How Dental Teams Can Close the Gap in Transgender Oral Health
As of February 2025, the transgender population makes up roughly 2.3 million or 1% of the United States population.1 As this population grows, oral health professionals…
Providing Safe and Compassionate Care for Trauma Survivors
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a lifelong psychiatric condition that may develop after traumatic, life-threatening, or unsettling incidents that elicit emotional or physical harm.1-3 Common causes…
Expand Dental Hygiene Practice With Neuromodulators
The incorporation of neuromodulators into dental hygiene practice has gained traction in recent years, reflecting a broader trend toward integrative approaches in dental care.1 No longer…
Exercise May Be the Missing Link in the Fight Against Musculoskeletal Disorders
Dental hygienists often experience repetitive strain injuries.1-13 The upper extremities, neck, and back regions of the body are often overexerted, sustained in static postures for long…
Research Skills Are the Clinical Superpower of Dental Hygiene
Developing a strong understanding of research concepts and applying them effectively to clinical dental hygiene practice are skills that evolve through continuous learning, critical thinking,…
Povidone-Iodine May Be Dentistry’s Most Overlooked Antimicrobial
Povidone iodine (PVP-I), also known as betadine, is a combination of iodine and polyvinylpyrrolidone, a stabilizer. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes PVP-I formulations on…
The Hidden Sleep Disorder Linked to Oral and Systemic Health
Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (POSA) occurs in 1% to 6% of children, making it a significant public health concern.1 POSA can be linked to a variety…
How the Epstein-Barr Virus Impacts Periodontal Health
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the human herpesvirus IV family, is a widespread and impactful pathogen with a complex history.1 Recognized in 1968, EBV…
When Cancer Treatment Affects the Mouth
Dental hygienists are uniquely positioned to identify, assess, and contribute to the management of complex oral manifestations of systemic diseases and their treatments. Among the…