The Dental Hygienist Perspective On Laser Use For Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy, Tammie A. Nyce Mrs.

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of dental hygienists regarding the use of lasers in the non-surgical treatment of periodontal disease.  A descriptive survey was distributed via email to current active and inactive members of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. The sample consisted of practicing dental hygienists who had received training in laser use and lived in states that allowed laser use by dental hygienists.   Those dental hygienists who are not practicing clinically, who are not trained in the use of lasers, and who do not have experience using lasers in the treatment …

Dental Hygienists' Views On Salivary Diagnostics, Julie Justice

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study assessed dental hygienists’ views on salivary diagnostic testing in the United States, including awareness, utilization, perceived barriers, and whether years of experience, clinical setting, or education level influenced these views. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to collect data via an 18-item email survey distributed through the American Dental Hygienists’ Association’s mailing list. Eligible participants were licensed dental hygienists currently practicing in the United States. The survey included demographic items and Likert-scale questions on knowledge, clinical use, perceived value, and limitations of salivary diagnostic testing. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency distributions and Spearman correlations. Despite …

Policy Concerning Student Use Of Magnification Loupes By American Dental Hygiene Schools, Amye M. Burruss

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This descriptive study was to assess whether dental hygiene schools require students to purchase magnification loupes, at what point in the program they implement the use of loupes, and which type of loupes they require students to purchase. A survey link through Microsoft Forms consisting of nineteen multiple-choice questions was emailed to 327 dental hygiene program directors and was open for a total of three weeks. With a response rate of 13% (45 respondents), results indicate that most dental hygiene programs mandate or strongly encourage the use of magnification loupes and allow students to start wearing loupes in the first …

The Incorporation Of Salivary Diagnostic Testing In Dental Hygiene Program Curriculum; A Pilot Study Using A Self-Reported Questionnaire, Carrie B. Palmer-Hawkins

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study evaluated the incorporation of salivary diagnostic testing in dental hygiene program curricula. A recruitment email and survey link were sent to a convenience sample of 296 CODA-accredited program directors in the United States. Using a descriptive research approach, the survey gathered quantitative and qualitative data exploring directors’ perspectives on the role of salivary testing in dental hygiene education. Thirty-seven responses were gathered over three weeks, and 34 participants were included in the study, resulting in a response rate of 13%. Thirty-eight percent (n=13) reported incorporating salivary testing into their dental hygiene program curriculum through didactic or clinical coursework. …

Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea And The Role Dental Hygienists Play In Achieving Optimal Health And Quality Of Life: A Pilot Study, Kari S. Roth

Dental Hygiene ETDs

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the current practice, confidence, barriers, and experience of dental hygienists who screen or identify signs, symptoms, and risk factors of those who struggle with pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. This study was designed to provide a brief perspective to identify gaps or needs for improvement in dental hygiene practice. Members of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association participated in an electronic survey. While 231 participants responded, most reported some familiarity with obstructive sleep apnea in children, but many are unaware of guidelines from other professional organizations for screening protocols. Results depict a lack …

Integration Of Oral Health Assessment In Medicare Visits: A Survey Of Primary Care Physicians In Montana And Their Role In Patients Aged 65+, Cheyenne R. Smith

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The integration of oral health assessments into primary care settings has been strongly advocated to enhance access to care for elderly individuals. Medical and dental professionals recognize the critical connection between oral health and systemic health. Physicians can play a key role in enhancing oral health care by incorporating an oral health assessment into routine general health appointments, such as the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV). Physicians in Montana were invited to participate in an anonymous study to gather their opinions on conducting oral health assessments in primary care settings, identify barriers to providing these assessments, and evaluate their knowledge …

An Evaluation Of Dental Hygiene Integration From The Nursing Point Of View Within The Intensive Care Units., Alyssa M. Ramos

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study analyzes the prospective of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse and the importance of oral hygiene delivery to ventilated patients within the ICU. The results of the study analyze the correlation of oral hygiene care performed by the ICU nurse and the probability of developing ventilator associated pneumonia, which is a prevalent infection in the intensive care units. A descriptive research method was used, sent out via email, using a likert- like ordinal scale. The survey was sent to two urban hospital intensive care units, the population included ICU nurses (n=17) from the same urban city. The ICU …

Hyperglycemia And Oral Health: A Review Of Dental Clinicians’ Perceptions And Practices Of Blood Glucose Monitoring In The Dental Office, Kathleen Wozniak

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study aims to review the current practices and perceptions of dentists regarding the likelihood of dental professionals incorporating blood glucose monitoring into patient care protocol of patients with diabetes mellitus and prediabetes in dental offices. A survey link was shared by DentalOffices, a dental resource center. The survey included a series of questions which aimed to review dentists' current attitudes, practices, and considerations for implementation of in-office blood glucose testing as it relates to the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus. Forty-seven dentists participated in the survey. This study determined blood glucose testing is not a common protocol or …

