Other Dentistry Commons^™

The Anxious Patient: How Breathing, Presence, And Calming Cues Transform What Happens In The Dental Chair, Kelly Davis Pt, Dpt, Faaompt, Mt

New Orleans Dental Association News

In part two of her three-part series for NODA News, Dr. Kelly Davis, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT, MTC, explains why a dentist's own regulation is one of the most powerful tools in the operatory. Dental anxiety triggers a genuine sympathetic nervous system response — elevated heart rate, muscle guarding in the jaw and neck, and a body primed for threat — that makes procedures harder for patient and clinician. Dr. Davis introduces co-regulation, the neuroscience-backed principle that a calm, grounded provider can help settle an anxious patient's nervous system through presence alone. She offers concrete, simple techniques dentists can use before, …

J Mich Dent Assoc Sept. 2026

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association delivers news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200-plus members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons.

The September 2026 (Volume 108, No. 9) issue of the Journal is published in print format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions occur every other month beginning with January.

This full compilation of the September 2026 Journal of the Michigan Dental Association features the deans' reports from the …

The Effect Of Social Media On Orthodontics: The Patient And Practitioner Perspective, Corban Ward, Jacob Marx, Man Hung, Samuel Dyal, Alicia Parry

Annual Research Symposium

Introduction Social media now shapes how people find information, connect and form identity. It increasingly influences cultural standards around  health and appearance. In orthodontics, these platforms are reshaping public perceptions, attitudes and treatment decisions. This review synthesizes existing research on social media’s impact on how people view and choose orthodontic care.

Methods A PRISMA guided review searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for  peer-reviewed English-language studies published between 2015 and 2025. Using terms such as “social media,” “orthodontic treatment,” “dental esthetics,” “perception,” we included studies assessing how social media shapes public beliefs, behaviors, and  self-perception related to orthodontic care. …

Unpacking And Re-Imagining Dental Ethics With Anti-Oppressive And Interdisciplinary Praxis, Eleanor Fleming Phd, Dds, Mph, Ficd, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Dental ethics are assumed to be neutral in their intent. With a social contract grounded in liberalism and assumptions centering whiteness, the resulting ethics reinforce hierarchy, otherness, and inequities. Because concepts and practices are rarely neutral, dental ethics is embedded with biases, which results in it falling short of the demands of the 21st century and exacerbating health inequities rather than supporting efforts for health justice. This manuscript invites the reader to reflect critically and re-imagine dental ethics using anti-oppressive and interdisciplinary praxis. For the improvement of public health, the narrowing of inequities, and a functioning oral health system, the …

Lessons On Generative Artificial Intelligence From The American Association Of Dental Editors And Journalists (Aadej), Christopher J. Smiley

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists (AADEJ) recently released "Guidance for Authors, Editors and Publishers on the Use of Generative AI". Developed by an 11-member stakeholder panel, this guidance paper serves a dual purpose: It provides practical strategies for mitigating the risks that generative artificial intelligence (GAI) poses to professional writing and explains how GAI creates these risks. Understanding both the underlying vulnerabilities of GAI and how to address them is critical for users at all levels, from authors and reviewers to editors, publishers, and general users, to maintain the validity and reliability of their written work. This …

Silent Signals: Human Trafficking And The Dental Professional’S Duty To Act, Pamela Zarkowski

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Human trafficking is a global public health and human rights crisis that includes forced labor and commercial sexual exploitation. Dental professionals are uniquely positioned to recognize signs of trafficking, as many victims encounter healthcare settings, including dental offices, during their exploitation. This article introduces the types and prevalence of trafficking, outlines legal and ethical responsibilities, and provides clinical red flags, case scenarios, and actionable strategies for screening and reporting. Myths that hinder detection are also addressed. By recognizing their ethical duty to protect vulnerable patients, dental professionals can become vital allies in the identification and support of trafficking survivors.

