Are Handheld Dental X-Ray Devices Convenient or a Hidden Safety Risk?

As these handy devices become more common in dentistry, updated safety protocols and proper technique are critical to minimizing radiation exposure and protecting both clinicians and patients. By Audra E. Haynes, RDH, MPH

Hydroxyapatite Offers a New Option in Caries Prevention and Sensitivity Relief

This calcium and phosphate compound provides a safe and effective alternative to fluoride. By Jamie L. Bishop, RDH, BSDH, MDH, Denise M. Messina, RDH, BS, MDH

Implants Don’t Fail, We Fail Them

Implant breakdown is frequently the result of missed biological principles and inconsistent care. By Adam E. Saltz, DMD, MS, MPH, Peter R. Then, DMD

Preventing Harm in Dentistry

Underreported adverse events and preventable errors highlight an urgent need for stronger safety systems, ethical practice, and consistent prevention strategies. By Diana Macri, RDH, BSDH, MSEd

When Cancer Treatment Affects the Mouth

Dental hygienists play a critical role in preventing, identifying, and managing oral mucositis. By Angie Marshall-Reech, MEd, BSDH, RDH, CH-ONC, Catrina Lanza, MHA, BSDH, RDH

How the Epstein-Barr Virus Impacts Periodontal Health

From oral lesions to periodontal destruction, this virus is emerging as a critical yet often overlooked factor in dental patient care. By Emily Carico, Sania Pullen, Kimberly Lintag-Nguyen, EdD, MSDH, RDH

The Hidden Sleep Disorder Linked to Oral and Systemic Health

Oral health professionals are uniquely positioned to detect pediatric obstructive sleep apnea early and help change a child’s lifelong health trajectory. By Shannon W. Smith, MEd, RDH, Laura J. Southwick, MA

From Silos to Synergy

We frequently hear the phrase “practicing in silos.” It’s a perfect description of how the daily focus of dental hygiene care can make practitioners feel isolated. For many, there’s a sense of being separated from colleagues and working in seclusion. Unless we regularly seek out other dental hygiene professionals, our world might be detached from [...] By Jill Rethman, RDH, BA, FADHA

What to Do When a Patient Declines Treatment

When scaling and root planing is recommended to a patient with periodontal disease, do we need to give prophylaxis as an option? Presently we do not, but the dentist is concerned that patients may not return if we insist they receive treatment for their periodontitis. By Michele P. Carr, RDH, MA, EdD

Go All-In on Ultrasonic Instrumentation

Disrupt the traditional approach by fully embracing ultrasonics to remove more biofilm, preserve cementum, and deliver faster, more comfortable care. By Brandi Hooker Evans, RDH-ER, MHE, MAADH