(by Katrina Sanders, RDH, BSDH, M.Ed, RF, FDSI ) Knowing the difference between ‘should’ and elevated patient care is key for hygienists. I won’t get into the details of it, but let’s just say that the inspiration for this article came from a recent lunch I had with a colleague and fellow dental hygienist. Naturally, between bites of salad and …
Orthodontics: Combining Technology and a Holistic Approach
(by Catherine Murphy, DDS, MSD ) Orthodontics is more than straightening teeth. It also addresses modification of facial growth, referred to as dentofacial orthopedics. The holistic approach to orthodontics goes another step further: shifting the way the malocclusion is being addressed. Traditionally, the crooked teeth/bad bite/spacing/etc. are viewed as the primary problem(s) and alignment is the answer. The mindset shift …
Spotting Trouble: How to Spot More than Just Oral Issues Your Patients are Facing
(by Brandi Hooker Evans, RDH-ER, MHE, MAADH) Here’s the thing Hygiene Team: now more than ever before, our patients need us. And sadly, our picking and scratching ain’t gonna do the whole trick. Don’t get me wrong, the hand scaling, polishing, and my personal favorite: ultrasonicking are all super important, but the superb plaque and calculus removal simply isn’t enough. …