Articles related to Dentistry

Jaw tightness and pain, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tightness, can be caused by various factors. Stress or anxiety can lead to muscle tension in the jaw, resulting in tightness and discomfort. TMJ disorders, teeth grinding (bruxism), tetanus infection, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and osteoarthritis (OA) are other potential causes. To relieve a tight jaw, patients can try jaw joint stretches, opt for a soft food diet, and use mouthguards to prevent teeth grinding. Treatment options may include shortwave diathermy, hot and cold compresses, medication, or even acupuncture. It’s important for patients to consult a doctor or dentist if symptoms worsen or interfere with daily activities. By addressing the underlying cause and providing appropriate remedies, dental professionals can help patients find relief from jaw tightness and pain.

In this study, of the 118 transgender and gender nonbinary (TGNB) patients, one-third of participants reported misgendering (being addressed in the dental environment using the wrong name and pronouns). Although refusal of oral health care was uncommon in our sample of TGNB participants, more than half believed that their regular source of oral health care was unable to provide gender-appropriate care. Avoidance owing to gender identity was found to be substantially related to self-reported unsatisfactory dental health. Gender insensitivity, awkward interactions, avoidance of care, and a lack of gender-affirming practitioners were all common themes un participants’ oral health care experiences.

Implementing trauma-informed care (TIC) in dental clinics can greatly improve the patient experience and health outcomes. When patients have been exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), it increases their risk of long-term health issues. By acknowledging these experiences, we can engage patients better and avoid re-traumatizing them. ACEs are closely linked to poor dental health, with higher rates of tooth loss and the need for restorations. Surprisingly, TIC is not routinely taught in undergraduate education. TIC involves understanding trauma signs, integrating knowledge into the dental practice, and focusing on safety, trust, support, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural considerations. To implement TIC, create a soothing environment, validate patient concerns, give them control, explain procedures, and obtain consent. Pre-screening for trauma history and training staff to recognize and de-escalate re-traumatization are crucial. Dental professionals can promote a culture of awareness, understanding, and action by prioritizing empathy, understanding patient beliefs, and providing compassionate care. It’s important to assume all patients may have experienced adverse events and apply trauma-informed care as standard practice. By doing so, we improve our patients’ oral health-related quality of life.

Do you understand how to protect your patients and team from biofilm that can build in dental unit waterlines (DUWLs)? Take this quiz to see how well you understand this critical safety issue.

According to census data, there are 49.2 million older persons in the United States, with 21 million (42.6%) earning less than 200% of the federal poverty threshold. With the majority of older persons having their natural dentition, there will be an increased demand for oral health (OH) treatments among this demographic. Although the causative links between oral and systemic diseases are still developing and not entirely established, there is undeniably a bidirectional relationship between OH, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes in older persons.

Following successful completion of this $39 three CE-credit course, the dental professional should be able to: