Studies have shown that cross-contamination between patients can result from the backflow of bacteria dislodged from dental suction unit. A PubMed study revealed that the majority of the bacteria isolated from backflow samples were staphylococci, micrococci, and non-fermenting Gram-negative rods. Infectious agents such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus were also isolated from backflow fluids….
As clinicians, we use dental magnifying loupes to enable us to see better, but what about our patients? We try to explain what we see or try to show them in a hand mirror. But can they really see what we see? Usually the patient doesn’t see the same things we see; they may just…
The dental profession, however, says otherwise. Annual preventive X-rays, called bitewings, for healthy dental patients are not necessary. Of course, for adults whose dental health is not as ideal, listening to your professional’s advice makes a great deal of sense. Adults prone to cavities, for instance, should have bitewings done every year-and-a-half, states the ADA,…
Access to high quality images and a streamlined digital workflow improve the speed and accuracy of case diagnosis, producing more predictable outcomes for dentists and their patients. Compatibility Purchasing compatible components from one supplier ensures no integration issues and simplifies training and maintenance, ensuring there is no buck-passing between different suppliers. Where to start If…
PAIN OR SENSITIVITY If one of your teeth hurts when you chew, or if you have a constant toothache, you may have a cavity. A tooth has three layers: enamel, dentin, and pulp (where the roots and nerves are located). As the protective layer of enamel decays, the nerves in your tooth have one less…
In a study published in the journal of dental education in 1998, Fifty-two third-year students were randomly assigned to experimental (magnification) or control (no magnification) groups. Members of the experimental group used magnification in their daily work in the pediatric dentistry clinic. No significant differences between the groups’ preparations or evaluations of standard preparations were…
One of the key parts to an effective oral disease prevention plan is practicing daily oral hygiene to remove dental plaque. Both brushing and flossing are necessary for cleaning your teeth of this thin biofilm of bacteria and food particles most responsible for tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Once formed, calculus can adhere to…
An intra-oral camera is a tiny device approximately the same size as a large pen or toothbrush, with a camera lens at the end. It is covered with a protective plastic sheath that is changed for every patient to ensure the device is entirely hygienic and to prevent any risk of contamination. The video camera…
Debris Blow out the handpiece using compressed air to remove loose debris, cleaner, and lubricant before sterilization (a handpiece should never be run without a bur!). Air Pressure Excessive air pressure (exceeding 40 PSI) could cause damage to turbine bearings, reducing the performance of the turbine. When dental handpiece performance is reduced at 35 PSI…
1.Choose the correct magnification and working distance in order to ensure that you work in complete ergonomic harmony with your dental binocular loupes. 2.Look at an object with straight black lines. The most common signs of poor quality loupes are low resolution, chromatic aberration and spherical aberration. Resolution is defined as an optical system’s ability…