Dentists: Think twice before taking that X-ray
Order X-rays in moderation, according to new recommendations from the ADA. In addition to new practice guidelines, dentists have to think about the financial pressures of 2026 and how to continue growing.
The latest TikTok craze? People are contorting their mouths to see what they would look like with a single tooth.
A new app for TMD. The JawSpace app is designed to offer self-management and scientific research for people struggling with temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Growth without more insurance. An episode of 'The Thriving Dentist Show' covers strategies for growth beyond adding more dental insurance plans, like building new skills that increase profitability.
Dental calculus as a biomarker. A new study found that elevated levels of potassium in dental calculus could be an indicator of diabetes.
Under pressure. Dental practices are feeling the financial pressure this year, driven by increasing costs, lower patient demand and macroeconomic uncertainty.
AAPD names new CEO. Jessica Y. Lee, DDS, MPH, PhD, is the new CEO of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).
The promise of interrupting bacteria signaling in the mouth
What would happen if we could disrupt communication among the "bad" oral bacteria? A study finds that the results of that disrupted signaling could reduce plaque buildup while sidestepping the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance. The study, published in npj Biofilms and Microbiomes, found that allowing communication between beneficial bacteria while disrupting the bad bacteria could help foster a healthy microbiome.
Why it matters: This research could pave the way for new therapeutics. (Dentistry IQ)
New x-ray recommendations from the ADA
The American Dental Association released new dental X-ray recommendations designed to minimize providers' and patients' exposure to radiation. Under the new recommendations, dentists should only order X-rays when "clinically necessary." These new recommendations represent a major update to those last released in 2012.
Why it matters: X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for dentists, and these new recommendations could change how dentists use them in their practice. (ADA)
Shorter wait times versus quality of care
Two bills moving through the Virginia General Assembly are creating a debate between dentists and hygienists over long wait times versus quality of care.
As lawmakers look for ways to reduce long waits for routine dental care, they introduced a bill that would allow dental assistants to earn a new certification to perform limited preventive cleaning after completing on-the-job training. The other bill creates a faster licensing pathway for some internationally educated dentists to qualify as dental hygienists.
Why it matters: While some, mostly dentists, argue the changes could allow dental offices to serve more patients, many dental hygienists are saying the bills will lower standards of care by oversimplifying the role. (WHRO)
- How jaw surgery can help people fix their speech
- Breaking down barriers in oral health inequity
- New CEO steps in to lead Henry Schein
- EU regulators find fluoride levels safe
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Dental Bite is curated and written by Carrie Pallardy and edited by Bianca Prieto