Digital Media, Truth Decay, And The Inversion Of Trust In Science, Nicholas Mosca

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Digital media enables the rapid dissemination of scientific oral health information from subject experts to the public. However, it also poses significant risks by facilitating the dissemination of misinformation and disinformation, thereby blurring the boundaries between truth and fallacy. This paper characterizes the decay of scientific truth in policymaking, characterized by increased public debate about scientific facts and a decline in confidence in science. It describes psychological mechanisms, such as confirmation bias and motivated reasoning, and social dynamics, including algorithm-driven content distribution and echo chambers, that accelerate the circulation of misleading science information. It suggests psychological interventions to counter misinformation, …

Ethical Dilemmas Surrounding Community Water Fluoridation, Roopwant Kaur, Herminio Perez, Mark Moss

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Since the 1950s, community water fluoridation (CWF) has stood as a cornerstone of dental public health. However, a growing amount of public scrutiny necessitates reflection on the ethical basis for coming to a firm position on the topic. Aside from CWF, fluoride in the form of ingestible supplements has recently been identified as a concern by the US Food and Drug Administration. Indeed, it is challenging to wade through the facts, opinions, misinformation, and policy shifts. This article examines the ethical dilemmas that surround CWF through the lens of the American Dental Association (ADA) Principles of Ethics and Code of …

J Am Coll Dent 2025 92 1

Journal of the American College of Dentists

The Journal of the American College of Dentists (JACD) publishes scholarly articles, editorials, essays, and reflections addressing the ethical, professional, and social dimensions of dentistry. The Journal serves as a forum for advancing ethics, professionalism, leadership, and excellence within the dental community. By fostering dialogue across disciplines and perspectives, JACD provides readers with insights that encourage ethical, professional practice, lifelong learning, and service to the public, reinforcing dentistry’s commitment to advancing oral healthcare and the common good.

Aadej Comm 11 3 2025

AADEJ - The Communicator

The Communicator is the Journal of the American Association of Dental Editors. It is published quarterly and distributed digitally via email to members and posted on the Association’s website aadej.org. This issue of The Communicator features articles focused on organizational strategy, publishing ethics, and critical issues in the profession. The Editor-in-Chief announces his intention to step down, reflecting on the organization's history. The President advocates for shifting the organizational focus from individual benefits to collective sustainability ("What’s in it for us?"). Organizational updates include the restructuring of the Publication Membership to allow three voting members for the same fee and …

The New Professional: Reimagining Rapport: Innovative Ways Dental Teams Connect With Patients, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores innovative communication strategies for dental practices to enhance patient interaction. It highlights the importance of digital onboarding for streamlined intake, two-way text messaging for efficient appointments, and personalized video messages to foster connection. Practices are adopting multilingual communication and AI tools like chatbots for 24/7 inquiry handling, integrating them with patient records for tailored responses. Interactive platforms with 3D visuals and video tutorials are used for patient education, empowering them in oral health decisions. The article also emphasizes leveraging social media for engagement, capturing real-time patient feedback, and maintaining empathy-driven human interaction despite technological advancements

Commencement Program 2025, Loma Linda University

Commencement Programs

CONTENTS

2 | Message from the President

3 | 2025 Events of Commencement

5 | The Academic Procession

6 | Institutional Administration

7 | Board of Trustees

8 | Significance of Academic Regalia

9 | University History Highlights

11 | Criteria for Institutional Awards

13 | Loma Linda University Health and Loma Linda University Honorees

The Programs, The School Honorees, and The Speakers

29 | School of Medicine

50 | School of Pharmacy

63 | School of Dentistry

81 | School of Public Health

94 | San Manuel Gateway College

101 | School of Allied Health Professions - Allied Health …

The Effect Of Antemortem Tooth Loss On Craniofacial Shape In Apes And Humans, Ashley R. Laster

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

Antemortem tooth loss (AMTL) (i.e., defined as tooth loss occurring before death) is common among humans and many primates, and several studies have examined AMTL across various primate groups. Some research indicates that AMTL can influence masticatory function and diet; however, the effects of AMTL on craniofacial shape and biomechanics have not been extensively analyzed. We assessed craniofacial and mandibular shape in relation to AMTL, anticipating that individuals with at least one tooth lost antemortem would display significant differences in cranial and/or mandibular shape compared to those without AMTL. AMTL rates were evaluated in three primate species: wild-caught samples of …

Evaluation Of Mandibular Condyle And Coronoid Process Anomalies Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, Rümeysa Şendişçi Gök, Bilay Stevanovic Sancar, Sevcihan Günen Yılmaz

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of condylar and coronoid process anomalies, their types, and their relationship to sex. Method: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were retrospectively analyzed for the presence and types of abnormalities in the condylar and coronoid processes. Statistical analysis of measurement data was performed using SPSS version 22. Medical histories of the individuals were obtained from their digital dental records. Results: CBCT images of 400 individuals were included in the study. Condylar anomalies were observed in 9.5% of cases, while coronoid anomalies were found in 7.5%. All condylar anomalies were more …

The Ethical Dilemma Of Social Media, Janet H. Southerland

New Orleans Dental Association News

Social media has transformed dentistry, enhancing communication, education, and patient engagement. However, ethical challenges, including privacy concerns and misinformation, pose risks. This article explores the benefits and challenges of social media in dentistry, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines to uphold professional standards while leveraging digital advancements for improved care and education.