An Analysis Of Employment Patterns And Career Decisions Among Dental Hygienists: In A Transforming Healthcare Landscape, Shirley Calderon Jamarck

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The purpose of this study was to identify the factors contributing to dental hygienists’ consideration of changing careers, retiring early, or feeling burned out. A 26-question survey was emailed to members of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, with 742 responses meeting inclusion criteria. Participants evaluated aspects of their careers, including job satisfaction, wages and benefits, personal growth, work-related stress, burnout, work-life balance, and retirement plans. Results revealed that one-third of respondents planned to leave the profession, citing burnout, physical strain, and limited career growth as reasons. High correlations were found between job satisfaction and feeling valued, professional accomplishment, and growth …

Assessing Oral Cancer Screenings Provided By Dental Hygienists, Nora N/A Basheer Megerdichian

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Oral cancer remains a significant public health concern, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 50% due to late-stage diagnoses. Dental hygienists play a crucial role in the early screening of oral cancer through routine intraoral and extraoral examinations. This study evaluates the effectiveness of oral cancer screenings conducted by dental hygienists in referring for further evaluation and their overall perception of the importance and frequencies of these examinations. A survey was distributed through the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) to practicing dental hygienists across the United States, gathering data on screening frequency, referral patterns, perceived importance, and challenges faced …

Achieving Periodontal Disease Stabilization: Assessing The Impact Of Laser Therapy In Scaling And Root Planing And Periodontal Maintenance Visits, Cassandra Charlotte Cooper

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Purpose: This study examined the effectiveness of laser utilization in stabilizing periodontal disease over a one-year period. This research focused on the results following scaling and root planing with adjunctive laser-assisted periodontal therapy and laser bacterial reduction at subsequent periodontal maintenance visits. While short-term advantages are documented in the literature, research on sustained effectiveness is limited. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 30 adult patients who received the above treatment was conducted. Periodontal charting was recorded at three visits over one year. Data was collected and analyzed utilizing Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to determine statistical significance of periodontal …

Dental Hygiene Programs’ Use Of Oral Health Literacy Techniques For Special Needs Patients And Caregivers, Socorro D. Tejeda Diaz

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study examined oral health literacy communication techniques in dental hygiene programs across the U.S. for special needs patients and their caregivers. The study surveyed 46 U.S. dental hygiene program directors on communication techniques, degrees offered, and subject areas. Two-sample t-tests compared differences in communication techniques between AAS and BAS and subject areas. Most respondents routinely employed printed materials with 2 or 3 concepts, speak slowly, and simple language. When comparing the variances in communication techniques offered in AAS and BAS, we observed a t-statistic of 2.06 with a corresponding p-value of 0.54. This suggests that the mean communication techniques …

Dental Therapy In Washington State: Exploring Dental Hygienists’ Perceptions And Attitudes Towards An Emerging Workforce Model, Soy Mouy Gearheart

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Purpose: This study examines dental hygienists' perceptions of dental therapy in Washington State. Methods: A cross-sectional survey utilizing a Likert-scale questionnaire was conducted among dental hygienists recruited from Washington State Dental Jobs Facebook groups. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation analysis examined key variables. Results:Of the 46 participants (n=46), 72% reported that they believed dental therapy could improve access to care in underserved areas. Concerns about current educational standards for safe practice were noted. 11% expressed interest in pursuing a dental therapy degree within the next five years, motivated by interest and career opportunities. Notably, 67% of all male respondents indicated …

Dental Hygiene Program Admission Criteria Key Indicators To National Board Success, Kacy Goetz

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The study evaluates the admission criteria of entry-level dental hygiene programs in the United States and their relationship to National Dental Hygiene Board Examination (NDHBE) success rates. An online survey was distributed to 327 programs, gathering data on admission criteria and NDHBE outcomes through a 16-question Microsoft Forms survey. With a response rate of 16% (53 respondents), the survey found that GPA was the most common admission criterion used by 92% of programs. The results indicated a strong negative correlation between high school GPA and NDHBE success. The study also evaluated NDHBE pass rates with board review courses taken. The …

Assessing Dental Hygiene Students’ Perspectives: A Survey Of Curriculum Adequacy For Interdisciplinary Settings In U.S. Dental Hygiene Programs, Brittany Elaine Tripp

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study investigated whether dental hygiene programs implement interdisciplinary care into their curriculum and assessed student preparedness for working in interdisciplinary settings. The study also aimed to identify student preferences for various interdisciplinary care settings. A survey was developed and distributed via email to program directors of accredited dental hygiene programs across the United States. Those programs directors were asked to forward the survey to currently enrolled final-year students. Out of eighty-two responses received, 16 were excluded because those respondents were not final-year dental hygiene students. Sixty-six participants were considered eligible for the survey (n=66). The results indicate that most …

