Latest Inside Dental Hygiene News

ADEA and MouthWatch Introduce Patti DiGangi Scholarship

The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) and MouthWatch, LLC recently announced the creation of the “ADEA/MouthWatch Patti DiGangi Scholarship for Dental Hygiene Innovation.” The scholarship provides financial assistance to dental hygiene students to help them achieve their academic and professional goals.

ADEA, MouthWatch, and countless others in the dental industry recognize DiGangi as a trailblazer, mentor, and oral health advocate who is dedicated to expanding and advancing career opportunities for dental hygienists.

“Patti’s passion for dental hygiene and her commitment to excellence have led her to mentor countless others to help them reach their full potential,” ADEA spokesperson Eric Lund says. “This scholarship was named in her honor to recognize dental hygiene students who share and express Patti’s desire to transform oral health through leadership and innovative care delivery.”

MouthWatch Founder and CEO Brant Herman adds: “Patti was at the forefront of dental hygiene years before we first met. She not only understood the current state of dental hygiene and dentistry, but also saw the bigger picture of improved patient care across every step of the patient journey. We wanted to honor her vision and support the next generation of hygiene leaders who want to play an active part in shaping the future.”

Upon learning about the scholarship created in her name, DiGangi said, “I’m deeply moved by this recognition because innovation has been my life’s mission. I believe that out-of-the-box thinking and action can change the world. I hope this scholarship will be a catalyst for progressive ideas that will chart the future of oral health in a positive way."

The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to an individual who is pursuing dental hygiene at the associate, baccalaureate or master’s degree level. To be eligible, dental hygiene students must be an ADEA member, have completed at least 1 year of an accredited dental hygiene program and be in good academic standing. The deadline for applying is November 1, 2021, and the winner will be announced during the ADEA Annual Session and Exhibition, March 19-22, 2022. For full details on scholarship requirements and how to apply, visit https://www.adea.org/studentawards/MouthWatch-Patti-DiGangi-Scholarship-Hygiene-Innovation/

Spry Toothpaste Announces New, Improved Formula

Spry toothpaste (Xlear Inc.) announced a new, more effective formula based on new research. A new study, published in the Journal of Dentistry, concludes the combination of fluoride and nanosized trimetaphosphate (TMP) more effectively hardens teeth against damage and decay than fluoride alone.

Studies show poor dental hygiene is linked to increase risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and even infectious disease illnesses. Stronger teeth, and enhanced gum health, are critical to overall wellness.

“One of the best and easiest ways to stay healthy is to use a more effective toothpaste for maintaining your teeth and oral health. An oral care regime that includes TMP to further strengthen the enamel and xylitol to reduce the acid creating bacteria is what really works according to peer-reviewed, published research,” says Mark Cannon, DDS, MS, a Professor at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, in Chicago.

The Study concludes: The TMP toothpaste “promoted a greater protective effect against enamel demineralization and significantly affected the composition of biofilm formed in situ compared to [1100 ppm fluoride] toothpaste.” As reflected in the chart at illustration A, the TMP/Fluoride compound makes teeth harder at a much greater enamel depth than other toothpastes, including fluoride toothpaste. The Study also found that TMP: “raise[s] fluoride and led to higher calcium in [tooth] enamel”; reduced the cariogenicity and increased calcium and phosphate in the biofilm (the bacterial colonies of the mouth); and, “provide[d] toothpastes with less contribution to fluoride intake in children.”

For decades, Americans have relied on fluoride—in our water, in toothpaste—to help prevent tooth decay, harden teeth, improve dental health, and enhance overall wellness. We use fluoride to the point where 40% of our teenagers have fluorosis: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-says-too-much-fluoride-in-water/.

In addition, the CDC has warned health providers to limit the use of fluoride due to the shocking data that more than 38% of children consume too much fluoride toothpaste: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6804a3.htm. “Analysis of 2013–2016 data found that >38% of children aged 3–6 years used more toothpaste than that recommended by CDC and other professional organizations.”

In addition to fluoride, Spry includes xylitol, erythritol, and nano trimetaphosphate (nTMP). Xylitol is a five-carbon sugar, a natural carbohydrate that occurs freely in plants (for example, in fruits, such as blueberries, strawberries and plums) and is produced in the human body from Vitamin C and by other natural pathways.

The Journal of Dentistry study shows that the new ingredients in Spry toothpaste are significantly more effective than typical fluoride toothpastes,” says Nathan Jones, CEO of Xlear, the maker of new, more effective Spry. “Brush your way to better health with Spry,” Jones concluded.

Spry is available at leading retailers across the nation, including Wegmans, The Vitamin Shoppe, Sprouts Farmers Markets, Natural Grocers, and most all Natural market retailers. It can also be purchased online, including on Amazon.

The Journal of Dentistry study can be found here: Journal of Dentistry Dental Health Study

VOCO Launches Two Adult-themed Profluorid Varnish Flavors

VOCO is committed to overall oral health in both children and adults.

In an effort to encourage adult use, and ultimately elevate the level of oral health nationwide, VOCO has introduced two new flavors of its popular fluoride varnish line, Profluorid Varnish: Cola Lime and Pina Colada. While Profluorid Varnish flavors such as Bubblegum and Caramel are intended to assist hygienists in inspiring children to get excited about fluoride varnish treatments, these two new flavors, while indicated for all ages, offer alternatives to achieve a similar effect on adults.

VOCO’s Profluorid Varnish, indicated as a desensitizer, has been putting smiles on patient faces since its introduction to the US market in 2009. With its low film thickness, subtle, great-tasting flavors, and smooth feel, Profluorid Varnish quickly gained popularity throughout North America and became one of the leading brands of fluoride varnish with dentists, hygienists, and patients. With the addition of these new flavors, adult and pediatric patients alike can now choose between mint, melon, cherry, bubblegum, caramel, cola lime, and pina colada.

Sri Trang Group Accelerates COVID-19 inoculation Program

Pressing ahead with its campaign to provide inoculation to all Southeast Asia-based employees of the Sri Trang Group of Companies against COVID-19 with the Sinopharm vaccine, provided by the Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Sri Trang Gloves (Thailand) Pcl. reached its goal of 100% for its entire workforce of 11,000 employees in production plants and Southeast Asia offices. The second shots will be given at the end of July. Other companies in the group will continue their inoculation programs, where permitted, until the goal is achieved to demonstrate the group’s commitment to employee welfare.

Most recently, Veerasith Sinchareonkul, Executive Director of Sri Trang Agro-Industry Pcl. (STA), and Jarinya Jirojkul, CEO of Sri Trang Gloves (Thailand) Pcl. (STGT), pledged to implement the group’s ESG policy, which pays special attention to sustainability in business while treating employees with fairness in accordance with human rights and transparency principles. The companies have launched a COVID-19 vaccination program to all Southeast Asia-based employees and their family members as well as select employees of suppliers and trading partners. At the same time, the Sri Trang Group will continue earnestly to acquire additional doses of alternative vaccines for its employees and families in Thailand and abroad as well as select members in its supply chain to build confidence for all concerned and to help the countries overcome the current COVID-19 crisis as soon as possible.

