Dental Hygiene Commons^™

Efficacy Of A Mouthwash Containing Standardized Centella Asiatica Extract (Eca 233) In Patients With Gingivitis: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial, Alisa Awapark, Wanchai Chongcharoen, Mayuree H. Tantisira, Nattapon Rotpenpian

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Gingivitis is the earliest and most reversible stage of periodontal disease, characterized by inflammation of the gingiva caused by the accumulation of plaque. In addition to removing plaque, mouthwash containing antiseptic or anti-inflammatory could be used as an adjunct therapy.
Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a 0.10% standardized Centella asiatica extract (ECa 233) mouthwash compared to 0.12% chlorhexidine and placebo mouthwashes in individuals with gingivitis.
Materials and Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 75 patients assigned equally to ECa 233, chlorhexidine, or placebo groups. Participants used the assigned …

Clinical Outcomes Of Adjunctive Use Of Oxygen-Releasing Formula In Non-Surgical Treatment Of Periodontal Abscess Associated With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Anil Kumar Kanakamedala, Laxmi Kavya Gangireddy, Gautami S Penmetsa, Sruthima Gottumukkala, Mohan Kumar Pasupuleti, Konathala Santhosh Venkata Ramesh

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of oxygen-releasing formula (ORF) as an adjunct in the non-surgical management of periodontal abscess in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods: This split-mouth clinical trial was conducted on 14 patients with periodontal abscess with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who were divided into a control group, nonsurgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) alone, and a test group (NSPT+ORF). Parameters such as Landry's healing index (HI) were evaluated at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month. Probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing presence or absence (BOP) …

Psychosocial And Functional Impact Of Temporomandibular Disorder Subtypes Among Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study In Indonesia, Ni Luh Dewi, Wita Anggraini, Maria Valiente-Lopez, Carolina Marpaung

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) affect psychological, functional, and pain-related aspects of oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). However, the differential impact of pain-related and non-pain-related TMDs remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different TMD subtypes on psychological distress, jaw function, and OHRQoL in young adults and to determine whether pain-related TMDs exert a greater effect than non-pain-related TMDs.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 278 university students (aged 18–24 years) were categorized into no TMD (NT), pain-related TMD (PT), intra-articular TMD (IT), and combined TMD (CT). Diagnoses were made using the 5Ts Questionnaire screening tool …

Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting In Dental Practice And The Importance Of Pharmacovigilance In Dental Education, Radhakrishna Lagishetty, Lakshmi Ramya T, Kvr Barath Raju, Mohan Kumar Pasupuleti

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a critical component of patient safety; however, ADR monitoring remains underutilized in dentistry. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding ADR reporting among undergraduate and postgraduate students and practicing dentists.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using a structured, validated 19-item questionnaire covering socio-demographics, knowledge (6 items), attitude (4 items), and practice (5 items), which was distributed both in person and online. A total of 258 complete responses were analyzed out of 300 individuals contacted (response rate: 86%). Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were applied, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results …

Investigation Of Patients' Use Of Non-Pharmacological Substances In Dental Pain Management, Neslihan Yılmaz Çırakoğlu, Özgenur Kaya

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Dental pain is a complex condition influenced by biological, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors. Before seeking professional care, many patients attempt to relieve dental pain using self-administered, non-medical agents. This study aimed to investigate patients’ use of non-pharmacological substances in dental pain management and to identify factors influencing these practices.

Methods: The questionnaire consisted of four sections addressing demographic characteristics, oral hygiene habits, pain characteristics, and pain-relief agents. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test. Categorical data are presented as frequencies and percentages, while continuous data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation and median values. …

Orthodontic Camouflage Treatment Of A Severe Class Iii Skeletal Pattern With Anterior Open Bite: A Case Report, Dikeledi Maureen Letsholo, Mandla Dominic Nyakale, Mosimane Peter Silas Sethusa

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Class III malocclusion combined with anterior open bite (AOB) is one of the most challenging occlusal problems to treat. The objective of this article was to report a case of an adult female patient diagnosed with Class III malocclusion combined with an anterior open bite and a hyperdivergent facial pattern.

