitis and peri-implant diseases remains controversial. By Denise M. Bowen, RDH, MS (deceased)

A Brave New World

As a "seasoned" dental hygienist, it's fun to look back on the advances that have been made during my professional career. By Jill Rethman, RDH, BA

Overcoming Patient Objections

The Ask the Expert column features answers to your most pressing clinical questions. By Stacy Matsuda, RDH, BS, MS

Marketplace

A listing of featured products. By The Editors

Georgia Legislation Seeks to Eliminate Direct Supervision Law for Dental Hygienists

Georgia is one of the few states in the country where dental hygienists can practice only under the direct supervision of a dentist. By The Editors

Hu-Friedy Announces New Acquisition

Chicago-based Hu-Friedy announced in January its acquisition of J. Palmero Sales Co. By The Editors

Sunstar Americas Supports Interprofessional Collaboration

In December 2016, Sunstar Americas and the National Dental Association hosted a program during the 2016 Greater New York Dental Meeting. By The Editors

Digital Marketing Company Announces Sponsorship

Ceatus Media Group announced it would continue its sponsorship of the Nash Institute for Dental Learning in 2017. By The Editors

Exploring Inflammation as Link Between Periodontitis and Diabetes

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes continues to increase worldwide, decreasing quality of life, shortening lifespan, and increasing health care costs for those affected. By The Editors

UCLA Strives to Improve Access to Dental Care

The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) recently published recommendations for improving access to care in the article "Improving the Oral Health Care Capacity of Federally Qualified Health Centers," published in the December issue of Health Affairs. By The Editors

Salivary Gland Abnormalities Linked to Cleft Lip/Palate

New research published by the Journal of Dental Research suggests that dental anomalies associated with cleft lip/cleft palate may be the result of salivary gland abnormalities. By The Editors