New Hand Sanitizer Kills Germs BETWEEN Hand Washings

Ho Dental Company of Las Vegas, Nevada, is launching a new kind of hand sanitizer to the dental industry. One For All Foaming Hand Sanitizer is an alcohol-free formulation that does what 70% alcohol-based sanitizers can’t: It protects users for hours, in between hand washings. “Many people, including medical professionals, don’t realize that the minute alcohol sanitizer is dry, it stops providing protection,” says Phillip Ho, DMD, co-inventor of One for All hand sanitizer. “If you touch an infected surface, you need to reapply alcohol sanitizers. That’s impractical for daily use.”

One for All kills more than 99.9% bacteria, fungi, and viruses (including human coronavirus) in less than 15 seconds. Its active ingredient, benzalkonium chloride, is one of three FDA-compliant ingredients for hand sanitizers and kills germs on contact. One For All is fortified with patented Nanodex™ technology, which has been shown in laboratory testing to kill germs for up to 24 hours. Nanodex forms a long-lasting barrier on the skin that continues killing germs until it is washed off.

“One For All is a superior solution for dental and medical offices,” Ho says. “First, it can protect their staff, who are interacting with the public all day. Secondly, it can help protect their patients by limiting the spread of germs and bacteria in the dental office.”

In addition to providing superior protection, One For All boasts moisturizing properties to help healthcare professionals avoid the drying and cracking of skin that’s common with repeated use of alcohol-based sanitizers. The formula features Jojoba Oil, a natural moisturizer. Tea Tree and Rosemary Oils are natural biocides with skin-healing properties, and Vitamins C and E offer skin-rejuvenating benefits.

“One of the top complaints we hear about alcohol sanitizer is that it irritates the skin with repeated use. Painful, chapped and cracked skin is an opportunity for infection,” Ho says. “We formulated One For All to be soothing and supportive to the skin.”

One for All was developed by ACatechol, Inc., where Ho serves as Executive Vice President of Product Development. The ACatechol team includes internationally recognized scientists and clinicians. The company has been awarded with grants from both the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) to develop the next generation of sanitizers in the fight against infectious diseases such as COVID-19.

One For All Sanitizer is registered with the FDA and is manufactured in the USA at an FDA-registered facility. It is available online at hodentalcompany.com in 16.9-oz (500-ml) foam pump bottles for $19.99 MSRP. One For All is on sale for $17.99.

New Eco-Friendly Aspirator: Hygotip XL Bio

Hygotip® XL Bio is an environment-friendly aspirator fitting 16-mm systems. It is manufactured of autoclavable, bio-based plastic made of sugar canes. Unlike conventional plastics for which fossil raw materials such as oil and natural gas are used, sugar cane is a completely renewable resource.

The large diameter of 16 mm gives a high suction capacity and is more efficient to absorb the aerosols near the source. The sturdy design works as a tongue holder and allows retraction of the cheek, providing good accessibility.

Hygotip XL Bio is very patient-friendly, with the specially designed ventilation grooves at the connection point of the aspirator. This prevents it from getting stuck to the soft tissue with discomfort for the patient.

For more information, go to orsing.se.

DOVE Introduces AERO HVE Wide Mouth

DOVE® Dental Products announced the release of the new AERO HVE Wide Mouth—a single-use hybrid device designed to significantly reduce the risk of airborne aerosol movement caused by instrument use in a dental setting.

The AERO lineup now offers two innovative dental aerosol evacuation solutions that allow for maximum suction and aerosol collection without compromising patient comfort or professional workflow. In May 2020, DOVE introduced the AERO HVE Saliva Ejector, a device that combines high-volume evacuation to capture aerosols with a saliva ejector to capture liquids. The new Aero HVE Wide Mouth sets the standard in both safety and (HVE) High Volume Evacuation, offering a patent-pending, 22-mm swivel distal opening, lip-retraction, and three-hole external aerosol control. The innovative design enables closer evacuation management as well as outstanding airborne particle and debris control. Its unique full HVE evacuation valve provides complete backflow protection, which is a first in the industry. Each single-use device enhances patient safety, providing a simple, cost-effective solution for oral health professionals to reduce the spread of COVID-19 using traditional dental instrumentation.

“The DOVE AERO line will set a new industry standard for evacuation valves by providing the safest HVE solutions that snap on existing equipment,” says Jim Langeloh, DOVE's Vice President of Sales. “We continually speak with dentists, hygienists, and assistants about the challenges of adding tubing, mouthguards, large vacuums, shields, and other gadgets designed to treat patients. The AERO line increases patient safety and backflow prevention, prevents complicated working positions, and is easy to connect. More importantly, it follows CDC recommendations for aerosols management, controlling external aerosol evacuation up to 95%.”

VOCO Introduces Pina Colada Flavor of Profluorid Varnish

Profluorid® Varnish has been a success story since its introduction to the US market in 2009. With its low film thickness, subtle, great-tasting flavors, and smooth feel, Profluorid Varnish quickly gained US popularity and today is one of the leading brands of Fluoride Varnish with dentists, hygienists, and patients.

VOCO is now expanding its line of Profluorid Varnish flavors to include Pina Colada, the refreshing mix of pineapples and coconuts, to complement the current lineup of caramel, mint, cherry, bubblegum, melon, and cola lime. Packaged in the same easy-to-use SingleDose delivery system and providing the same quick uptake formulization, Profluorid Varnish’s great-tasting Pina Colada flavor is sure to expand on the success Profluorid Varnish has already enjoyed.

Survey: Less than 7% of US Dental Hygienists Have Had COVID-19

As of March 1, 6.8% of US dental hygienists surveyed by the American Dental Association and American Dental Hygienists’ Association had contracted COVID-19, lower than estimates for other health care workers and the general population, according to ongoing research by the associations.

The research team will discuss its latest findings on dental hygienist infection rates, infection control practices, employment rates, and vaccination statistics during a 1-hour webinar at 8 PM EDT May 4 titled “Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Hygienists: Ongoing Research Update.”

The associations previously published two studies in February in The Journal of Dental Hygiene using data as of October 2020. At that time, an estimated 3.1% of U.S. dental hygienists had contracted COVID-19.

Other new survey findings include:

• The percentage of dental hygienists who reported always wearing eye protection and a mask during non-aerosol-generating procedures increased from about 75% in late September 2020 to 82% in March. Between 62% and 65% of dental hygienists report wearing the recommended N95 or equivalent masks during aerosol-generating procedures.

• In early October 2020, about 8% of dental hygienists who had been employed as of March 1, 2020, were not working, 59% of them voluntarily. As of the first week of March 2021, 5.8% were not working as dental hygienists, 65% voluntarily.

• As of the first week of March, 52% of dental hygienists were fully vaccinated.

