When dentists cross the line
What happens when the people tasked with protecting oral health put patients at risk? This edition highlights a California dentist under fire for politicizing care, a Utah dentist continuing to practice despite repeated complaints and the broader policy debates, from Medicaid cuts to fluoride fears, that could shift how care is delivered.
But first, watch a wrestler show off some serious choppers. The famous strongman used his teeth to pull a 700-ton ship.
Politics and patient care. Dr. Harleen Grewal styles herself as a "MAGA Dentist," and she is drawing criticism for posting a video saying she cuts back on laughing gas for liberal patients.
What does vaping mean for oral health? Vaping may be less harmful to oral health than smoking, but its full impact is not yet known. More research is needed to understand how vaping might increase the risk of tooth decay and oral cancer.
Oral microbiome and pancreatic cancer risk. NYU Langone Health led a new study that shows 27 species of bacteria and fungi in the oral microbiome are connected to a 3.5 times higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
Better cybersecurity for dental practices. The California Dental Association (CDA) released a five-step plan for dental practices to bolster their cybersecurity.
Treatment plans without sales pressure. In an article for Dental Economics, Robert Minch, DDS, a fee-for-service dentist, offers insight into presenting treatment plans without making patients feel like they are being pressured.
Utah dentist continues to practice despite patient complaints
ProPublica published a wide-ranging report on the case of Nicholas LaFeber, DMD, a Utah dentist who spent three years on professional probation. He had his license reinstated, despite a recommendation from Utah's dentistry board to revoke it. Since then, at least two more patients have reported harm.
Why it matters: Patient safety is essential in dentistry. Cases like this raise questions about how regulators protect the public. (ProPublica)
Colgate shifts marketing in response to fluoride concerns
Earlier this year, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton claimed that leading toothpaste brands' marketing promotes unhealthy amounts of fluoride for children. Now, Colgate-Palmolive is launching new marketing and packaging for its toothpaste brands. New instructions will call for "pea-sized" amounts of toothpaste, Reuters reports.
Why it matters: Changes from a major brand like Colgate are part of the bigger anti-fluoride movement. (Reuters)
Patients and providers brace for Medicaid cuts
The Trump administration plans to make Medicaid cuts of approximately $1 trillion over the next 10 years. Several states are making their own Medicaid cuts as well. These cuts could prompt dentists and other health care providers to stop accepting Medicaid. With fewer providers accepting Medicaid, patients will face more barriers to care and the potential for worse outcomes.
Why it matters: Medicaid is an important resource for vulnerable patients. Cuts could make it even more difficult for these patients to access medical and dental care. (Truthout)
- 'Make Oklahoma Healthy Again' campaign comes for fluoride
- Does probiotic mouthwash work?
- What's happening at DS World 2025?
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry turns 150
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Dental Bite is curated and written by Carrie Pallardy and edited by Lesley McKenzie.