Dental Hygiene Burnout In Clinical Practice From Covid-19; A Pilot Study Using Self-Reported Questionaire, Yvette Valladares

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The purpose of this study was to determine if the Covid-19 pandemic had increased feelings of burnout in registered dental hygienists who were employed in clinical practice before and during 2020. A survey of registered dental hygienists in California was employed. Participants completed a modified Maslach Burnout Inventory, to evaluate emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA). One open-ended question explored specific aspects of Covid-19 contributing to burnout. 162 surveys were completed and 139 met the inclusion criteria. Data analysis revealed that 40.29% reported high Emotional Exhaustion, 43.17% experienced low Depersonalization, and 85.61% reported high Personal Achievement. Lastly, …

Ergonomics And Musculoskeletal Disorders: An Evaluation Of Self-Assessment Using Surveys, Shannon L. Sherman

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Musculoskeletal disorders, MSDs, are a serious issue many dental professionals experience. It is understood that improper ergonomics are a contributing factor to developing MSDs. Several factors can be implemented into a dental hygienist’s everyday routine to help decrease the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. The purpose of this study was to investigate how many practicing dental hygienists experience musculoskeletal pain from daily hygiene practice and how ergonomics contributes to their level of pain. The study also discovered through self-assessment, areas participating dental hygienists would be willing to improve on in their daily ergonomic practice to potentially help decrease or prevent …

Admission Requirements Among Dental Hygiene Programs: Key Indicators To Student Success, Justin R. Nance

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This descriptive study evaluated both cognitive (academic) and non-cognitive (personal) factors considered in the admission process and their correlation with student retention rates in dental hygiene programs. The research examined admission criteria and student retention rates for students who matriculated in 2021 and 2022, aiming to develop more effective admission criteria that predict student success and retention. A survey consisting of 20 multiple-choice questions was distributed to 327 accredited dental hygiene program directors in order to gather data. The survey achieved a 16% response rate. The results of this study provide insights into how to develop more effective admission criteria …

Toothbrushing And Flossing Sequence: The Most Effective Way To Reduce Dental Plaque Biofilm, Kimberly Ann Obiedo

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Dental plaque biofilm remaining on oral structures causes disease processes such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and dental caries. This study's purpose was to determine which sequence of dental biofilm removal is more effective, toothbrushing followed by flossing or flossing followed by toothbrushing. The study was conducted using an experimental approach with a split mouth design. A pre and post plaque index score was determined for each participant using Ramfjord’s tooth assignment and all data was recorded on a plaque control data sheet. Thirty-two adults were eligible to participate in the study. The average results of the primary plaque score were 78% …

Oral Health Education And Dental Care Access Of Families Of Children With Down Syndrome In New Mexico, Alayna Marissa Holcomb

Dental Hygiene ETDs

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the oral health education and dental care access of families of children with Down syndrome in New Mexico.

Methods: The data were gathered from a survey available to members of the Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network for 14 days containing 13 questions.

Results: The most reported age range for the individuals in care were 0-14 years at 41.6%. Most individuals with Down syndrome receive dental services every six months (62.5%) at a regular dental office (54.2%). Caregivers reported the individuals are taking 1-2 prescription medications (54.2%) and not aware of …

Tongue Posture And Effects On Overall Health: A Dental Hygiene Curriculum Assessment, Kelly Brackeen

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Research shows that proper tongue posture can impact quality of life, stability of the mouth, and have effects on overall wellness. Dental hygienists have a unique position to be able to identify tongue placement disorders. The objective of this study was to identify to what extent dental hygiene students are being taught orofacial myofunction during dental hygiene education. A survey link was emailed to all program directors in the United States regarding the teaching of orofacial myofunction within their respective programs. Using descriptive analysis, 44%, or less than half reported that their program curriculum includes teaching students proper resting position …

Dental Therapists: Arizona Dentists’ Perceptions And Attitudes Towards The Workforce Model, Autumn Butler

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Dental therapists have emerged as a solution to improve access to dental care. Understanding Arizona dentists' attitudes towards dental therapists is crucial in the successful integration into the dental workforce and its potential to be a viable solution. Licensed dentists in Arizona were invited to participate in an anonymous study. Participants were asked questions regarding the scope of practice, current educational standards, and quality of treatment to determine the attitudes of dentists towards dental therapists. Eight dentists licensed in Arizona participated in the survey (N=8). The study found concerns among Arizona dentists regarding the treatment quality and educational standards (N=3; …

