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Oral bacteria can have a negative impact on a patient's overall health. As a result, scientists are continuously trying to find new ways to stop oral bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body. A recent study suggests that dental restoratives and other filling materials can help fight tooth decay when antibacterial ingredients are added. An article published in the...

Video sponsored by Cetylite. Kara RDH discusses and demonstrates the features, benefits and technique to use non-injectable Cetacaine Liquid (benzocaine 14%, butamben 2%, tetracaine HCl 2%) in patients, for long lasting anesthesia to the mucous membrane for soft tissue periodontal treatments. A Cetacaine Liquid 30g bottle treats up to 300 quadrants for less than $2 per dose. Anesthesia takes effect...

Malocclusion is defined as “irregular contact of opposing teeth in the upper and lower jaws.”1 Most people with minimal knowledge of dentistry view it as an esthetic problem and not an oral health problem. Not only are there oral health implications, but general health can be affected too. It is estimated that about 65% of the U.S. population has...

A feeling of dread settles within you, and tears are falling. The summer break is over, and it’s time to think about dental hygiene classes again. The upcoming return to the campus always comes too quickly. There’s never enough time for the pool, reading for leisure, or afternoon naps. Unfortunately, there are goals to be met, material to cram...

Dear inquisitive hygienist minds as well as current and future patients, Throughout the years, I have been humorously entertained during many conversations about the dental hygiene profession. I have even been questioned personally about my credentials. I feel the need to help lay your curiosity to rest. Better yet, I hope to help you feel more confident in your dental...

A study and subsequent articles recently cited lower IQ measurements for children whose mothers ingested fluoride during pregnancy, creating a paranoid frenzy among parents. The article stated that the ingestion of fluoridated water by an expectant mother decreased the IQ of the child by 2.5 points on a 200-point IQ test scale.1 The study in question is deeply flawed. Please...

What do we really know about toothpaste abrasion? I always thought the relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) was a key factor when choosing toothpaste for our patients, hoping that the amount of recession as well as the overall wear on enamel would be reduced. Shock! I was so wrong! The RDA was simply a test designed in 1976 to determine abrasion...

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For some, a dental appointment is a fearfully, dreaded appointment; while others don’t mind or even eagerly anticipate the appointment. However, no matter which side of the fence you are on it seems to be a mutual consensus that no one enjoys dental X-rays, and many are confused why they are even necessary. Often, dental professionals are questioned about...