BISCO Introduces FluoroCal

BISCO introduced FluoroCal^TM, a fluoride- and calcium-releasing¹ varnish that is indicated for application to enamel and dentin for the treatment of hypersensitive teeth. FluoroCal delivers targeted and sustained release of calcium and fluoride for more than 24 hours,¹ and provides immediate relief of sensitivity by penetrating and sealing dentin tubules.

When tested, FluoroCal showed significantly higher fluoride uptake than other leading fluoride varnishes.² Additionally, FluoroCal contains Tri-Calcium Phosphate (TCP), which studies have shown may help strengthen enamel and build more acid-resistant mineral when combined with fluoride.³

FluoroCal is available in a refreshing Spearmint flavor and sweetened with Xylitol, further ensuring better patient compliance. It can be purchased in a 50 count unit-dose package, with each unit-dose container being simple and easy to open. It is applied with a brush, which allows for fast and easy application.

¹As tested in deionized water.

²BISCO has, on file, the fluoride uptake data for FluoroCal.

³Li X. The remineralisation of enamel: a review of the literature. J Dent. 2014;42:S12–S20. doi: 10.1016/S0300-5712(14)50003-6.

Waterpik® Lets You Unplug For 4 Weeks

WATERPIK®, category leader and inventor of the original water flosser, introduced the new WATERPIK ION water flosser, designed to provide an amazing clean, unplugged. WATERPIK ION was thoughtfully designed to offer full-size countertop performance and pressure in a convenient cordless design, providing 90 seconds of continuous flossing time without the need for refills. While traditional cordless water flossers typically have smaller water reservoirs and slightly lower overall water pressure, this new innovation provides users with the ultimate cordless experience, while still delivering on maximum performance.

The new WATERPIK ION water flosser is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to 4 weeks per single charge, so users can say goodbye to cord clutter. WATERPIK ION is 30% smaller than traditional WATERPIK plug-in models, making it an ideal solution for small bathrooms with limited counterspace and outlets.

“With a rich history in innovation and design, our goal is to constantly build upon our product portfolio and evolve our technology to meet and exceed consumer needs,” sys Bart Prins, Waterpik General Manager. “We have heard from consumers, particularly those living in urban areas with limited counter space or outlet access, about the need for a cordless device that delivers the same premium experience as WATERPIK countertop water flossers. In response, we created WATERPIK ION, the perfect combination of compact, cordless design and maximum power.”

The WATERPIK ION water flosser removes up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas and is up to 50% more effective for improving gum health vs string floss. WATERPIK ION features 10 pressure settings from gentle to maximum power and comes with a full range of flossing tips so users can select the pressure and tip that is best for their teeth and gums. Offering a small, ergonomically designed handle with water on/off switch and a swivel base for use at any angle, WATERPIK ION has a sleek magnetic cradle to hold the water flosser handle when not in use, and is complete with global voltage compatibility and a magnetic USB charger plus adaptor.

Accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA), the WATERPIK ION water flosser is known for performance, quality, and effectiveness. WATERPIK has more clinical research than any other brand on the market and remains the number one brand recommended by dental professionals. As the newest innovation, WATERPIK ION joins the portfolio to provide a superior oral care option for those with limited space and outlets. It’s a perfect at-home solution between dental visits.

The new WATERPIK ION cordless water flosser is available in black and white finishes for $89.99 to $99.99 online at most major retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, Target and Walmart. For more information, visit waterpik.com/ion.

Strange Joins MouthWatch Team

MouthWatch, LLC a leader in innovative teledentistry solutions, digital case presentation tools and intraoral imaging devices, recently named Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH as its newest Client Success Manager.

In her new role, Strange will have a variety of responsibilities, including creating training and educational materials for MouthWatch clients and sharing her clinical knowledge with the product development and marketing teams.

According to MouthWatch CEO and Founder Brant Herman, “Michelle is well regarded as a clinician, educator and communicator. Her multi-faceted capabilities will be extremely valuable to our rapidly growing client success team.”

A practicing hygienist, Strange brings over 20 years of experience in numerous roles within dentistry. She is a graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Health Science. Strange also earned a Master’s in Dental Hygiene Education from the University of Bridgeport.

She focuses her career on expanding the knowledge of her colleagues in all aspects of health care. Her passion for dentistry and its connection to overall health extends to her many community and global volunteer efforts.

Currently, Strange is the co-founder and co-host of “A Tale of Two Hygienists” the longest-running podcast for dental hygienists. She is also the co-founder of “Level Up Infection Prevention” and “TriviaDent”.

“Honestly, I feel so excited to be working with such a great company, being a part of its winning team, and helping to support a teledentistry platform that is changing the way we practice dentistry,” said Strange. “I love having the ability to help my colleagues see how TeleDent offers new ways to care for more people in their communities.”

Kulzer Launches Ivory ReLeaf Minis

Kulzer announced the launch of Ivory ReLeaf Minis, which can be used with its top-selling and award-winning Ivory ReLeaf hands-free suction system when treating pediatric patients and adult patients with small arches. The system delivers safety and comfort to patients while enhancing efficiency and ergonomics for dental practices.

Ivory ReLeaf is an innovative, hands-free HVE suction solution that assists with evacuation, retraction and maintaining a dry field during various hygiene and dental procedures, including restorative procedures, endodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, ultrasonic scaling, sealants, root planning and whitening. The Ivory ReLeaf system consists of an HVE hose with a quick disconnect adaptor on one end for convenient connection to the practice’s existing dental vacuum system, and a u-shaped connector on the other end into which a single-use “Leaf” is inserted. The Leaf – which is BPA-free and latex-free and designed to be soft for patient comfort – is placed into the oral cavity and positioned between the teeth and cheek. The Leaf maintains highly effective suction and a dry field while allowing the practitioner to comfortably work in all four quadrants with a full view of the oral cavity. Importantly, the Leaf’s 280 degrees of suction means that its location never has to be changed by the practitioner.

The ReLeaf Mini Leaf, which is approximately 25% smaller than the conventional Leaf but fits the ReLeaf system’s same u-shaped connector, is designed to work comfortably with pediatric patients, elderly patients, patients with TMJ, special needs patients, and other patients with small arches. ReLeaf Mini refills come in 100-count packages featuring an assortment of green, magenta and light blue colors.

The hands-free design and exceptional ergonomics of the Ivory ReLeaf system can save practices up to 15 minutes of time per patient. Moreover, patients appreciate not only its superior comfort, but the fact that it minimizes backflow risk and aerosol risk while making it much easier to communicate.

“The Ivory ReLeaf system has enjoyed great popularity since its 2018 introduction due to the enhanced safety and comfort it offers patients, and the exceptional efficiency and ergonomics it offers clinicians,” said Obioma Clifford, Kulzer’s Senior Product Manager for the Ivory ReLeaf line. “With our ReLeaf Minis launch, we are pleased to now be able to extend these important benefits to patients of all ages with small arches, and to the practitioners who treat them.”

Study Finds Low Rate of COVID-19 Among Dental Hygienists

Despite dental hygienists having been designated as high risk for COVID-19 by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a new study indicates only 3.1% have had COVID-19 based on data collected in October 2020. This is in alignment with the cumulative infection prevalence rate among dentists and far below that of other health professionals in the US, although slightly higher than that of the general population.

