Braces are cool again
Braces are making a comeback, and dentists may be pleased to see younger patients embracing them rather than resisting. In this issue we also take a look at why patients are seeking alternatives to fluoride toothpaste, explore new research on missed dental visits and why menopause is becoming an important topic in the dentist’s chair.
But first, new research indicates that your teeth might thank you for taking up the Mediterranean diet.
The new toothpaste on the block. As nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste gains popularity among consumers, dentists have to consider how to talk to patients about its potential benefits and risks.
Tongue piercings and dental health. Tongue piercings have an aesthetic appeal for some people, but they can have a negative impact on oral health.
Scope of practice drama. Florida is struggling with a lack of access to dental care. Some advocates push for dental therapists to fill the gap, while the Florida Dental Association opposes expanding their scope of practice.
Braces are back, baby. Today's preteens and teens think metal braces are cool, a major shift from kids who dreaded taunts of "metal mouth" and "brace face."
Red light therapy and brushing. Red light therapy is very in, and it has found its way into oral care. A new electric toothbrush makes use of near-infrared and red light.
Managing growth and the human touch
Taking a dental practice from a small team and a single location to a multi-location brand is a significant undertaking that can change the patient and staff experience. Devan Dalla, DDS, CEO of ORA 4X Full Arch Dental Implant Center, writes about how dentists can establish a trusted brand with a clear vision, systems and people in an article for Forbes.
Why it matters: Growth is a key goal for many practice owners, but it takes careful planning to scale without compromising the environment for patients and the dental care team. (Forbes)
Menopause and oral health
Women increasingly want their providers, including dentists, to talk about menopause. A new survey from Delta Dental focuses on how patients and dentists think about menopause and opportunities to improve oral health outcomes through education. Most dentists (83%) report that they would like more training to help them discuss menopause with patients, and 74% of women over 40 indicate that more education on the connection between oral health and overall health would make them more likely to initiate conversations about menopause with their dentists.
Why it matters: Dentists have an opportunity to provide more holistic care by discussing with their patients how menopause affects oral health. (Delta Dental)
Young adults aren't going to the dentist
One in three young adults did not go to the dentist within the past year, according to new research from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Cost and lack of insurance coverage were two primary reasons that young adults skipped dental visits. The study authors call for the improved integration of dental care and overall healthcare to ensure that people can access the care they need.
Why it matters: Studies like this contribute to the growing body of research that underscores the importance of dental care and the barriers to access. (Futurity)
- Minnesota dental practice plans to go public
- Pac-Dent wants to create interoperable dentistry ecosystem
- ADHA taps PDS Health to improve dental hygienist access to care
- How to prevent neck pain in dentistry
Thanks for reading today's edition! You can reach the newsletter team at newsletter@dentalbite.co. We enjoy hearing from you.
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Dental Bite is curated and written by Carrie Pallardy and edited by Lesley McKenzie.
