Dentistry Commons^™

Dental Care Trajectories Among Formerly Incarcerated Older Adults In The United States, Alexander Testa, Luis Mijares, Mateus Renno Santos, Vahed Maroufy, Dylan B Jackson, Rafael Samper-Ternent, Rahma Mungia, Ana C Neumann

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

A growing body of research has documented an association between prior incarceration and lower dental care use, yet the longitudinal impact of prior incarceration on dental care patterns over time among older adults remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate whether prior incarceration is associated with differing trajectories of dental care use among older adults in the United States. Data were drawn from the 2012-2020 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative longitudinal survey of older adults in the United States (n =  5,893). Group-based trajectory modeling was used to estimate dental care use patterns over …

Comparative Evaluation Of Three Endodontic Rotary File Systems In S-Shaped Root Canals: An In-Depth Analysis, Mudher Bahar

Theses and Dissertations

Objective: This study compares three endodontic file systems—XP‐3D Shaper⁺, EdgeFile X7 and WaveOne Gold in S‐shaped simulated canals in resin blocks. It aimed to quantify canals volumetric changes post‐instrumentation to guide clinical selection of a system that preserves tooth structure while efficiently shaping root canals.

Methods: Thirty S‐shaped canals in resin blocks were divided into three groups (n=10) for instrumentation with XP‐3D Shaper⁺, EdgeFile X7 or WaveOne Gold using the crown‐down technique and manufacturers recommended settings. A no‐treatment control provided a baseline for volumetric changes measured via CBCT scans analyzed with ITK‐SNAP. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s test …

Aadej Comm 11 1 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 inaugural issue of 2025 for The Communicator, the official publication of the American Association of Dental Editors & Journalists (AADEJ), sets a forward-looking tone for dental journalism. It prominently features crucial topics such as expanding circulation and archiving publications through ADA Commons, a comprehensive guide to copyright law for protecting journalistic work, and an in-depth analysis of Generative AI's impact and ethical considerations in dentistry. The issue also serves …

And The Word Of The Year Is…, Daniel L. Orr Ii, Dds, Ms, Ph.D., Jd, Md

AADEJ - The Communicator

This issue’s editorial explores three popular word-related websites for writers and editors: WordDaily, Word Smarts, and Dictionary.com. WordDaily offers quick definitions and origins without distractions. Word Smarts is described as a site for writers to delve into grammar and obscure punctuation, aiming to make learning fun, and it has previously published articles on topics like the Oxford comma. Dictionary.com, the site the author has used the longest, provides comprehensive content including definitions, pronunciations, etymologies, and Latin derivations, and also publishes a "Word of the Year". For 2024, Dictionary.com's Word of the Year is "demure," chosen due to a 1,200% increase …

Safeguarding Our Literature, Christopher J. Smiley

AADEJ - The Communicator

AADEJ President Chris Smiley draws a parallel between his personal experience of a well-intentioned but chaotic "stealth cleaning campaign" of his study by his wife, which left him unable to locate important documents, and the systematic scrubbing of freely available resources by federal agencies. He highlights concerns that politically driven directives are restricting information dissemination, citing examples from the CDC and USDA related to terms like "evidence-based," "science-based," and climate change, as well as vital health topics. The article quotes the British Medical Journal's strong condemnation of such actions, calling it "absurd" and "egregious" to erase medically relevant terminology. Smiley …

Copyright Law And The Importance Of Protecting Your Publication, Cameron A. Cameron A. Parks Esq.

AADEJ - The Communicator

This piece provides an overview of copyright law as a crucial form of intellectual property protection in journalism and publishing. It explains that copyright automatically arises when an original work is fixed in a tangible form. While registration with the U.S. Copyright Office is not required, it offers stronger protection, the ability to sue for infringement, and statutory damages. The article outlines copyright terms (life of author plus 70 years, or 95/120 years for works made for hire) and notes that facts alone are not copyrightable, but the unique text style, sequence, and original photographs can be protected. It emphasizes …

2024 Aadej-Adea Gies Foundation Editorial Award - Third Place: Gen Ai, Marisa Watanabe Dds, Ms, Ficd

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article is featured as a recipient of a 2024 AADEJ-ADEAGies Foundation Editorial Award. It explores the growing presence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in everyday life and its specific implications for dentistry. While AI shows great promise in improving diagnostic accuracy in dentistry, the author cautions that it is not without limitations and potential mistakes, such as overfitting, lack of contextual information, limited data diversity, false positives/negatives, inadequate training data, and sensitivity to image quality. The piece stresses that AI should augment, not replace, dental professionals, serving as a supportive aid rather than a definitive diagnostic tool. Key benefits …

Aadej Comm 11 2 2025

AADEJ - The Communicator

The Communicatoris 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 continues its focus on the evolving landscape of dental journalism, offering insightful perspectives for editors and communicators. A major highlight is the celebration of the over 50-year partnership between AADEJ and the International College of Dentists (ICD), emphasizing their joint efforts and the forthcoming shared Annual Meeting and awards reception in San Diego. The publication delves into the critical concept of professional and publication standards, …

Shakespeare’S Skull, Daniel L. Orr Ii, Dds, Ms, Ph.D., Jd, Md

AADEJ - The Communicator

This editorial discusses the long-standing rumor that William Shakespeare's skull was stolen from his grave. An anonymous story from 1879, initially dismissed as fiction, gained new attention in 2016 during the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death. A 2016 British Broadcasting Company (BBC) production documented findings from Staffordshire University's study using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) on Shakespeare's grave at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon. The archaeologist Kevin Colls from Staffordshire University concluded that Shakespeare's remains are indeed in the grave, "not counting the cranio-maxillofacial components," suggesting the skull may be missing. Despite these findings, the Vicar of Holy Trinity has stated that …

Aadej — Keeping Pace With New Challenges And Evolving Technologies, Mali Schantz-Feld Ma, Cde

AADEJ - The Communicator

Associate Editor Mali Schantz-Feld discusses the evolving responsibilities of dental journal editors, who must navigate not only dental topics but also broader non-dental trends and technological advancements. She highlights how new communication methods, such as teledentistry, social media, and online reviews, have become imperative for dental practices and, by extension, for dental publishing. Referencing Dr. J. Tim Wright's editorial on "Critical Challenges Facing Dentistry," Schantz-Feld notes that emerging technologies like AI, while challenging to adopt, also present opportunities to improve patient data analysis, diagnostics, and workflow efficiency. She asserts that AADEJ is dedicated to providing relevant information, continuing education (CE), …

Some Thoughts On Standards, Edward M. Feinberg Dmd

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article defines "standards" as benchmarks for quality and achievement, explaining their importance in assuring quality, enhancing safety, ensuring consistency, fostering innovation, and adapting to new needs. It emphasizes that dental professionals are expected to maintain high ethical conduct, skillful performance, and continuous education. The concept of the "Standard of Care" in dentistry is explored as a nuanced area, generally defined as the care and skill expected of a reasonably competent dentist in similar circumstances, which evolves with advancements. The article also addresses standards for dental publications, requiring originality, fair use of images, and honest data. The author shares observations …

2024 Aadej-Adea Gies Foundation Editorial Award- Second Place: The Human Role In Artificial Intelligence, Christopher J. Smiley

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article is featured as a recipient of a 2024 AADEJ-ADEA Gies Foundation Editorial Award. It addresses concerns about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in dentistry, particularly the warning from technology researchers regarding "profound risks to society and humanity" due to advanced AI systems. The author argues that the conversation should focus on AI's potential and, more critically, the essential role humans play in its successful adoption, rather than fears of machines taking over. A main risk identified is blind reliance on AI recommendations, which can lead to a loss of critical thinking, misdiagnosis, or inappropriate treatment decisions. Therefore, focused human oversight …

Aadej And Icd Usa Section — Together For Over 50 Years!, Elaine C. Wagner Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