The research, published by The Journal of Dental Hygiene, is the first large-scale collection and publication of US dental hygienists’ infection rates and infection control practices related to COVID-19. In partnership, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and the American Dental Association (ADA) have released initial findings from their ongoing, joint research designed to estimate the prevalence of COVID-19 among US dental hygienists, as well as examine infection prevention and control procedures and any associated trends, including employment data.

“We were pleased to collaborate with the ADA on this research that takes a closer look at the impact of the pandemic on the dental team,” says ADHA CEO Ann Battrell, MSDH. “The low infection rate shows us we can provide oral health care in a safe manner, which is critically important since the safety of dental hygienists and the patients they serve is of the utmost importance to ADHA and the dental hygiene profession.”

The data reflect results from the first month of a longitudinal study on the impact of COVID-19 on dental hygienists in the US. As of October 8, 2020, a total of 4,776 dental hygienists from all 50 states and Puerto Rico had participated in the survey. Of the survey participants, 149 respondents (3.1%) had ever been diagnosed with COVID-19, either through testing or by a medical professional, and they were not clustered in any particular geographic region.

“The dental team has been following strict infection control guidance since long before COVID-19,” says Marcelo Araujo, DDS, MS, PhD, a senior author of the report, chief executive officer of the ADA Science and Research Institute, and ADA chief science officer. “This study is another proof point that dental care is safe for patients and dental professionals.”

According to the study, more than 99% of respondents reported their primary dental practice had enhanced infection prevention or control efforts in response to the pandemic. The majority of respondents wore eye protection, masks, protective coverings and gloves during dental procedures.

A second study in the joint research examined employment rates of dental hygienists, finding that 8% of dental hygienists had left the workforce since the onset of the pandemic. Of this group, nearly 60% left the workforce voluntarily, citing reasons such as overall concerns around the pandemic, safety concerns, and childcare issues.

“We know the pandemic has impacted healthcare workers in so many ways,” says JoAnn R. Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, AFAAOM, a lead author of the research and the chair of ADHA’s Task Force on Return to Work. “While one-quarter of the 8% of dental hygienists who left the workforce were laid off due to early dental office closures, others were faced with tough decisions around whether or not they could continue to work in a setting that requires direct patient care. It’s a very personal decision. The good news is, the infection rate data shows that dental hygiene care can be delivered safely. And, with vaccine availability we may see more opportunities for dental hygienists to return to practice.”

According to the authors of the report, COVID-19 has led to a reduction in the dental hygienist workforce that is likely to persist until the pandemic passes.

“The pandemic is bringing unprecedented disruption to the US health care sector, including in the dental workforce,” said Marko Vujicic, PhD, chief economist and vice president of the ADA’s Health Policy Institute. “We are continuing to examine employment patterns and the impact on the dental team, including how continued vaccine distribution will contribute to these patterns. Our research suggests once the pandemic is over, we could see employment patterns largely return to pre-pandemic levels.”

The ADHA and the ADA will continue to work together to track infection rate data and the impact of COVID-19 on dental professionals.

MouthWatch Adds Jamie Collins to Team

MouthWatch, LLC recently appointed Jamie Collins, RDH-EA,BS to the newly created dual position of Senior Client Success Manager and Professional Education Manager.

According to MouthWatch CEO and Founder Brant Herman, “We’re extremely fortunate to have someone join our growing management team who can serve in two very strategic roles simultaneously. Jamie is uniquely qualified to excel in this newly created position.”

In her role as Client Success Manager, Collins will be responsible for the onboarding and success of VIP clients such as key opinion leaders and universities who implement the TeleDent ™ all-in-one teledentistry platform.

As the professional education manager, Collins will lead the projects associated with the MouthWatch CE course curriculum, webinars, and additional education programs that will continue to grow and evolve.

Collins brings to the job more than 20 years of dental industry experience. She is well-regarded as an author and lecturer and is also a practicing dental hygienist and has served as a dental assisting and dental hygiene instructor. Additionally, she has contributed to multiple textbooks and curriculums for school systems across the country. She is an active member of the American Dental Hygienists Association and is a member of the DentalCodeology Consortium Committee for dental coding.

“It is exciting to join such an innovative team, and work for a leader in the teledentistry arena,” Collins says. “MouthWatch is renowned for its excellent customer service and leading the way for dental professionals to excel in practice. I couldn’t be more honored to join the MouthWatch family.”

Tepe Original Interdental Brushes Now Sustainable

TePe® announced that its Original Interdental Brushes are now sustainable. Tepe has reduced the products’ carbon footprint by 80%—without compromising on product quality, efficiency, or design. TePe now offers consumers and dental professionals the opportunity to make a conscious choice by introducing a more sustainable interdental brush.

TePe has taken on the challenge of achieving carbon neutrality in products and packaging in 2022.

New Aerosol Control Device Provides Affordable Option for COVID-19 Prevention

The AiroPur Dental Aerosol Suction Cup is a disposable suction device for controlling aerosols, especially during procedures such as ultrasonic scaling or coronal polishing. The product provides peace of mind for dentists and hygienists at an extremely friendly price-point. Dental practices can also promote its use to patients as an innovative measure taken against the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses.

Inserts Right into the HVE Hose

The AiroPur inserts right into the end of your High-Volume Evacuation (HVE) hose. The patient holds the top of the AiroPur even with their lower lip while the HVE is operational, effectively pulling aerosols from the mouth and the air surrounding the patient’s face. The simple device eliminates the need for bulky or expensive new equipment, saving dollars as well as precious space in the operatory.

After brushing with Dr.Collins BioMin Restore Plus, the active ingredient adheres to the tooth surface, where these microscopic particles slowly dissolve over an 8- to 12-hour period, constantly releasing calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions. These combine to deposit fluorapatite, similar to natural tooth enamel but more acid resistant, forming a protective coating on the tooth surfaces. It is also precipitated inside any exposed dentine tubules, plugging them and preventing the fluid flow which causes dentine hypersensitivity.

Disposable + Autoclavable

At less than $1 apiece, AiroPur is priced to be inexpensive enough to be disposable. However, its construction also makes the AiroPur autoclavable for re-use.

Pricing and Availability

The AiroPur suction device comes in 40-count packages at a retail price of $39.00. to purchase, visit https://www.hodentalcompany.com/product/airopur-dental-aerosol-suction-cup.

The Fight Against COVID-19

Ho Dental Founder and Inventor Dr. Phillip Ho, DMD, created the AiroPur as the latest in his personal effort to fight against the spread of COVID-19. Dr. Ho also serves as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for ACatechol, a company recently awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for the development of a germicidal coating technology that protects against the spread of Coronaviruses by touch. His brother, Dr. David Ho, Professor of Medicine at Columbia University, is at the forefront of COVID-19 vaccine development.

