Tobacco Cessation
This paper highlights the significant concern healthcare providers, particularly dental hygienists, have regarding tobacco products, including the rising use of electronic cigarettes. It emphasizes the importance of educating patients, especially the younger generation, about the risks associated with smoking, including its detrimental effects on oral health. The text stresses the duty of dental professionals to promote tobacco cessation and inform patients about the harmful ingredients in electronic cigarettes, as well as their associated health risks such as periodontal disease and other systemic issues. It also discusses strategies for effectively communicating with patients about quitting smoking, emphasizing empathy and understanding. Ultimately, the paper advocates the importance of tobacco cessation interventions in dental practice to safeguard patients’ overall health.
Ranula (floor of mouth)
This paper was for my oral pathology class, I had the oppurtunity to research and write about ranulas. Since we are working in the mouth it is important we know our oral pathology so we can treat our patient accordingly. This paper informs readers about the origin of the oral lesion, and where we may see this type of lesion. Ranulas are fluid-filled cysts that typically develop beneath the tongue due to saliva leakage from damaged salivary glands. They often manifest as painless swellings, gradually growing until noticed by the patient. While benign, ranulas can cause discomfort and require treatment. They form when saliva accumulates outside salivary glands, often due to blockages or injury, with the sublingual gland being a common site. Diagnosis involves various methods like fine needle aspiration cytology or imaging scans. Ranulas may resemble other cysts or lesions, making accurate diagnosis important for appropriate treatment. Treatment typically involves removing the associated salivary gland, with marsupialization being a common procedure. Recurrence rates vary depending on the method used, with excision of the sublingual gland alongside the ranula being the most effective. Untreated ranulas can pose risks, including airway obstruction, particularly in newborns. Dental hygienists play a crucial role in identifying and managing oral lesions like ranulas to ensure optimal patient care and health.
Term project “Dollars and Dentists”
The dental healthcare system in the United States faces significant challenges, including limited access to care, lack of education, and financial barriers. These issues are highlighted in the PBS documentary “Dollars and Dentists,” the New York Times article discussing post-COVID-19 impacts on oral hygiene, and the Journal of Dental Hygiene’s examination of oral healthcare access and its effects on vulnerable populations, particularly children. The documentary reveals systemic problems such as patients unable to afford treatment and the focus over profit over patient care. Dental professionals advocate for improved education on oral hygiene and emphasize the importance of preventive care. The COVID-19 pandemic increased already existing issues, leading to more cavities and gum disease due to changes in diet and loss of insurance coverage. However, innovative solutions like telecommunication for remote supervision of oral care offer potential avenues for improvement. Ultimately, addressing these systemic issues requires an effort from both healthcare providers and patients to prioritize education and preventive care alongside treatment.
Efficacy of oil pulling therapy with coconut oil on four-day supragingival plaque growth: A randomized crossover clinical trial.
The article reviewed a randomized crossover clinical trial conducted at Baskent University to explore alternative methods for reducing plaque with minimal side effects. The study compared the plaque inhibiting effects of oil pulling to chlorhexidine rinse, a common antiseptic mouthwash known for taste disturbance and staining. Twenty-nine participants were involved, meeting specific criteria and receiving thorough dental cleaning before the trial. They were randomly assigned to use either chlorhexidine or coconut oil for four days, followed by a washout period. Both groups underwent dental examinations, and questionnaires were administered to assess their experiences with each product. Results showed no significant difference in plaque reduction between chlorhexidine and oil pulling, although chlorhexidine caused more staining. Participants generally preferred oil pulling despite its longer rinsing time. The study concluded that while oil pulling may offer benefits such as non-staining and fewer allergic reactions, further research is needed to explore its efficacy and potential as a natural alternative to chlorhexidine. This research is valuable for dental hygiene practice, offering insights into alternative oral care methods and prompting consideration of patient preferences and needs.
