Public Health

Serious Infections May Have Been Spread in Unlicensed Dental Office

After shutting down an unlicensed dental office in a southwest residence last week, Alberta Health Services is asking anyone who received services there to be tested for several serious viruses, including HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. “Our investigation has shown there was not appropriate cleaning of instruments. Whoever accessed services here might have been exposed … Read more

“Oral Health for Total Health” Focused During Dental Hygienists Week

National Dental Hygienists Week™ (NDHW™) takes place from April 8‒14 as part of oral health month in Canada.  During that week, which emphasizes “Oral Health for Total Health,” dental hygienists remind us all that taking care of our mouth, teeth, and gums benefits our overall physical and mental well-being. Dental hygienists are primary health care … Read more

Good Dental Hygiene and Nutritious Diet are Directly Linked

During National Nutrition Month this March, dental hygienists—your partners in prevention—remind everyone of the important link between proper nutrition and oral health. Dental hygienists see first-hand how poor diet and nutrition can affect a person’s oral and overall health.  Foods high in sugar, such as candy, sweet baked goods, and carbonated drinks, may contribute to … Read more

Global Survey Releases Truth About Public’s Oral Health Habits

Today on World Oral Health Day, FDI World Dental Federation is myth busting what people around the world believe to be good oral health practices, encouraging them to become better informed and take action. Oral health is integral to our general health and well-being; impacting every aspect of our lives. The results from a survey … Read more

National Dental Hygienists Week (NDHW) is April 8-14

National Dental Hygienists Week™ (NDHW™) takes place from April 8‒14 as part of oral health month in Canada.  During that week, which emphasizes “Oral Health for Total Health,” dental hygienists remind us all that taking care of our mouth, teeth, and gums benefits our overall physical and mental well-being. Dental hygienists are primary health care … Read more

Australian Adults’ Oral Health Under Review in 2017

The first national study of oral health will examine the gums and teeth of 15,000 Australians during the next 12 months. Launched on Tuesday, the $5.8 million study will be conducted by researchers at the Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health (ARCPOH) at the University of Adelaide in partnership with federal and state governments. … Read more

Health Smiles Ontario Serving Dental Care to 85,000 Children

You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again: you have to take care of your teeth and see your dentist. But, if you don’t have dental coverage, an appointment to see the dentist can get pretty expensive. So, Ontario has made it easier for families to send their children to the dentist. The Healthy … Read more

Canadian Emergency Rooms Seeing Too Many Dental Cases

If dental care was publicly funded, fewer people would become addicted to opioids. That’s just one of the reasons Dr. Hasan Sheikh, an emergency room physician in Toronto, is calling on governments to expand medicare. Another reason? Doctors don’t know how to fix teeth. But because not all Canadians can afford to go to the … Read more

Dental Hygienists Show Support for Canada’s Heart Month

February is Heart Month in Canada and a perfect opportunity to raise awareness of the risks of cardiovascular (heart) disease and stroke and the importance of making better lifestyle choices for optimal health. Dental hygienists are strong supporters of this public education campaign and remind Canadians not to overlook their oral health when seeking to … Read more

Teledentistry Found to Increase Patient’s Access to Dental Services

Teledentistry is emerging as a practical solution for patients living in rural areas, according to a new report by researchers at the University at Albany. The Oral Health Workforce Research Center (OHWRC) at the Center for Health Workforce Studies (CHWS) recently published “Case Studies of 6 Teledentistry Programs: Strategies to Increase Access to General and Specialty Dental Services,” summarizing … Read more

Canadian City 500 Kilometers from Closest Dental Facility

Dawson City is without community dental services — and without a dental facility — and some residents are now calling on the government for help. “A lot of people are upset,” said Dawson City resident Angela Rear. “I do have a friend who has a very bad situation with his mouth right now.” Rear herself … Read more

Calgary Dental Health Bus Helping 2,200 Youth, But It’s Not Enough

Even for Albertans fortunate enough to have health benefits, high fees often push dental care to the back burner. That’s why programs such as the Alex Dental Health Bus, which provides no-cost dental care for low-income families and youth in need, are struggling to satisfy growing dental demand in the city. Denise Kokaram, program lead for the … Read more

Hygienists Urge Patients to Quit During National Non-Smoking Week

Research shows that smoking can damage every part of the body, including the mouth, causing life-threatening cancers and chronic diseases.  During National Non-Smoking Week (January 15‒21), dental hygienists across Canada remind us all of the need to eliminate tobacco use for better oral and overall health. Dental hygienists are skilled in health promotion, disease detection, … Read more

Alzheimer Drug Found to Help in Repairing Tooth Damage

Fillings could be consigned to history after scientists discovered that a drug already in Alzheimer’s patients can encourage tooth regrowth and repair cavities. Researchers at King’s College London found that the drug Tideglusib stimulates the stem cells contained in the pulp of teeth so that they generate new dentine – the mineralised material under the enamel. Teeth already have … Read more

Care Homes Should Prioritize Oral Health for Patients

Care homes should assess, record and help residents maintain their oral health. A new draft quality standard out for consultation advises care home staff to assess the oral health needs of their residents on admission and record these in personal care plans. They should then be supported to clean their teeth twice a day or … Read more

Dental Visit Recommended to Scuba Divers Prior to Underwater Trips

Scuba divers may want to stop by their dentist’s office before taking their next plunge. A new pilot study found that 41 percent of divers experienced dental symptoms in the water, according to new research from the University at Buffalo. Due to the constant jaw clenching and fluctuations in the atmospheric pressure underwater, divers may … Read more

New Tax on Health and Dental Plans Have Major Pros and Cons

Reports that the upcoming federal budget will announce the government’s plan to tax employer-provided health and dental insurance have generated considerable buzz in Ottawa. It would be a significant change that would affect millions of Canadians and involve billions of dollars. But it could be an idea worth supporting, including by free-market proponents. Here’s the … Read more

More Warnings are Released About the Use of Electronic Cigarettes

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy released a new report that presents research and policy recommendations on electronic cigarettes and their use among adolescents and young adults. The report, which was reviewed by 150 experts, highlights some of the risks associated with using electronic cigarettes, including nicotine addiction, behavior risks – including the use of other drugs … Read more

Dental Hygienists Should Be Essential Primary Care Providers, Says ADHA

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) is pleased that Health Affairs recognizes the enormous impact oral health has on the overall public health system in the U.S. by devoting an entire issue to the subject. ADHA has long advocated evidence-based oral health management strategies for the prevention of oral and systemic diseases. In fact, ongoing … Read more