Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

News You Need: How Many Of These Ada/Mda Practice Resources Are You Using?

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This October, MDA offers updates and resources including support for human resources, ongoing education, and professional tools. Michigan was selected for the Medicaid Oral Health Workforce Implementation Learning Series to enhance access to care. The MDA launched HERM-E, an AI-powered digital assistant providing 24/7 access to resources and quick answers. Supporting chairside advocacy for community water fluoridation, the News reports that a national survey indicates 81% of Americans support or are neutral about water fluoridation. Applications are now open for the 2026 MDA LEAD Program, and nominations are being accepted for MDA awards and leadership positions. The News column further …

An Interfaith Dental Program Update, Colette Smiley

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

Initially formed in 2021 in response to the dental needs of Afghan refugees arriving in Metro Detroit, the Interfaith Dental Program now addresses the dental health needs of the refugee and unaccompanied refugee minor population throughout Michigan. Read on for an update!

Salivary Matrix Metalloproteinase-7, Human Beta-Defensin 1, And Mucin-4 As Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers In Periodontal Disease: A Review, Haider Mohammed Shaloom, Omar Husham Ali

Maaen Journal for Medical Sciences

Periodontal diseases are a group of chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory conditions affecting the periodontium, the supportive structures of the teeth. With severe forms affecting nearly 20% of the worldwide adult population, these diseases represent a significant global health challenge. Their impact extends beyond the oral cavity, as periodontitis is a recognized risk factor for systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. Characterized by the progressive destruction of tooth-supporting tissues, early diagnosis is crucial to prevent tooth loss. However, conventional diagnostic methods primarily quantify historical tissue damage rather than indicating current disease activity or predicting future progression. To overcome these limitations, …

Macomb Community College Dental Clinic Hosts First “Give Kids A Smile” Event

Journal of the Macomb Dental Society

This feature article covers Macomb Community College Dental Clinic's first Give Kids a Smile event -- a collaboration between students, faculty, and community members.

Community Health Centers And The Changing Landscape In Colorado, Ethan Kerns

Metro Denver Dental Society Articulator Magazine

This article examines the vital role Community Health Centers (CHCs) play in Colorado's oral health landscape, highlighting their delivery of comprehensive, integrated dental services to underserved and low-income populations. The author details how shifting state and federal policy and mounting financial challenges, threaten CHC’s sustainability, which could diminish access to essential dental care for hundreds of thousands and create ripple effects throughout the broader dental system.

J Mich Dent Assoc September 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists.

The September issue marks the return to a hybrid publishing schedule, with print issues published bimonthly in January, March, May, July, September, and November, and online-only digital issues in February, April, June, August, October, and December. This return to print follows a suspension in May due to association-wide financial issues, with the MDA Board of Trustees approving changes in the 2025 budget to …

Dean’S Report: Detroit Mercy Dental - Dental Schools — Safeguarding The Future Of Oral Health, Mert N. Aksu Dds, Jd, Mhsa, Cert. Dph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This report from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry highlights its mission to prepare students as clinicians, leaders, and advocates for public health and equitable access to care, emphasizing evidence-based practices and community service. It addresses critical public health measures like community water fluoridation and HPV vaccination, advocating for policies that protect oral health. The report notes concerns over proposed Michigan Medicaid dental program changes that could burden dental schools with increased uncompensated and emergency care. Initiatives to meet workforce needs include the new Detroit Mercy Dental Vermont Track and community-based education programs, which provided care to over …

The Effects Of Mouthguard And Physiotherapy On Bruxism: An Emg And Posture Angle Analysis—A Pilot Clinical Study, Nathalie Yared, Pascal El Braidy, Romy Slaiby, Amine El Zoghby

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: The purpose of this research was to determine whether a clinical trial to assess the impact of physiotherapy and mouthguards on bruxism was feasible. This included assessing participant recruitment, carrying out the interventions, and gathering data with appropriate techniques. The study focused on using posture angle analysis to evaluate changes in posture linked to bruxism and electromyography (EMG) to detect muscular activity. By exploring these elements, the study aimed to provide the groundwork for a more extensive, larger clinical trial.