Dental Compacts, Bill Sullivan Jd

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

This Advocacy Avenue article covers all things dental compacts, including current policy. It is adapted from an interview with Bill Sullivan, MDA Vice President of Advocacy and Professional Affairs.

Adpac And You

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

This Advocacy Avenue article is adapted from an interview with MDA Trustee and District 9 ADPAC Board Member Michelle Szewczyk.

The MDA and ADA invest a great deal of manpower and finance to bring value to the membership in the form of advocacy. This is critical, as dentists’ collective interests are represented by the MDA/ADA.

Lobby Day creates a space for attendees to engage with political analysts and subject matter experts who are working with Congress and other federal officials to represent our profession. There were more than 1,200 attendees at this year's Lobby Day, a record for the ADA. …

Incisal Trait Variations Between Javanese And Chinese-Indonesians In Surabaya, Rahmat Avianto, Sayf Muhammad Alaydrus, Myrtati Dyah Artaria, Yao-Fong Chen

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Human teeth are unique since one population’s dental pattern might differ from another. Such specific dental characteristics, such as the incisor, are observable in each dentition. Objective: his study analyzed the population differences in Javanese and Chinese-Indonesian populations through observations of the incisal traits, namely winging, shoveling, and double shoveling. Methods: 50 dental casts (76 Javanese samples and 74 Chinese- Indonesian samples) were obtained from Dr. Myrtati Dyah Artaria’s private collection, stored in the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga. The traits were observed and scored using the Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System (ASUDAS) and analyzed statistically using crosstab …

Take Action To Address Virginia’S Dental Workforce Needs, Ryan Dunn

Virginia Dental Journal

This article lays out the facts about the dental workforce situation in Virginia and offers potential solutions. The state's dental workforce is under pressure, with rising demand for dental assistants and hygienists and ongoing hiring challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. Despite having more dentists than the national average, rural areas still face shortages. The Virginia Dental Association (VDA) encourages members to support local dental programs, share their workforce challenges, and participate in advocacy efforts. The VDA is actively involved in finding both short-term and long-term solutions to meet the state's dental care needs.

The Mda Forensic Dental Team Needs More Volunteers, Patrick Houlihan Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association Forensic Dental Identification Team (MDA-FDIT) urgently needs more volunteers. In this article, learn of their impressive record of service to the public and the profession, which has been widely recognized for the important role it plays in the identification of both individual victims and those of mass disasters. Formed in the early 1980s, MDA-FDIT plays a crucial role in identifying disaster victims using dental records. The team has been instrumental in identifying victims from incidents like the 1987 Northwest Flight 255 crash and has assisted in various mass-casualty situations, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. MDA-FDIT works …

Everyone Deserves A Dental Home, Loren C. Baim Dds

The New York State Dental Journal

With knowledge and preparation, dental practices should be able to accommodate the growing population of people on the autism spectrum.

The Mda’S Michigan Donated Dental Services (Dds) Program: How To Serve The Elderly And Disabled In Your Community And Build Your Team (Without Leaving Your Office!), April Stopczynski

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

April Stopczynski, MDA Manager of Access and Prevention, sheds light on the Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, elucidating its impact on individuals through poignant patient narratives and dentist testimonials. The article illustrates how DDS bridges the gap in dental care for the elderly, disabled, and financially compromised individuals in Michigan. The program not only restores smiles but also transforms lives by providing much-needed dental treatment through volunteer dentists and labs. This article presents the value of DDS for patients, providers, dental team members and the greater community. Information is provided on how to participate in this transformative program.