Case Report: Camouflage orthodontic treatment with the extraction of maxillary and mandibular first premolars was used to treat the patient. Anterior teeth were retracted maximally against the Nance holding arch and fixed lingual arch appliances, and box elastics were used to close AOB. At the end of …

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 …

Revising A Clinical Assessment Tool: A Community College Dental Hygiene Program Case Study, Kristen Portner-Lauerman Dhsc, Mha, Rdh

Oral Health

This article examines how one community college dental hygiene program implemented revisions to a clinical assessment tool to better support novice learners. A review of the literature explores the characteristics of early learners, psychomotor skill acquisition, the Dreyfus model, and assessment tools. The method used was a descriptive case study designed to address the research question: What processes did a dental hygiene program use to implement revisions to a clinical assessment tool to support students’ development of essential clinical skills? The findings highlight the importance of aligning assessment tools with learners’ developmental stages to enhance clinical education and offer a …

Self-Reported Gum Bleeding, Oral Health Behaviors, And Cardiovascular Risk Indicators Among Adults Aged 45-70 In A Community Dental Setting., Kimberleigh Edwards

Population Health Leadership and Analytics Theses

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adults in the United States, particularly during midlife and older adulthood. Periodontal inflammation and poor oral hygiene behaviors have been linked to increased cardiovascular risk through systemic inflammatory pathways. This exploratory cross-sectional study described patterns of self reported gum bleeding, oral hygiene behaviors, and cardiovascular risk factors among 29 adults aged 45 to 70 at a community dental clinic using the researcher-developed Oral and Heart Health Study Questionnaire. Fourteen participants reported both gum bleeding and at least one cardiovascular risk factor. Participants who reported inconsistent flossing and infrequent professional …

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 …

In Silico Model Of Musa Acuminata Stem As An Anticancer On Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Against Egfr, Nevrila Dewi Rachmayani, Amy Nindia Carabelly, I Wayan Arya Krishnawan Firdaus, Maharani Laillyza Apriasari, Juliyatin Putri Utami

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is characterized by overexpression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Citral, eucalyptol, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), which are derived from Musa acuminata, have shown anticancer activity. This study evaluated the potential of citral, eucalyptol, and CAPE from Musa acuminata as anticancer agents for OSCC by targeting EGFR using an in silico approach.

Methods: Potential biological activity was predicted using Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances (PASS) Online. Molecular docking was conducted with AutoDock Vina, and BIOVIA Discovery Studio was used to analyze binding affinity, interaction types, and bond …

Micro-Ct Evaluation Of Root Canal Transportation And Centering Ability In Mesial Canals Of Mandibular First Molars, Selen Ince Yusufoglu, Esma Saricam, Mert Ocak, Ferhat Geneci, Burak Bilecenoğlu

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: This study aimed to evaluate canal transportation, centering ability, structure model index (SMI), surface area, and root canal volume changes in the mesial canals of mandibular first molars using micro-CT.

Methods: Twenty-four mandibular first molars with two separate mesial canals and moderate curvature were included. Teeth were scanned using micro-CT before instrumentation and randomly divided into three groups (N = 8). Root canals were prepared using OneShape, OneCurve, and Rotate file systems, followed by post-instrumentation micro-CT scanning (10µm/pixel resolution). Changes in canal volume, surface area, transportation, centering ability, and SMI were analyzed at the apical, middle, and …

Evaluation Of An Audiovisual Educational Tool With Reinforcement Messages For Orthodontic Patients: A 6-Month Randomized Controlled Trial, Laura Restrepo Quijano, Maria Paula Vasco Gomez, Natalia Hurtado Velasquez, Luis Fabian Benitez Moreno

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Background: Orthodontic treatment increases the risk of bacterial plaque accumulation; therefore, oral hygiene education is essential to prevent complications, but its impact is usually limited when it is not reinforced with effective tools. This study aims to evaluate an audiovisual educational tool with reinforcement messages, compared with a verbal explanation about the proper use of the orthodontic oral hygiene kit.

Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial that included 62 patients randomly assigned to an intervention group: 31 patients who received an educational video plus three reinforcement messages via WhatsApp, and a control group: 31 patients who received …

Potential Applications Of Thymus Vulgaris In Dental Care: A Review Of Antimicrobial And Oral Health Benefits, Lakenzia Z. Ham

Undergraduate Research Conference

This research proposal focuses on how common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) can be used in dental care. There has been more interest in natural products for dental health because some common dental treatments can have side effects or lead to antibiotic resistance. Thyme contains natural compounds like thymol and carvacrol that help kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, and prevent buildup on teeth.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the current scientific literature to see the effectiveness of thyme in preventing common oral health problems like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Research shows that thyme can fight bacteria …

Exploring The Perceptions Of United States Dentists And Dental Hygienists Towards Implementation Of New Workforce Shortage Policies, Hite N. Jones

Dental Hygiene Theses & Dissertations

Background: There is a perceived national dental hygiene shortage causing delays in receiving preventive treatment and potentially increasing oral disease risk. States are proposing alternative pathways to allow less-trained individuals to provide dental hygiene care to fill this perceived gap. There is no research to support whether such measures would mitigate the shortage issue. Purpose: Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of United States (U.S.) dentists and dental hygienists (DH) towards the implementation of new workforce shortage policies and contributing factors and solutions to the workforce shortage. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study included a convenience …

Perceptions Of Virginia Dentists And Dental Hygienists Towards Emerging Alternative Dental Hygiene Workforce Provider Models, Lauren B. Mangum

Dental Hygiene Theses & Dissertations

Background: A perceived shortage of dental hygienists in the United States has been linked to delays in preventive care and concerns about declining oral health outcomes. In response, some states have proposed alternative pathways permitting internationally trained dentists, dental students, and oral preventive assistants (OPAs) with limited or inconsistent education requirements to provide dental hygiene services. Limited evidence exists regarding whether these strategies would effectively address access to care and workforce challenges. Concerns have also been raised about the potential effects of expanding scope of practice for providers with limited education or training on patient safety and quality of care. …

Racial Disparities Among Pregnant Women Of Color And Their High Risk For Developing Periodontal Disease, Darrylnn Mayo

Pacific Journal of Health

This qualitative study explored the oral health experiences of four women of color during their pregnancies. Data was collected through interviews and presented as case studies. Although existing literature indicated that pregnant women of color are at a higher risk for developing periodontal disease, the participants in this case study reported actively engaging with their dental care providers, daily intake of prenatal vitamins with practice of self-oral care, and compliance with oral hygiene instructions. Further studies should investigate larger sample populations with broader minority ethnic groups to help explore the determinants of racial disparities and strategize ways to reduce barriers …

The Mouth As A Mirror: A Parent- Hygienist’S Ethical Reflections On Oral Healthcare And Pompe Disease, Anika Atkins Ma, Rdh

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This reflective narrative explores the ethical tensions and emotional realities of a dental hygienist who is also the parent of a child with Pompe disease. Drawing from personal experience and care ethics philosophy, the author examines how traditional clinical frameworks—centered on autonomy, beneficence, and protocol— often fall short when addressing the needs of medically fragile children. The piece weaves in the work of care ethicists and pastoral ministry to embrace the philosophy of caregiving as presence, to suggest that oral healthcare must evolve to include responsiveness, context, and relationship-based decision-making. Through the dual lens of provider and parent, the narrative …

J Am Coll Dent 2026 92 2a

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This special issue of the Journal of the American College of Dentists responds to a growing but long-underrecognized demand for humanities and ethics in dental education, practice, and scholarship. It emerges from the work of the National Collaborative on Humanities and Ethics in Dentistry (NCHED), a multi-institutional partnership formed in 2023 to address the persistent exclusion of dentistry from broader health humanities conversations. Through national webinars and scholarly collaboration, NCHED has demonstrated substantial interest in ethical reflection, historical analysis, narrative inquiry, and the arts as essential to understanding oral health and dental care. The unexpectedly strong response to the call …

From Silos To Systems: A Conceptual Framework For Workforce Aligned Oral Health Education, Meghan Bastin

2026 Scholarly Teaching Conference: Poster Session Papers

In the current U.S. educational system, becoming a dentist follows a few prescriptive pathways.  Learners typically complete an undergraduate degree before entering time-intensive doctoral training.  This results in only 3-4 years of direct professional education embedded within an eight -year process, while learners accumulate significant financial investment in their education.  With the average cost of graduate-level dental education alone exceeding $300,000 and new federal borrowing limits likely to further constrain access, there is an opportunity to explore alternative ways of structuring oral health education.

This poster presents a conceptual, system-level framework that explores a perspective in which oral health education …

What About Our Teen-Age Patients?, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial advocates for "mentally treating" teenage patients, specifically those around 14 years of age, as adults. By respecting their concerns and allowing age-appropriate decisions, clinicians can enhance a teen's dental IQ and self-esteem. This approach fosters confidence, communication, and independence, encouraging patients to take accountability for their treatment outcomes. Respectful dialogue leads to better compliance with home care, such as using rotary brushes or wearing retainers. Ultimately, treating teenagers with empathy and valuing their opinions helps them blossom into responsible adults while building lasting professional bonds.

Examining The Association Of Maternal Oral Health Experiences With Adverse Birth Outcomes: Findings From Virginia's Prams Survey, May Salama, Abdullah Al-Taiar, Denise C. Mckinney, Li-Wu Chen, Anwar T. Merchant

Epidemiology, Biostatistics, & Environmental Health Faculty Publications

Background

Preterm birth (PTB) and low birth weight (LBW) are significant public health challenges globally, contributing to neonatal morbidity, mortality, and long-term complications. Maternal oral health has been increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to PTB and LBW, yet there is inconclusive evidence about the effectiveness of dental cleaning in preventing PTB and LBW. This study examined the association between dental cleaning during pregnancy and the prevalence of PTB and LBW using data from the Virginia Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS).

Methods

We analyzed data from Virginia PRAMS Phases 7 and 8, spanning a 10-year period from 2012 to …

Infection Control Across Clinical And Laboratory Dental Settings Protocols, Risks, And The Role Of Emerging Technologies, Khrystyna Vyprynyuk, Laura Andreesku

Publications and Research

This article explores infection prevention strategies and disease transmission pathways in dental settings, emphasizing the critical connection between clinical practice and dental laboratories. It highlights the risks of cross-contamination, disinfection and sterilization challenges, and the growing role of technology in enhancing infection control.

Impact Of An Educational Video Intervention On Word Recognition And Vocabulary Knowledge Of Paediatric Dental Terms Among Low-Income Caregivers Of Youth Children, Melissa L. Sullivan, Denise C. Mckinney, Abdullah Al-Taiar, Deanne Shuman

Dental Hygiene Faculty Publications

Objective

To evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on paediatric dental term recognition and vocabulary knowledge among low-income caregivers of young children.

Methods

A randomized two-group pretest-posttest trial was used to analyze the impact of an educational intervention on caregivers' word recognition and vocabulary knowledge of paediatric dental terms. The study included 60 pregnant women and caregivers with children enrolled in a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in the Southeastern United States. Both groups received an educational pamphlet on children's oral health. The experimental group also received an educational video with common paediatric dental …

Leading The Way In Pediatric Oral Health Promotion, Denise C. Mckinney

Dental Hygiene Faculty Publications

[Introduction] Dental hygienists promote oral health and provide preventive services to patients throughout their lifespan. The Commission on Dental Accreditation, Dental Hygiene Standards emphasize that graduates must be competent in providing dental hygiene care for all patient populations, including children.¹ In fact, promoting pediatric oral health begins prior to birth with the expectant mother and/or caregiver. Oral health care to include education is essential during pregnancy; specifically, around the prevention and treatment of dental caries for the mother and the unborn child.² In the U.S., from 2013-2016, roughly 30% of women aged 20-44 years had untreated dental caries.³ Expectant mothers …

Biological Dental Hygiene: Principles, Educational Pathways, And Clinical Practice Considerations, Tara Newcomb

Dental Hygiene Faculty Publications

Dental hygiene practice is rapidly evolving in response to emerging evidence on the oral–systemic health connection, advances in preventive technologies, and increased emphasis on individualized, minimally invasive care. A commitment to lifelong learning and continuing professional development is essential for maintaining clinical competence and integrating new scientific knowledge into practice. Biological dental hygiene has emerged as a complementary framework that emphasizes whole-body health, biocompatibility, reduction of toxic exposures, and prevention-centered care. This approach expands traditional dental hygiene practice by incorporating enhanced risk assessment, salivary diagnostics, targeted preventive strategies, as well as patient education focused on nutrition, inflammation reduction, and systemic …

Perbandingan Faktor Risiko Gangguan Kesehatan Gigi Dan Mulut Pada Usia 20-59 Tahun Berdasarkan Wilayah Di Indonesia: Analisis Survei Kesehatan Indonesia (Ski) Tahun 2023, Khadijah Qurrata Ayun, Asri Adisasmita Prof

Jurnal Epidemiologi Kesehatan Indonesia

Oral and dental health is one of the indicators of health, well- being, and quality of life. In addition, poor oral health can increase the economic burden, including treatment costs, loss of work productivity, and worsen the burden of other diseases. Globally, the average prevalence of dental and oral diseases is around 45%. In 2023, dental and oral health problems in Indonesia reach 57,6%. This study aims to analyze risk factors for dental and oral health disorders among people aged 20-59 years based on regions in Indonesia. This study uses a cross- sectional design. The secondary data used is data …

The Assessment Of Ageism In Dental Hygiene Students And Dental Hygienists: A Cross-Sectional Study, Paolo Boffano, Elena Canciani, Valeria Nikolovska, Francesca Santeusanio, Andrea Melle

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: Ageism is a common type of discrimination and prejudice that consists in the stereotyping and discrimination against individuals or groups on the basis of their age.The purpose of this study was to assess dental hygienists and dental hygiene students’ attitudes toward geriatric patients, the perceptions of curriculum suitability, and their confidence in treating geriatric patients, together with an assessment of ageism in the study population.

Methods: A survey was conducted among dental hygienists and dental hygiene students. The first part of the questionnaire contained questions related to demographics, and regarding their opinion on treatment in the geriatric population. The …

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. …