About Ho Dental Company

Ho Dental Company is a premier dental supply company located in Las Vegas, NV. Founder Dr. Phillip Ho, DMD, has more than 30 years of product development experience. He also operates a full-time dental practice in Santa Barbara, CA. His goal is to help dentists like himself save time and money while improving results and client satisfaction. Visit: https://www.hodentalcompany.com

Whip mix Introduces HyGenie for Removable Appliances

Whip Mix unveiled HyGenie, the unique way to clean, store, and protect all types of removable dental appliances including retainers, aligners, splints, nightguards, sports mouthguards, sleep appliances, and dentures.

Dr. Mark’s HyGenie was developed by a group in Australia, who were looking for cleaner, faster, safer cleaning options, compared to toothpaste and brush, and one that did not require soaking in dirty cleansing solutions.

The device features a built-in series of “clustered” brushes that rotate in opposite directions, washing all surfaces of an appliance simultaneously. In addition, the special cleansing gel used with the device cleans and dissolves stains and calculus buildup. Afterward, the device can also store most dental appliances, making it a ‘one-stop shop’ for users.

“For 30 years in practice, I have seen far too many people struggle to properly clean and protect their removable dental appliances,” says developer Mark Wotherspoon, BDSc. “Did you know that wearing an unhygienic dental appliance can lead to unsightly, painful and costly oral disease? Oral disease which can then lead to even more serious diseases of the heart, lungs and throat? Our mission is to change all that.”

The unique HyGenie device is currently being offered to dental offices by Whip Mix. Special volume pricing is available for those who would like to sell the HyGenie in the practice, or give to every patient receiving a new dental appliance. If the dentist prefers, a recommendation can be made for the patient to purchase directly from shop.whipmix.com.

Air Techniques Announces New Product Launches and Whitepaper Study

Air Techniques, Inc has introduced the only Extra and Intraoral Vacuum Solution, Mojave® Mobile. Along with new High Volume Evacuators, HVE Air Protect XL™ and HVE Air Protect XL Plus™. In coordination with these exciting new products, Air Techniques has teamed up with Dürr Dental and Dr. Martin Koch to scientifically provide conclusive results of the product's effectiveness and the importance of aerosol and spray mist containment.

Mojave Mobile provides the best flow performance in one compact package. The powerful dry vacuum and air/water/amalgam separation are combined onto one robust main drive shaft. With a total suction performance of >12 SCFM, the Mojave Mobile diminishes and reduces aerosol clouds, thereby reducing the spread of infection. Its pump is strong enough to operate the intraoral HVE and extraoral aerosol funnel at the same time. The Mojave Mobile is a super-compact, transportable suction unit with an easy to clean fluid container.

Of the company’s recent Mojave Mobile product launch, Product Manager, Gregory Kass said, “We saw a void in the vacuum market for a product offering mobile spray mist suction with an air-flow rate exceeding 10 SCFM.”

The new HVE Air Protect XL, and HVE Air Protect XL Plus, are effective solutions for aerosol mitigation. HVE Air Protect XL captures more aerosols than conventional HVE's with its large 16 mm opening, offering more protection for staff and patients. The HVE Air Protect XL Plus has an ergonomic design with a unique rotating protective shield that adapts effortlessly to any treatment situation. Each HVE has protective secondary air inlets that provide the best possible protection against the suction system's backflow.

The Air Techniques and Dürr Dental whitepaper, “Aerosol reduction by means of an intraoral spray mist suction – first findings from an experimental pilot study" by Dr. Martin Koch available to read and download on their website. The study covers; the Methodology, Characterization of particle emission, Influence of the suction system on particle reduction, Influence of the suction system on suction power (flow rate), Influence of the flow rate on particle reduction, Influence of the suction position on particle reduction, and final Discussion. For more information on Air Techniques, visit airtechniques.com.

New Aerosol Control Device Provides Affordable Option for COVID-19 Prevention

The AiroPur Dental Aerosol Suction Cup is a disposable suction device for controlling aerosols, especially during procedures such as ultrasonic scaling or coronal polishing. The product provides peace of mind for dentists and hygienists at an extremely friendly price-point. Dental practices can also promote its use to patients as an innovative measure taken against the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne illnesses.

Inserts Right into the HVE Hose

The AiroPur inserts right into the end of your High-Volume Evacuation (HVE) hose. The patient holds the top of the AiroPur even with their lower lip while the HVE is operational, effectively pulling aerosols from the mouth and the air surrounding the patient’s face. The simple device eliminates the need for bulky or expensive new equipment, saving dollars as well as precious space in the operatory.

After brushing with Dr.Collins BioMin Restore Plus, the active ingredient adheres to the tooth surface, where these microscopic particles slowly dissolve over an 8- to 12-hour period, constantly releasing calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions. These combine to deposit fluorapatite, similar to natural tooth enamel but more acid resistant, forming a protective coating on the tooth surfaces. It is also precipitated inside any exposed dentine tubules, plugging them and preventing the fluid flow which causes dentine hypersensitivity.

Disposable + Autoclavable

At less than $1 apiece, AiroPur is priced to be inexpensive enough to be disposable. However, its construction also makes the AiroPur autoclavable for re-use.

Pricing and Availability

The AiroPur suction device comes in 40-count packages at a retail price of $39.00. to purchase, visit https://www.hodentalcompany.com/product/airopur-dental-aerosol-suction-cup.

The Fight Against COVID-19

Ho Dental Founder and Inventor Dr. Phillip Ho, DMD, created the AiroPur as the latest in his personal effort to fight against the spread of COVID-19. Dr. Ho also serves as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for ACatechol, a company recently awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for the development of a germicidal coating technology that protects against the spread of Coronaviruses by touch. His brother, Dr. David Ho, Professor of Medicine at Columbia University, is at the forefront of COVID-19 vaccine development.

About Ho Dental Company

Ho Dental Company is a premier dental supply company located in Las Vegas, NV. Founder Dr. Phillip Ho, DMD, has more than 30 years of product development experience. He also operates a full-time dental practice in Santa Barbara, CA. His goal is to help dentists like himself save time and money while improving results and client satisfaction. Visit: https://www.hodentalcompany.com

Dr.Collins’ BioMin Restore Plus ToothPaste Earns FDA 510K

Dr.Collins announced that its BioMin Restore Plus Toothpaste has received FDA 510K approval for relief of sensitivity. It becomes the only currently available fluoride-containing bioactive glass toothpaste to be approved by the FDA for sale in the United States.* The toothpaste uniquely controls the release of calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions for many hours after brushing to develop acid-resistant fluorapatite on the tooth surface and inside exposed dentine tubules.

Available only on prescription from registered dental clinicians, Dr.Collins BioMin Restore Plus is based on BioMin® F, a patented bioactive glass complex developed in the laboratories of Queen Mary University of London, UK, by Professor Robert Hill and his team of material scientists. This award-winning formulation was introduced in Europe in late 2016, and is now available in many regions around the world. Dr.Collins Inc, California, the US license holder, anticipates the product will be available in the US in the spring of 2021.

After brushing with Dr.Collins BioMin Restore Plus, the active ingredient adheres to the tooth surface, where these microscopic particles slowly dissolve over an 8- to 12-hour period, constantly releasing calcium, phosphate, and fluoride ions. These combine to deposit fluorapatite, similar to natural tooth enamel but more acid resistant, forming a protective coating on the tooth surfaces. It is also precipitated inside any exposed dentine tubules, plugging them and preventing the fluid flow which causes dentine hypersensitivity.

This controlled release mechanism, continuing to deposit mineral on the tooth surface over several hours, helps Dr.Collins BioMin Restore Plus to be more effective at relieving sensitivity than conventional toothpastes, which are rinsed away in around an hour. Studies at Queen Mary University have shown that new mineral is created in less than an hour after brushing and the process can continue for up to 12 hours.

BioMin’s Clinical Consultant, David Gillam, BA, BDS, MSc, DDS, FRSPH, MICR says: “There are many causes of dentine hypersensitivity which means that previously no single toothpaste worked for everyone. One of the advantages of BioMin is that it provides a constant supply of low levels of fluoride, calcium, and phosphate in the biofilm/saliva/dental interface, which allows fluorapatite to be deposited gradually.” Studies around the world also confirm that the fluorapatite developed from BioMin F penetrates deeply inside exposed dentine tubules.

In a recent poll undertaken by BioMin, dental clinicians reported that dentine hypersensitivity affects well over 40% of the population and most prevalently between the ages of 20-50. It can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort, affecting quality of life. Response to hot and cold are the most common symptoms, and nearly half the dental clinicians taking part in the poll felt unsatisfied with their treatment of such cases.

Californian dental hygienist and dental health educator Theresa McCarter, BSDH, RDH, has been recommending BioMin toothpastes for some time and reports that it has changed the lives of many most severely affected patients. She says: “I am delighted to see that the fluoride version of BioMin toothpaste is finally becoming available for US clinicians to prescribe for their patients. I feel it is an excellent everyday toothpaste which will benefit 80% to 90% of my patients. I am sure this product will become a real game changer.”

Colin Suzman, BDS, DDS, a California dentist and founder of Dr.Collins, Inc, says: “ We are delighted that the FDA has given us the approval to provide BioMin Restore Plus toothpaste to the American public via the dental profession. It is a real achievement for a start-up organization to achieve this result. We believe this ground-breaking technology will bring considerable benefit to many sufferers of dentine hypersensitivity. We are now proceeding to full production and hope to have the product available by end of Q1 2021.”

Dr.Collins BioMin Restore Plus toothpaste has a fresh mint taste and leaves the mouth feeling clean and healthy. For those who prefer a fluoride-free alternative, Dr Collins BioMin Restore toothpaste is also available, based on a calcium/phosphate bioglass.

Since its launch in 2008, the Dr.Collins® brand has been at the leading edge of oral care technology. Its innovative products—toothpastes, Perio Toothbrush® and Perio CleanPic®—are distributed through a variety of channels, including retail stores, online outlets, and professional dental offices. Dr.Collins BioMin Restore and Restore Plus toothpastes are directly available at https://biomintoothpaste.com.

*Novamin, a non-fluoride bioglass toothpaste was available in US until its acquisition by GSK in 2009. https://ceramics.org/ceramic-tech-today/biomaterials/gsk-drops-ball-with-puzzling-us-release-of-sensodyne-repair-protect-sans-45s5-glass

American Mobile & Teledentistry Alliance Names President

The American Mobile & Teledentistry Alliance announced that Dr. Kwane Watson has been selected as its first-ever President.

“Dr. Watson brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, talent, and enthusiasm to our mission,” the Board of Directors says in a statement. “We are thrilled to have someone with Dr. Watson’s leadership experience and knowledge of mobile and teledentistry representing our organization.”

Dr. Kwane Watson is the founder and CEO of Kare Mobile, a consulting company and mobile dental practice which provides comprehensive concierge services. He is a graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. Serving 20 years in various leadership roles within the dental industry, he serves as an industry expert and thought leader.

“As President, my primary focus is three-fold,” says Dr. Watson. “I strive to increase industry awareness of the alliance, to advance legislative policy on mobile and portable dentistry, and to create an environment within the organization of inclusion, where all members can share ideas and collaborate on improving oral health access and best practices.”

The American Mobile & Teledentistry Alliance launched in January 2020 as a unique international association of mobile dental health professionals and organizations who are dedicated to promoting and providing oral health and well-being for patients in a mobile or virtual healthcare setting. The alliance provides educational resources and information exchange for members, which include dentists, dental hygienists, non-dental healthcare providers, health program administrators, residents, students, as well as organizations. The organization advocates for national legislation and develops initiatives to advance the mobile and teledentistry niche. For more information on becoming a member or a corporate partner, visit americanmobiledentistryalliance.org.

Fluoride-Containing Prophy Paste in Three Cleaning Grits

VOCO introduces CleanJoy, a fluoride-containing, splatter-free, less abrasive prophy paste in three cleaning grits and three delicious flavors. Containing fluoride (700ppm) and xylitol, paraben-free and available in SingleDose cups, CleanJoy is a safe, hygienic and effective paste for the prevention of caries, the removal of soft and hard surface plaque, the removal of extrinsic stains (e.g., coffee, tea, tobacco, etc.), the polishing of tooth surfaces and restorations as part of professional cleanings, and more.

CleanJoy is available in caramel, mint, and cherry flavors and in three less abrasive grits—fine, medium and course—for use in a wide range of clinical situations. The fine grit features a low enough abrasion grade (RDA) that it is suitable for use with implants. CleanJoy has a stable, homogenous consistency, will not clump or dry out, and does not splatter, even when used with a polisher spinning at up to 3,000 rpms. VOCO is proud to add CleanJoy to its large catalog of high-quality product solutions that continue to service dental professionals and their patients throughout North America.

American Mobile & Teledentistry Alliance Names President

The American Mobile & Teledentistry Alliance announced that Dr. Kwane Watson has been selected as its first-ever President.

“Dr. Watson brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, talent, and enthusiasm to our mission,” the Board of Directors says in a statement. “We are thrilled to have someone with Dr. Watson’s leadership experience and knowledge of mobile and teledentistry representing our organization.”

Dr. Kwane Watson is the founder and CEO of Kare Mobile, a consulting company and mobile dental practice which provides comprehensive concierge services. He is a graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. Serving 20 years in various leadership roles within the dental industry, he serves as an industry expert and thought leader.

“As President, my primary focus is three-fold,” says Dr. Watson. “I strive to increase industry awareness of the alliance, to advance legislative policy on mobile and portable dentistry, and to create an environment within the organization of inclusion, where all members can share ideas and collaborate on improving oral health access and best practices.”

The American Mobile & Teledentistry Alliance launched in January 2020 as a unique international association of mobile dental health professionals and organizations who are dedicated to promoting and providing oral health and well-being for patients in a mobile or virtual healthcare setting. The alliance provides educational resources and information exchange for members, which include dentists, dental hygienists, non-dental healthcare providers, health program administrators, residents, students, as well as organizations. The organization advocates for national legislation and develops initiatives to advance the mobile and teledentistry niche. For more information on becoming a member or a corporate partner, visit americanmobiledentistryalliance.org.

New Calibration Program for Clinical Dental Educators Launches from Penn Dental Medicine and AAL

AAL partners with Penn Dental Medicine to offer an online certification program for clinical dental educators.

ATLANTA (PRWEB) October 31, 2019

The University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine (Penn Dental Medicine) and the Academy for Advancing Leadership (AAL), an education and healthcare consulting firm, are now enrolling faculty and individuals into the Fundamentals of Clinical Education (FCE). The FCE is an online, asynchronous program for new, adjunct, and transitioning faculty members in dental and dental hygiene education. The program is available to both institutions and individuals.

This cobranded initiative is designed to calibrate and orient predoctoral, postgraduate, and dental hygiene clinical educators. The program is comprised of five modules covering crucial topics in clinical education, including: effective communication with patients and students, cultural competency and inclusion, student motivation, best practices for effective feedback, working with challenging students, and accreditation.

According to the American Dental Education Association, more than half of all dental school faculty in 2016-2017 were part-time, and 55 percent of new faculty came from private practice. Dr. Karl Haden, AAL President, describes the program as "a bridge between the private practice of dentistry and those who are moving into academic positions." He adds, "The FCE fills an unmet need to help those transitioning to, or interested in, academic careers understand the roles and responsibilities of the oral health educator." The program will equip clinical faculty members with the fundamental knowledge and skills they need to be effective clinical educators and valuable team members at their institutions. Offered through Penn Dental Medicine's online learning platform, the program provides participants the flexibility of an at-your-pace online learning experience taught by leading experts from Penn Dental Medicine and AAL.

Of the online program, Dr. Mark S. Wolff, Morton Amsterdam Dean of Penn Dental Medicine, says, "There are so many different aspects to building a strong clinical faculty, and we are pleased to help develop this as another resource in that process. While each dental school faculty is unique, there are universal qualities to effective teaching and interaction with students and those lessons can be an invaluable tool for those entering the field."

For enrollment information or for a demonstration, please visit AALgroup.org/FCE or contact AAL Vice President Dr. Tobias Rodriguez at trodriguez@aalgroup.org.

About the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine:
The mission of Penn Dental Medicine is to educate pre-doctoral and graduate dental students in the highest quality clinical and research environment. Established in 1878, Penn Dental Medicine is a private, Ivy League institution with a history deeply rooted in forging precedents in dental education, research, and patient care. Since its founding, dentistry has been taught in a scientific environment as a specialty of medicine and under the multidisciplinary umbrella of the University of Pennsylvania. Learn more at http://www.dental.upenn.edu/.

About AAL:
AAL is a management consulting firm headquartered in Atlanta. AAL works with organizational leaders to achieve their goals through strategy and professional development. The firm has helped over 150 esteemed institutions and 5,000+ leaders propel education and healthcare forward. Learn more at http://www.AALgroup.org.

Use FDA MedWatch to report poor clinical outcomes from DIY plastic teeth aligners

By Kelly Ganski

The ADA reminds dentists of the Food and Drug Administration's MedWatch voluntary reporting form to report poor clinical outcomes associated with the use of medical devices, including direct-to-consumer plastic teeth aligners offered by several companies.

This resource provides important data to the FDA concerning the public health and safety of medical devices under the agency's jurisdiction.

The period for submitting public comment to the citizen petition the ADA filed with the FDA closed Oct. 22. In the petition, the ADA argued that SmileDirectClub is placing the public at risk by knowingly evading the FDA's "by prescription only" restriction for plastic aligners, which are an FDA Class II medical device. But dentists and consumers can still report bad clinical outcomes using the FDA's MedWatch voluntary reporting form anytime.

"Although the comment period for the FDA citizen petition has ended, FDA MedWatch provides an ongoing platform for dentists to speak up when they encounter the negative outcomes connected to mail-order aligners and other devices," ADA President Chad P. Gehani said. "Patients can also report any adverse experiences on MedWatch. Collectively, we can all play a part in advocating for safety and parity in dental treatment."

Dr. Gehani also stated, "Innovation in dentistry is always welcome, but innovation should never shirk the standard of care. When patient health and safety are at risk, the ADA has a responsibility to advocate on behalf of patients. That's why we shared our concerns about mail-order aligners with the regulatory agencies charged with protecting the public."

In lieu of having dentists review patient dental records or perform any sort of patient exam (whether using teledentistry or otherwise) before prescribing orthodontic treatment, SmileDirectClub instead requires customers to self-report their dental condition. As the ADA explains in its citizen petition, customer self-reporting does not meet the applicable standard of care because it does not satisfy a dentist's requisite professional due diligence.

For dentists who ultimately see patients who have had a bad clinical outcome from trying direct-to-consumer dentistry, it's important to view their previous charts to provide the most complete care. As in most other situations involving patients who were previously treated by another provider, dentists who have treated patients with adverse outcomes from plastic teeth aligners should ask their patients to request their records from the direct-to-consumer company.

"The ADA would like to remind dentists who treat patients subsequent to direct-to-consumer aligners, that obtaining the patient's treatment records is important for continuity of care and inclusion in the general dental treatment record," said ADA President-elect Daniel Klemmedson. "Patients have a legal right to obtain all clinical records from treating dentists or direct-to-consumer companies."

In addition to its citizen petition, on June 27, the ADA sent a complaint letter to the Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection, raising concerns about what the ADA believes are SmileDirectClub's deceptive advertising and marketing practices. The FTC also offers consumers an online form to report complaints about unfair and deceptive business practices on its website.

Dentists can visit https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm and click on "Health Professional" to start their report. They will have to fill out a questionnaire on the patient's basic information - age, weight, race, etc. - then provide information about the problem, including a description, what the outcome was, any lab results and whether there's a product available to evaluate. Dentists will also be asked a series of questions about the product and its manufacturer. Not all questions are required to be answered.

Dentists have to include their name but their address is optional and can check a box if they do not want their identity disclosed to the manufacturer in question.

At NCD's recommendation, all U.S. dental schools will train students to manage treatment of people with intellectual, developmental disabilities

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As recommended by the National Council on Disability (NCD), all U.S. dental schools must now revamp their curricula and training programs to be inclusive of patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD).

The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) recently passed votes requiring dental schools to now train their students in managing treatment of patients with ID/DD. Previously, patients with ID/DD were largely unable to obtain dental care treatment because dental students were simply not required to learn to manage their treatment.

"Every dental patient in America deserves the same care, whether or not they have a disability," said NCD Chairman Neil Romano. "NCD applauds this decision that we view as necessary for people with ID/DD to obtain critical access to dental treatment, which is critical to the total health of all people."

CODA held and passed four related votes regarding the predoctoral dental, orthodontics, dental hygiene, and dental assistant programs:

For predoctoral programs and orthodontics programs, dental students must be trained to assess and manage the treatment of patients with "special needs [sic]."