Advocacy Spotlight: Important: State Issues Changes To Delegation Of Duties Rules, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Board of Dentistry has introduced changes to the rules governing the delegation of duties to dental auxiliaries, including the reclassification of "dental assistants" (those not formally trained or licensed) as "unregistered dental auxiliaries" (UDAs). The classification Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) remains. Changes involve the supervision levels for specific tasks and guiding training UDAs for orthodontic duties. Notable changes include allowing UDAs to perform certain orthodontic tasks and expanding their scope of work to include duties such as taking impressions, polishing, and providing nutritional counseling. Dental professionals should know these changes and the supervision required for delegation to UDAs …

Commencement Program 2023, Loma Linda University

Commencement Programs

CONTENTS

1 | Message from the President

3 | 2023 Events of Commencement

5 | The Academic Procession

6 | Institutional Administration

7 | Board of Trustees

8 | Significance of Academic Regalia

9 | University History Highlights

11 | Criteria for Institutional Awards

13 | Loma Linda University Health and Loma Linda University Honorees

25 | The Program, The School Honorees, and The Speakers

• School of Medicine, 26
• School of Pharmacy, 52
• School of Dentistry, 69
• School of Public Health, 93
• San Manuel Gateway College, 108
• School of Allied Health Professions—Allied Health Studies, Cardiopulmonary Sciences, Clinical Laboratory Science, Communication …

Special Needs In Pediatric Dentistry, Emma Kail

Health Sciences Presentations

Over the summer of 2022 I got the chance to work on my internship at a special needs and non special needs focused dentistry. Through this presentation I focus mainly on the pediatric special needs aspect of the dental care given to patients. Throughout the poster I speak about the importance of special needs care within dentistry and the field of dental health itself, where I worked and how they accommodated and worked with those with special needs to give the best care possible, and finally how this experience has changed my goals set for my future, especially within the …

A Dentist's Role In The Delivery Of Culturally Competent Oral Health Care To Transgender Patients, Laura Rhein Dds, Benjamin Solomowitz Dmd, Michael Mand Dds

The New York State Dental Journal

The importance of delivering patient-centered care is understood by professionals across all healthcare fields. But to deliver such patient-centered care involves understanding various patient populations, especially marginalized populations. Rendering non-biased, non-prejudicial care to marginalized populations is irrefutably critical. To do so, it requires understanding the specific needs of these at-risk populations to deliver high quality patient-centered care. The transgender community is one marginalized population that faces inequities in healthcare. This article seeks to examine current literature to reveal such inequities that the transgender population encounters in dental care and to explore the dentist’s role in the delivery of culturally competent …

Oral Health Considerations For Aging Patients Living With Hiv/Aids, Madeleine Daily Dds, Susan Liu Dds, Yuna Park Dds, Mph, Ms, Emily Byington Msw, Ivette Estrada Ma, Mphil, Sunil Wadhwa Dds, Carol Kunzel Phd

The New York State Dental Journal

People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) have an increased life expectancy due to advances in antiretroviral therapy. In 1996, the life expectancy for a 20-year old living with HIV was 39-years old; today, it is >70-years old. As life expectancy increases, PLWH are burdened with age-associated comorbidities. This paper reviews the interaction between aging and HIV and how it affects social, physical, and oral health issues. The shift in demographics presents new challenges for clinicians in how to identify, address, and manage these complex manifestations. This review summarizes how to approach HIV-related changes when providing care as a dental clinician.

Running For Political Office: These Dentists Did . . . How About You? Insights From Two Dentist-Legislators, W. Erick Rupprecht Dds, Lynn Aronoff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association encourages members to seek political office. Why? Having a member dentist hold an elected office improves the profession's visibility and builds relationships with other elected officials and community leaders who can support dentistry's goals. A dentist-legislator becomes a resource with their legislative colleagues when they debate health policy, regulations, and business initiatives. Having member dentists on the inside provides receptive ears when the Association advocates for the profession's needs and priorities.

To give insight into what public service by a dentist looks like, the Journal interviewed two colleagues who have made that commitment, State Representative Steven …

Use Of Mouthguards In Sports: Friend Or Foe When It Comes To Oral Health?, Jacob Daniel Gardner, Claudia Freitas

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Clinical And Radiographic Features Of Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome: A Case Report, G Subhas Babu, Devika S. Pillai, Shruthi Hegde, Padmaraj Hegde, Vidya Ajila

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome, also called as Gorlin Gotz syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the presence of multiple odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) of the jaw, basal cell carcinomas and skeletal anomalies. Presence of multiple OKCs is the first clinical manifestation in majority of the cases. Early diagnosis and treatment are of utmost importance in reducing the severity of this syndrome. We hereby report a rare case of Gorlin Goltz syndrome in a 28 years old female patient who presented with multiple cystic lesions in the jaws. Present case also highlights the clinical, radiographic and histopathologic features of …