With a new-found collaboration of our annual meetings in 2025, we celebrate more than 50-year partnership between the International College of Dentists (ICD) USA Section and the American Association of Dental Editors & Journalists (AADEJ). It highlights that both organizations are composed of individuals passionate about their respective missions: ICD Fellows focus on serving the underserved and improving global oral health, while AADEJ is dedicated to enhancing communication and elevating standards in dental journalism. The collaboration has stood the test of time, and for the first time, their Annual Meetings in 2025 will be held together at the Manchester Grand …

Michigan Dental Association Provides Leadership In Dental Journalism, David Foe

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article details the Michigan Dental Association (MDA)'s new funding program to support component editors in attending the American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists (AADEJ) annual conference. Recognizing the importance of quality dental journalism, the MDA offers up to $1,500 per attendee, covering significant costs for professional development. This initiative, a $15,000 investment for up to 10 attendees, aims to enhance member communications through skilled editors who create informative and engaging content. Benefits include practical training in copy editing, layout, e-communications, legal aspects, and writing, particularly for dentist-editors lacking formal journalism training. The program also fosters valuable networking opportunities, …

Reflections On The Detlef Moore Scholarship, Arjun Patel

AADEJ - The Communicator

The inaugural recipient of the Detlef Moore Scholarship provides a student perspective on the impact of the AADEJ annual conference. The Arjun Patel, a student at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, describes how the experience shifted his view of dental journalism from mere research reporting to a tool for fostering community and patient care. Key takeaways for the 2025 scholarship winner included the practical application of plain language in scientific writing and the ethical integration of AI tools for academic writing.  The inaugural recipient of the Detlef Moore Scholarship provides a student perspective on the impact of the …

A Practical Guide To Digital Publishing, Katherine Fiorillo Ma

AADEJ - The Communicator

In this feature, Katherine Fiorillo, Senior Editor, Michigan Alum, provides a strategic overview of the benefits and best practices of digital publishing in the dental field. While acknowledging the authority of print, the author demonstrates that digital platforms offer essential advantages, including immediate engagement, measurable analytics, and targeted content distribution. The guide outlines technical considerations for single articles and full digital issues, emphasizing the importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and web accessibility.

An Invite To The Adea Deans’ Conference, Denise Maihofer

AADEJ - The Communicator

In this report, the AADEJ executive director’s participation in the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Deans’ Conference, highlighting a growing partnership between the AADEJ and dental education leadership. Key sessions explored resilient leadership during periods of uncertainty and the profound impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on higher education writing and communication. The conference also addressed the shifting political landscape and federal policy and funding changes currently facing oral health education.

How Do You Make Your Chicken Marsala?, Cathy Hung Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

In her inaugural editorial as Editor-in-Chief of The Communicator, Dr. Hung utilizes a culinary metaphor to discuss the intersection of structure and creativity in dental writing. She posits that while grammar and spelling provide the necessary recipe, individual contributions and unique "twists" are what enrich the dental community. The piece invites readers to share their diverse perspectives to foster a culture of excellence and connection within the association.

Leading With Integrity; Writing With Purpose, Jasmine Shafagh Dmd

AADEJ - The Communicator

AADEJ President Dr. Jasmine Shafagh, reflects on AADEJ's 90-year legacy and its responsibility to uphold ethical standards in an era of rapid information exchange. Her message emphasizes the vital role of dental journalists in combating misinformation through accuracy, clarity, and integrity. By utilizing diverse digital and print mediums, the AADEJ aims to uplift the profession and provide members with the training necessary to navigate an increasingly complex communication landscape.

Formication With Destruction Of The Nasal Septum: A Rare Case Report, Michele White, Dwayne Evans, Gary Frey, Cleverick Cd Johnson, Ben F Warner

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Delusions of parasitosis are known by several names, one of which is formication. It is an uncommon psychiatric disorder listed in the DSM V under the classification of delusional disorders. Patients experience an established, incorrect belief that they have an infection of living organisms such as parasites. There are two types of delusions of parasitosis, primary and secondary. In the primary form, the symptom is the delusion of a parasitic infection without secondary cause. The secondary form includes this symptom as well as additional psychiatric disorder, drug abuse, or medical illness. Patients often seek consultation with dental providers for dental …