Effect Of Alkaline Water In Controlling Oral Ph, Duc M. Nguyen

Dental Hygiene ETDs

This study was motivated by the widespread prevalence of dental caries, acknowledged as a global concern and often deemed a pandemic, coupled with the realization of limitations in existing caries prevention methods. The surge in the popularity of alkaline water for daily use, recognized for its health benefits, prompted an exploration of its potential role in averting dental caries. The central hypothesis, focusing on the remineralization benefits of alkaline water as a preventive method for dental caries, formed the basis of investigation. Structured with two phases and five steps, the study aimed to evaluate the impact of alkaline water on …

Analysis Of Interprofessional Education Inclusion Within U.S. Dental Hygiene Programs’ Curricula, Jennifer M. Pacheco

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The purpose of this study was to collect information on the implementation of IPE activities within U.S. dental hygiene programs and whether program faculty are implementing these components into their program curricula. Furthermore, the study would identify which types of IPE activities were being conducted and if these activities met the CODA standards. An original survey was sent out to dental hygiene program directors and faculty. Results revealed both programs agreed that IPE is a significant component to include in hygiene curricula to better equip students as members of the healthcare team to deliver comprehensive care. IPE activities implemented were …

Immigrational Trauma: An Assessment Of Dental Phobia And Access To Care In Undocumented Individuals, Nora J. Vences Ortiz

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The purpose of this study is to assess immigrational trauma as it relates to dental phobia in accessing care from undocumented individuals. Immigrating from a country to the United States presents with unique challenges. These challenges include language barriers, traumatic experiences and cultural factors. These individuals also have perceived notions regarding their treatment with a physician or dentist as their immigration status may or may not be revealed during their care. If reported, they face deportation to their country of origin placing them in the danger they originally fled from. Survey data was collected using REDCap and distributed to students …

Examining The Effects Of Iron-Oxide Nanoparticles On Primary Gingival Keratinocytes For The Prevention Of Oral Disease, Jennifer C. Carranza

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Oral plaque biofilm has been identified as the primary contributor to dental conditions such as dental caries and periodontal disease that promotes a diverse and pervasive collection of microbial species to inhabit the oral cavity. Disrupting the plaque matrix early could help combat this global disease burden. This study evaluated the effect of IONPs on primary gingival keratinocytes.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine existing research regarding nanoparticles and determine if IONPs affect the PGK cell membranes with preliminary research to find the maximum lysis possible with PGK cells.

Methods: IONP core/shell syntheses were performed. Considering keratinocyte characteristics, examining data …

An Assessment Of Pregnant Women's Value And Utilization Of Oral Health Care During Pregnancy, Angelica M. Sanchez

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The intention of this survey was to examine the value and utilization of dental services during pregnancy, to identify the value being placed on oral health and dental services during pregnancy. Also, to assess if the women received oral health education from obstetric providers. Pregnancy temporarily increases the risk of periodontal diseases, the prevalence of periodontal diseases is very high during pregnancy, 60-75% of women can be affected. Previous literature suggests that poor oral health is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre-term births, low birth weights, and pre-eclampsia. Data was obtained and collected using REDCap. Utilizing the collected …

Silver Diamine Fluoride: Preventing Dental Caries, Renee S. Bingman

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Purpose

The study was designed to determine awareness and knowledge of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) among dental hygiene program directors and determine if schools have included SDF education to their curriculum.

Methods

A descriptive survey was used to gather information from all United States dental hygiene program directors.

Results

The survey had a max response from 39 school directors. With 92.31% of schools indicating SDF as a product of interest only 76.92% currently provided education to students. There are 76.92% of schools providing SDF education to students yet only 34.21% of those schools are providing SDF education to the faculty. …

Oral Health Literacy Status Of School Staff Members In Southern Minnesota, Gabrielle Sullivan

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Purpose:

This study evaluated the oral health literacy OHL of school staff in Southern Minnesota. OHL is the degree to which individuals can understand health information. Dental caries is the most common chronic disease in school aged children, and school staff members spend a large portion of the day with children. Therefore, it is important for all school staff members to have a moderate or higher OHL status.

Methods:

The survey used a convenience sample of school staff in 3 different schools in southern Minnesota and used the REALD-30 OHL instrument with slight modification, to simplify data collection.

Results:

Fifty …

An Evaluation Of Dental Hygiene Education Of Chemotherapeutic Rinses: A Survey, Marissa Terese Aragoon

Dental Hygiene ETDs

The purpose of this study was to learn which oral chemotherapeutic rinses dental hygiene educators cover within dental hygiene curriculum. A survey was created to include dental hygiene educators responsible for oral chemotherapeutic curriculum within dental hygiene programs. Participants were asked which oral chemotherapeutic agents they included within their curriculum, their knowledge regarding several oral chemotherapeutic agents and evidence based/ non evidence based oral chemotherapeutic agents. The survey was sent to 375 dental hygiene directors and 77 (20.5%) participated in the survey study. Upon survey completion, findings suggested that the majority of dental hygiene educators teach students how to determine …