Methods: Participants were recruited from the USJ dental clinics after their consultations. They were screened for bruxism using a …

Oral Hygiene Practices, Treatment Needs And Barriers To Dental Care Among Adolescents Attending Special Education Schools In Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Nur Hafizah Nor Wira, Noraida Mamat, Maryani Mohamed Rohani, Aimi Kamarudin, Sofia Anis

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the oral health practices, status, and treatment requirements of adolescents with special healthcare needs attending special education schools in Selangor, Malaysia. The adolescents’ parents perceived challenges to oral healthcare were also established. Methods: The current study employed a cross-sectional approach involving 131 adolescents with varying special needs. The participants were between 13 and 18 years old and fulfilled the pre-determined inclusion criteria. The participants’ parents supplied information on sociodemographic, oral health practices, and possible obstacles to dental care through an online survey form. The oral examination on decay, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT), simplified …

Positive And Negative Personality Traits In Relation To Oral Health-Related Quality Of Life And Satisfaction After Implant-Supported Prosthetic Treatment, Naimeh Hasheminejad, Maryam Farzadmoghadam, Mohammad Mohammadi, Amir Nekouei, Mohammadreza Rostamizadeh

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: This study aimed to determine patients’ positive and negative personality traits in relation to treatment satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) in patients who have received dental implant-supported prosthesis. Methods: This study was carried out on 135 adults above the age of 30 who had received reasonable implant treatment and prosthesis in the last 1–24 months in a private and a public dental office. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire, which was sent to patients via WhatsApp and email. Also, the Persian version of the Oral Health Impact Profile 14 and the Positive Affect Negative …

Perception Of Conventional Cigarettes And Vaping Among Smokers And Nonsmokers: A Cross-Sectional Study, Indrayadi Gunardi, Rahmi Amtha, Firstine Kelsi Hartanto, Niko Falatehan, Alyah Heriandi, Angelita Victoria Kurniawan, Najla Nadiah, Wiwiek Poedjiastoeti, Andrijanto Andrijanto, Elizabeth Fitriana Sari

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objectives: The growing popularity of vaping has introduced additional challenges, as potential health risks are still under investigation. Exploring differences in smoking perceptions between smokers and non-smokers could provide valuable insights into smoking behavior and inform effective intervention strategies. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the perceptions of smoking, specifically vaping and conventional cigarette use, among young adult smokers and non-smokers. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional design was employed, with 542 university students included through random sampling, using a questionnaire consisting of 8 items. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Rasch model analysis. Results: Of the subjects, 259 …

Comparison Of Pharyngeal Airway And Dentoskeletal Effects Of 2 And 4 Premolar Extraction Treatment In Adult Orthodontic Patients, Esra Genc, Ahmet Karaman

Journal of Dentistry Indonesia

Objective: This study aimed to compare pharyngeal airway and dentoskeletal effects of 2 and 4 premolar extraction treatments in adult patients separately for each gender. Methods: The study was conducted with 60 adults (26 males; 34 females) aged 18-35 years. Individuals were divided into 3 groups as non-extraction, 2-premolar extraction, and 4-premolar extraction. Pre-treatment (T0) and post-treatment (T1) dentoskeletal and pharyngeal airway measurements were performed on cephalometric radiographs. Results: A significant increase in nasopharyngeal airway (PNS-ad2) and anterior hyoid bone movement (CV3ai-H) was observed in the 4-extraction group; whereas in the 2-extraction group, inferior oropharyngeal airway (IAS) narrowing and hyoid …

Understanding And Predicting Flossing Behavior In A Rural Appalachian Community Using The Multi-Theory Model, Rahib K. Islam, Manoj Sharma, Amanda H. Wilkerson, Bradford Layman, Clyde Dunn, Shamima A. Somi, Ratnesh Sharma, Karen Gruszynski, Syed S. Quadri, Vinayak K. Nahar, Robert E. Davis

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Effective flossing is essential for preventing periodontal disease. However, in a rural Appalachian community, adherence to flossing routines remains low, contributing to significant oral health disparities. The purpose of this study was to conceptualize intention of initiation and sustenance of flossing behaviors using the multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change. A cross-sectional survey was administered to individuals recruited from a shopping mall in rural Appalachia. The MTM constructs were measured and data were analyzed using multiple linear regression models. Of the 228 participants, 55% did not floss daily. Behavioral confidence (β = 0.571, p < 0.001) was a significant predictor for the intention of initiation of flossing among non-daily flossers, while emotional transformation (β = 0.377, p = 0.836) significantly explained sustenance among non-daily flossers. For daily flossers, changes in the physical environment (β = 0.432, p = 0.003) significantly predicted the intention of initiation of flossing, whereas emotional transformation (β = 0.344, p = 0.008) and practice for change (β = 0.594, p < 0.001) significantly predicted sustenance of flossing behavior. The MTM appears to be a robust framework for understanding and predicting flossing behaviors in rural Appalachian populations. Interventions designed to enhance behavioral confidence, physical environment changes, emotional transformation, and practice for change could improve flossing adherence. Further research should explore these constructs to develop targeted public health strategies.

