This research paper explores the effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) in addressing and assisting participants in overcoming nail-biting habits. The study aimed to understand how MI could be used as a behavioural intervention to support individuals in making positive changes regarding this common yet challenging habit. The outcomes of the study were notably positive. Motivational … Read more
An elite athlete presented with multiple areas of incipient interproximal caries. Through ongoing learning of behaviour modification techniques and evidence-based decision-making, incorporating the patient’s goals and preferences, the latest research, and clinician expertise were imperative. Initially, my participant presented with a high caries risk assessment and an initial Plaque Index of 68%. Reducing his risk … Read more
Roles of the dental hygienist The key responsibilities of dental hygienists1 include health promotion, education, clinical therapy, research, change agent, and administration. We are familiar with some of these roles, especially clinical therapist and educator. The roles of researcher and change agent are not as widely fulfilled, yet they are vital to advance the profession and … Read more
Have you ever considered undertaking your own action research project? It’s an intriguing concept, isn’t it? We engage in research daily, often without even realizing it. At rdhu, we encourage our members to plan their year around topics that truly interest them. We offer complimentary webinars designed to spark curiosity and leave you eager to delve … Read more
It began when a woman with visible cavities on her front teeth came in for a consultation but did not schedule treatment. Months later, she returned with her child, who had some dental coverage. “While she was feeding the child, we asked if she had made her own appointment,” recalled Dr. Raj Khanuja. “And this … Read more
As a new graduate, a major career question that arises after your initial years of practice is deciding whether to own a clinic or continue as an associate. Once you opt for clinic ownership, the million-dollar question is choosing between starting a new dental practice or acquiring an existing one. Both options offer distinct advantages … Read more
Next Gen of the Month is a monthly Q&A with a dental student or new dentist where we ask them about their experiences and accomplishments thus far in their dentistry journey. This month we are featuring Dr. Daniel Richmond, a recent orthodontics graduate working on opening his own practice. Dr. Richmond is Oral Health’s Orthodontics Editorial Board … Read more
If I were starting out in practice today, there are certain items I have come to realize that are must haves that allow me to perform at the highest level to insure optimal treatment outcomes. In most cases, I have chosen these items based on the criteria of being faster, easier, and better for me, … Read more
Trends to watch for…GenAI and more! We like to say that online marketing for your dental practice is a sum of many parts. If one part is “lagging,” it can bring down the “whole.” Likewise, when one component is on the rise, it can help to support and lift all—resulting in the biggest return on … Read more
The why: Background story As beautifully designed dental clinics emerge across the country, Dr. Erin Nowe has created something truly special—an environment where expert care, intentional design, and a deep sense of purpose come together. Being born and raised in Oakfield, Nova Scotia, Dr. Nowe decided to remain close to her roots by completing her dental … Read more
“I had never seen this before.” That’s how Dr. Peter Fritz, one of our esteemed Oral Health Board members, described a new robotic toothbrush device at the recent International Dental Show (IDS) in Cologne, Germany. I was fortunate to witness Dr. Fritz’s reaction as I attended IDS in March alongside three other board members. The … Read more
Artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare before our eyes. A key benefit is faster, more accurate diagnosis both in routine care and for more serious concerns, such as 3D dental imaging and computed tomography scanning used to examine thyroid tumours. There are many examples where medical care is benefiting from advanced technology using AI to assist … Read more
If you’re a practicing dentist in Canada, it’s easy to dismiss the headlines about Henry Schein orDentsply Sirona getting downgraded on Wall Street. After all, you’re not a portfolio manager—you’rerunning a clinic, managing patients, and likely balancing corporate and personal finances. So, the realquestion is: should you care about what’s happening with dental stocks? The … Read more
The recent imposition of U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports, including critical dental products such as composite resins, metal alloys, digital scanners, and even consumer goods like toothpaste and dental floss, poses significant economic and public health challenges for Canada’s dental industry.1 Canada heavily relies on U.S. imports for essential dental equipment and materials, meaning these … Read more
As a registered dental hygienist with fourteen years of experience, one of the most fulfilling and rewarding aspects of my career is the relationships that I have built with my patients and their families. Not only do I have the privilege of following a patient’s journey to improving their oral health, but I also get … Read more
Hygiene Spotlight features an exceptional dental hygienist every month. This month, we are showcasing Liisa Moore, RDH, a practicing dental hygienist turned educator. Liisa is a core presenter and Quality Assurance coach with RDHU. She also considers herself a fitness enthusiast. When not at the office, she is a Certified Personal Trainer, Pilates instructor, and healthy eating … Read more
Treating children, not treat Fluoride dental treatment has been around for about 75 years, serving hundreds of millions of people without any proof of detrimental effects, unless over ingested. The great majority of cases being dental fluorosis. Fluoride works on the dental complex in three essential ways. But there are two modes of action: systemic … Read more
The outside world seems to be combusting nowadays: Countries are engaged in tariff wars. Stock markets are extremely volatile. Conflict rages on in Ukraine and the Middle East. Global climate change impacts our daily lives. AI is sparking ethical debates. We’re in the midst of a very close federal election. Residential real estate sales across … Read more
Every dentist wants more new patients, but not every practice knows where they’re really coming from—or how to consistently bring them in. In today’s digital world, the answer isn’t in billboards, radio ads, or local coupon books. It’s online, where nearly all patient journeys begin. Where new patients actually come from According to BrightEdge Research, … Read more
Access to quality dental care remains a significant challenge for populations living in remote areas. Geographic isolation, high costs, and socioeconomic disparities often prevent individuals from receiving timely oral healthcare, leading to severe long-term consequences. Traditional dentistry struggles to bridge this gap due to limited infrastructure and workforce shortages. However, advancements in Teledentistry, accelerated by … Read more