Bridging the gap between topical gels and injectable carpules for a new standard in patient comfort and efficiency

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LQS: The missing link in dental anesthesia Introduction: Rethinking the anesthetic spectrum in dentistry For decades, dental anesthesia has existed in two distinct categories: topical anesthetics, which provide mild surface numbing, and injectable anesthetics (carpules), which deliver profound anesthesia but require a needle. Until now, there has been no middle ground—no option that could deliver … Read more

Local anesthetics, adverse events and dental practice

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Local anesthetics (LAs) are indispensable in dental practice, providing effective pain management for many procedures. Their administration is generally safe; however, dentists must remain vigilant regarding potential adverse events, some of which, though rare, can be severe. This article delves into the safe use of local anesthetics in dentistry, emphasizing the importance of preventing and … Read more

The best way to educate your dental patients about new technology

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According to our 2024 survey of Canadian dental patients, over half of respondents do not feel aware of new dental technologies or procedures, and they have even less awareness of how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in the dental office. This is a huge problem. If patients don’t understand the procedures and technology being … Read more

AI in dentistry: Complementary, not competitive

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Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly permeated various aspects of our lives, and its influence in the field of dentistry is on the rise. While some may view AI as a potential replacement for human dental professionals, it is crucial to understand that AI is not a substitute for the human mind. Instead, AI serves as … Read more

The harsh truth about selling (or buying) a dental practice

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A strategic guide for dentists who want to sell, buy, or simply build a profitable, walkaway-ready practice Dentists ask me all the time—”With rising tariffs, inflation, and economic uncertainty… what’s going to happen to the dental practice market?” My answer? It hasn’t changed in 20 years. Because at the core of every dental market shift—whether … Read more

Outcomes of using Motivational Interviewing to address nail-biting habits

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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

Using Motivational Interviewing and the Transtheoretical Model to halt early cavities in elite athletes

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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

The dental hygienist as researcher

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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

Undertaking an action research project as a dental hygienist

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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

What’s ahead for marketing your practice on social

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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

Office space: Bedford Periodontics

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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

It’s like looking into the future of dentistry

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“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

AI is revolutionizing healthcare — but is your patient data safe?

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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

Dental stocks downgraded? Here is everything you need to know as a dentist

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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

U.S. tariffs and Canadian dentistry: How to shield your practice

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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

Insights from an RDH: How to foster lasting patient relationships

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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

The unexpected path from dental hygiene to orthodontic education

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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

Fluoride: When, where, why

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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

Selling in uncertain times?  Lawyer up and find your peace

Deals still get done—even when the world feels upside down. With the right team and mindset, you can sell your practice on your terms, no matter what’s happening out there.

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