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

Infection control in dentistry is critical to ensuring dental practitioners' and patients' health and safety. With the rise of infectious diseases and the need for stringent practices to prevent their spread, compliance with infection control protocols is of utmost importance in the dental industry. However, achieving full compliance can be challenging, as healthcare providers may demonstrate the Hawthorne effect, impacting their behavior and adherence to recommended guidelines. This article explores the concept of the Hawthorne effect in relation to infection control in dentistry and discusses strategies to ensure effective compliance.

The Hawthorne effect, initially discovered through a series of studies in the 1920s and 1930s at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works in Chicago, refers to the phenomenon where people modify their behavior due to the awareness or perception of being observed. In the context of infection control

Introduction

Aphthous ulcers, also known as canker sores, are a type of mouth ulcer many experience at some point in their lives. While they may seem harmless, these ulcers can cause significant pain and discomfort, making chewing, speech, and oral home care difficult. Despite their common occurrence, the exact cause of aphthous ulcers remains a mystery, and there is no known cure. This blog will delve into the unseen pain of aphthous ulcers, exploring their symptoms, potential causes, and available treatments. Understanding this condition can help provide much-needed relief and support for our patients.

What is an aphthous ulcer?

Oral aphthosis is a painful and recurring inflammatory process of the oral mucosa producing ulcers affecting 20-25% of the population worldwide.