For dental hygiene programs, students must be competent in providing care to "special needs [sic]" patient populations.

For dental assistant programs, students must be familiarized with patients with "special needs [sic]" including patients whose medical, physical, psychological, or social conditions make it necessary to modify normal dental routines.

CODA generally defines people with "special needs (sic)" as people with developmental disabilities, cognitive impairment, complex medical problems, significant physical limitations, and the vulnerable elderly.

Changes for the predoctoral dental, dental hygiene, and dental assistant programs are required to take effect by July 1, 2020, with changes to the orthodontics programs required by Jan. 1.

NCD first made recommendations to CODA following its 2017 issue brief "Neglected for Too Long: Dental Care for Patients with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities," in which NCD's findings included:

• Adults with developmental disabilities are at risk for multiple health problems including poor oral health.

• People with I/DD regularly face an uphill battle in finding clinicians properly trained to treat them because most dentists lack the proper training and exposure with respect to the health and psychosocial needs of this population.

• According to one study, more than 50 percent of dental and medical school deans have stated that their graduates are not competent to treat patients with I/DD; as a result, people with I/DD are more likely to have poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, and untreated dental caries than are members of the general population.

• People with I/DD have been more likely to not have had their teeth cleaned in the past five years, or never to have had their teeth cleaned, than those who are not disabled.

• Due to the lack of proper skills among dentists, dental care is often more difficult to find than any other type of service for people with I/DD.

Last year, NCD successfully worked with the American Dental Association to revise its Code of Professional Conduct to state that "dentists shall not refuse to accept patients into their practice or deny dental service to patients because of the patient's…disability." This code revision was adopted by many states as state law of professional conduct.

First established as an advisory council within the Department of Education in 1978, NCD became an independent federal agency in 1984. In 1986, NCD recommended enactment of an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and drafted the first version of the bill which was introduced in the House and Senate in 1988. Since enactment of the ADA in 1990, NCD has continued to play a leading role in crafting disability policy, and advising the President, Congress and other federal agencies on disability policies, programs, and practices.

Does poor oral health impact brain function?

By Lauren Sharkey

Perceived stress may detrimentally impact oral health which, in turn, may lead to cognitive decline among specific elderly communities, according to two new studies.

Oral health can be a surprisingly good indicator of a person's well-being. Not only can oral diseases reduce a person's quality of life, but they can also increase the risk of other serious conditions.

Researchers have linked gum disease and tooth loss to the occurrence of stroke. An article published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology in 2010 concluded that gum disease could raise a person's risk of heart disease by around 20%. It is, however, necessary to carry out more research in these areas.

Teams at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, have now focused on a different link - the one between oral health and cognitive decline.

A recently published review of 23 studies found evidence of a relationship between oral health and cognitive aspects, such as memory and executive function.

Now, a team from Rutgers University carried out two separate studies into cognitive decline and perceived stress. Both papers appear in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

The Chinese American focus

The studies focused on Chinese American adults with a minimum age of 60. "Racial and ethnic minorities are particularly vulnerable to the negative consequences of poor oral health," explains XinQi Dong, director of Rutgers University's Institute for Health, Health Care Policy, and Aging Research.

He continues, "Minorities have less access to preventive dental care that is further exacerbated by language barriers and low socioeconomic status. Older Chinese Americans are at particular risk for experiencing oral health symptoms due to lack of dental insurance or not visiting a dental clinic regularly."

Participants for both studies came from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago (PINE). The first study quizzed people on their oral health and gave them five cognitive tests to complete.

The second study asked participants if they had ever experienced dry mouth issues. Researchers then asked them to measure their perceived stress, social support, and social strain levels using pre-defined scales.

Social support referred to how often they felt able to open up to or rely on their family members or friends. Researchers defined social strain as how often participants experienced excessive demands or criticism from friends or relatives.

A cognitive link

Out of the more than 2,700 Chinese Americans interviewed, almost half reported tooth-related symptoms. Just over a quarter said they had experienced dry mouth.

There was no significant relationship between gum and cognitive problems. However, researchers believe participants may have been less likely to report gum symptoms due to finding them less problematic.

The researchers did find a link between cognitive decline - specifically global cognition and episodic memory decline - and tooth symptoms. Episodic memory issues themselves have a link to the onset of dementia.

The researchers found a similar association in the second study. Those who reported more perceived stress were more likely to report dry mouth. Spousal social support or strain did not reduce this relationship, but support from friends appeared to protect against dry mouth in some way.

"However, the potential overload of such support could be detrimental to oral health outcomes among older Chinese Americans," notes study author Weiyu Mao, assistant professor at the University of Nevada's School of Social Work.

Oral health is key

Any conclusion formed from self-reported data has its limitations. However, the team believes their findings point to a need for better awareness of immigrant health and psychosocial influences on said health.

Dong says they "demonstrate the importance of examining immigrant oral health outcomes later in life to understand the specific type of outcomes of different cultural groups."

"The studies further serve as a call to action for policymakers to develop programs aimed at improving oral health preventive and dental care services in this high risk population."
— XinQi Dong

Ensuring good oral health of older Chinese Americans should be a primary goal, according to the team.

Mao notes, "intervention strategies need to expand beyond the common risk factors, such as health conditions and health behaviors, and account for the psychosocial determinants, including stress and social support." Inclusive efforts such as these could even go some way to reducing cognitive decline.

ADA Statement on Study in JAMA Pediatrics

August 19, 2019

CHICAGO - The American Dental Association (ADA) remains committed to fluoridation of public water supplies as the single most effective public health measure to help prevent tooth decay. This commitment is shared by many national and international organizations, including the World Health Organization, US Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. 

Public health policy is based on a collective weight of scientific evidence. The ADA is aware of a new study conducted in Canada in which its authors reviewed maternal exposure to fluoride in pregnancy. We welcome this and further scientific study of the issue to see if the findings can be replicated with methods that demonstrate more conclusive evidence.

Throughout more than 70 years of research and practical experience, the overwhelming weight of credible scientific evidence has consistently indicated that fluoridation of community water supplies is safe. The evidence-based research shows the recommended concentrations of fluoride (0.7 mg/L) used in community water fluoridation is beneficial and safe for the public.

Since the introduction of community water fluoridation in 1945, and the addition of fluoride in toothpaste, tooth decay rates in the U.S. have dropped significantly. Today, even with wide-spread availability of fluoride toothpaste, studies show community water fluoridation continues to be effective in reducing tooth decay by more than 25 percent in children and adults.

The ADA remains focused on how and if emerging evidence might impact public health recommendations and policies. We will continue to evaluate the validity of emerging evidence and research to support the advancement of the health of the public. To learn more about the benefits of fluoride, please visit MouthHealthy.org/fluoride.

Off-Setting Oral Health Disparities Among Low-Income Americans

Alliance for a Cavity-Free Future Grants to Improve Oral Health of Young Children

ADHA Supports Upcoming Update to Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health