Maryanne Ferree, RDH, BS, PHDHP

Dental professionals and patients are exposed to various eye hazards during dental procedures. While the risk of infection or injury might not always seem obvious, combining high-speed tools, chemicals, and light sources such as lasers and curing lights makes comprehensive eye protection critical in the dental field. The potential consequences of not using eye protection can be severe, including corneal abrasions, punctures, chemical burns, and even irreversible eye damage. This article will explore common types of eye injuries, types of lenses suitable for various dental equipment, and criteria for selecting appropriate protective eyewear for both healthcare providers and patients.

Types of Eye Injuries in Dental Settings

Eye injuries in dental practices can be broadly categorized into four main types: trauma, infectious, impact, and chemical injuries.

International Infection Prevention Week, a celebration of those safeguarding our health, occurs from October 13 to the 19th of 2024. Established in 1986, the week 'aims to shine a light on infection prevention' each year, recognizing those who make infection prevention their professional focus. As we approach International Infection Prevention Week 2024, we must acknowledge and honor the indispensable role of infection preventionists worldwide. From hospitals and clinics to community settings, these committed individuals are at the forefront, ensuring our health is protected by preventing and controlling infections. This year's theme, Moving the Needle on Infection Prevention, underscores the significance of their work and brings attention to an often-overlooked area: dental infection prevention and control.

Dental Infection Prevention and Control

Periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, is primarily caused by microbial infection. While traditional mechanical therapies, such as scaling and root planing (SRP), effectively reduce bacterial load and inflammation, they may not fully eliminate the periodontal pathogens, particularly in deeper periodontal pockets.  The management of periodontal disease often requires a multifaceted approach that includes mechanical debridement, patient education, and adjunctive therapies. Among these, combination therapy, mainly systemic and local antimicrobials, has gained traction as a strategy to enhance clinical outcomes.

Combination Therapy

Combination therapy is the simultaneous or sequential use of multiple treatment modalities to achieve a synergistic effect. This approach targets

Artificial and Augmented Intelligence is making a splash in the news and social media. AI tools used to produce music, AI to access information, and AI writing tools that generate letters, business reports, and other documents have increased the efficiency and productivity of professional life. The dental field has also been impacted. The ability to include AI in analyzing dental images, aiding in diagnosis, and improving patient care can be a game changer, but with the technology comes the responsibility of ethical implementation and protecting patients' rights.

American Dental Association (ADA) News reports that, on average, 50% of dentists said new technology, such as intraoral scanners, new radiographic imaging systems, and 3-D printing, would revolutionize their practice. This new technology lends itself to using AI to interpret the results of diagnostic tools.

Forensic odontology, also known as forensic dentistry, is a specialized field of dentistry that involves the proper handling and examination of dental evidence to identify human remains and assist in criminal or disaster investigations. Forensic odontologists also play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by using their expertise in dentistry to provide valuable information that can help solve abuse or death cases. The forensic odontologist assists legal authorities by examining dental evidence. The dentist and the dental practice have some responsibility to aid in the identity and examination process by retaining accurate records of their patients in the unlikely situation that one of the patients in the practice may need to be identified post-mortem.

There are three significant areas of activity in forensic odontology:

1. The examination

Dental blogs provide dental students with a unique and enriching additional learning method to traditional dental school education. These online platforms serve as a valuable resource for students, offering a distinct perspective to enhance their education and expand their knowledge in the field. While traditional learning methods such as textbooks and lectures are undoubtedly important, dental blogs offer a unique lens that adds depth and dimension to the student experience.

One key benefit of dental blogs is their accuracy. Blogs are written by experienced dentists or dental professionals who have real-world experience in the field. This real-world experience allows students to gain insights and practical tips they may not find in traditional academic sources. By reading these blogs, students can gain a more holistic understanding of dentistry and learn about the latest

Dental tooth whitening has surged in popularity, thanks partly to the influence of social media and selfie culture. A bright, white smile is often seen as a symbol of good dental hygiene and overall attractiveness. This article delves into the science behind dental tooth whitening, exploring the various methods and mechanisms involved.

Types of Tooth Discoloration

Before exploring the science of tooth whitening, we must understand that tooth discoloration is common. Discoloration refers to any change in the color or transparency of a tooth. There are two main categories of tooth discoloration: extrinsic and intrinsic, or a combination of both. Extrinsic stains are surface stains that occur on the outer layer of the tooth enamel and are often caused by factors such as smoking, coffee, tea, and red wine consumption. Reducing the consumption of these

In today's fast-paced world, where diseases and infections spread alarmingly fast, proper hand hygiene is more crucial than ever. Failure to maintain proper hand hygiene can have serious consequences, leading to the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, norovirus, and influenza. One organization in healthcare stands out as a global leader in disease prevention and health promotion: the World Health Organization (WHO).

The WHO stands by a mission to achieve the highest possible level of health for all people. The WHO tirelessly works towards ensuring that healthcare standards are upheld worldwide. They provide resources, guidelines, and training programs to healthcare professionals and the general public to ensure proper hand hygiene practices. They collaborate with governments, international partners, and non-governmental organizations to raise awareness and promote the importance of hand hygiene. The World Health Organization

Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, occurs when the salivary glands in the mouth do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. This lack of saliva can lead to discomfort, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and an increased risk of oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Aging, medications, and medical conditions can also contribute to dry mouth. Assessing the reasons for xerostomia by a thorough medical history and examination will aid us in determining possible interventions to ease and manage the manifestations of the syndrome for our patients.

Function of Saliva

Saliva serves many purposes; it lubricates food and tissues, dilutes and clears sugars, protects tissues, clears dietary acids through swallowing, neutralizes and buffers acids, and balances the demineralization-remineralization process of teeth.

Face masks have become a common sight for the human population, especially since the Covid-19 global pandemic hit in 2020. At the beginning of the pandemic, public health agencies were hesitant to recommend the consistent use of face masks. The general public was also uncertain of what to believe. To mask or not to mask, this was the question. However, after the World Health Organization acknowledged that the virus could be airborne and linger in the air for hours, masking as a weapon against the coronavirus became a preventive measure to keep virus transmission in check. It was not unusual to see face masks hanging from every car rearview mirror, offered at the entrance to every business, or mandated at every work environment. Face coverings became a fashion statement when people made cloth face coverings in many styles and fabrics. This cloth covering was acceptable for the general public and is considered a form of universal source control.