August 19, 2025 — Coalition Letter - Reauthorization Of The Health Resources And Services Administration (Hrsa) Title Vii Health Professions And Title Viii Nursing Workforce Development Programs, American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

Charting New Territory: Ai Applications In Dental Caries Detection From Panoramic Imaging., Man Hung, Daniel Yevseyevich, Milan Khazana, Connor Schwartz, Martin S. Lipsky

Institute on Aging Publications

Dental caries remains a public health concern, and early detection prevents its progression and complications. Panoramic radiographs are essential diagnostic tools, yet the interpretation of panoramic X-rays varies among practitioners. Artificial intelligence (AI) presents a promising approach to enhance diagnostic accuracy in detecting dental caries. This scoping review examines the current literature on the use of AI programs to analyze panoramic radiographs for the diagnosis of dental caries. This scoping review searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. The review included peer-reviewed, original research published in English that investigated the use …

Classification Of Dental Adverse Events Using Iterative Qualitative Analysis, Kiti Siriwatana, Sathirakorn Pongpanich

Journal of Health Research

Background: Effective incident reporting systems (IRS) are essential in dentistry for identifying and preventing adverse events (AEs), with standardized classifications ensuring consistent incident categorization. This study aimed to develop and validate a classification system for dental patient safety incidents based on a 5-year case study at the Dental Hospital at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand.

Methods: An iterative qualitative approach was used. A literature review explored existing accreditation standards and AE classification systems. Incident reports from 2018–2022 informed a draft classification system aligned with Thailand’s National Reporting and Learning System and accreditation standards. Reports from 2023 were used for validation. An expert …

Water Fluoridation: A Personal Perspective On The Effectiveness Of Community Water Fluoridation, William Chase Dds, Maom

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article offers Dr. William R. Chase's personal insights into community water fluoridation, emphasizing its effectiveness in preventing dental caries. It traces the discovery of fluoride's benefits back to Frederick McKay's 1901 observations and highlights the pivotal 1945 Grand Rapids Study, which demonstrated significant caries reduction, especially in younger age groups. Despite long-standing support from the American Dental Association, controversies regarding fluoride's safety persist, leading to recent state-level bans. Dr. Chase's experiences in countries without fluoridated water, where he observed severe decay and life-threatening cellulitis, underscore his belief in fluoride as a "miracle supplement" when properly utilized. The Michigan Dental …

J Mich Dent Assoc August 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The August issue marks the end of digital only publishing, as the MDA announced it will provide members a bimonthly print issue along with monthly digital distribution. This issue includes:

• A cover feature on the impact on the dental community of the recently adopted Big Beautiful Bill federal budget
• Mandibular Lingual Concavity Evaluation Using CBCT
• A reprinted clinical feature from New York on …

Mda Services: Endorsed Programs News

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Throughh MDA Services, the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) has announced several endorsed programs aimed at supporting dental practices across Michigan: Compass Dental Gas Service is now endorsed by the MDA for its expertise in installing, maintaining, and repairing dental gas systems. Members benefit from exclusive discounts and safety compliance support. MEDVA Virtual Staffing offers HIPAA-compliant, human virtual assistants to handle administrative tasks remotely. This service helps reduce labor costs and allows in-office staff to focus on patient care. MDA Health Plan sponsors are reminded to submit overdue eligibility verification documents, which are essential for compliance and 2026 renewal preparations. DBS …

The Back Page: Hospital General Dentistry: Needed Now More Than Ever, Tanaya K. Porter Dds, Craig C. Spangler Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This commentary emphasizes the increasing necessity of hospital-based general dentists. Historically, dentists faced challenges for privileges in hospitals, but today they are crucial, especially for neurodivergent adult patients and those with complex chronic illnesses requiring general anesthesia for dental care. Untreated oral issues can lead to severe infections, complicating acute medical conditions and threatening the success of life-saving surgeries like organ transplants. Hospital dentists provide vital pre-surgical evaluation, diagnosis, and follow-up care to prevent dental complications and improve patient quality of life post-surgery. Despite their critical role, the article highlights a concerning trend of fewer hospitals having general dentists on …