Independent Dental Hygienist
In the province of Ontario, people wishing to seek care with a Dental Hygienist working independently of a dentist have had the option to do so since 2007. Dental hygiene is a regulated profession governed by the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario. You have the right to choose your Dental Hygienist just the same as you […]
What the heck is Interim Stabilization Therapy…?
Interim Stabilization Therapy (IST) is a temporary restorative procedure which arrests dental decay through a therapeutic release of fluoride, leading to remineralization of the interface layer between the dentin and the temporary cement, thereby stabilizing the tooth structure until a permanent restoration can be placed. The primary reasons that a dental hygienist would consider the […]
The social determinants of health
The social determinants of health are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. They are the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age, and the wider set of forces and systems shaping the conditions of daily life. In Canada, accessing vital oral healthcare services can be problematic for millions, including those […]
The Oral Microbiome: Impacts on Oral and Systemic Health
The oral microbiome is the 2nd largest microbial community in the human body after the human gut. There are 700 different species that inhabit various aspects of the oral cavity. The oral microbiome is influenced by several factors including host genetics, lifestyle, oral hygiene, Ph, temperature, nutrients, host defenses (innate and adaptive immune response), and […]
The Dental Hygienist as a Primary Oral Healthcare Provider.
It is a common misconception that the Dental Hygienist just “cleans teeth”. The removal of calculus, plaque and biofilm are vital components to maintaining a healthy oral environment but are only a part of the bigger picture of the care your Dental Hygienist will provide. Regular preventative maintenance combined with daily oral hygiene is essential […]
Silver Diamine Fluoride….
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid Used on cavities to help stop tooth decay and prevent the damaging progression of the disease. It can be used in conjunction with other therapies and also can help relieve sensitivity. Treatment with SDF does not eliminate the need for dental fillings or crowns to Repair function or […]
Oral probiotics: Keeping a healthy balance
Probiotics are healthy bacteria. They’re mostly known for their impact on digestive health. Research is starting to show that they can also help to keep your mouth healthy. There are more than 700 bacterial species in the mouth. When the balance among oral bacteria is disrupted due to inadequate oral hygiene, stress and/or poor diet, […]
Mouth Care and Cancer
More than one-third of all cancer patients develop complications that affect the mouth. If your mouth is not as healthy as possible prior to your cancer treatment, you may be more susceptible to oral complications. Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, can weaken your immune system. Radiation therapy, especially in the area of the head and neck, […]
Oral Cancer…What you really need to know!
Oral cancer screening may be the best way to detect oral cancer early and dental hygienists have an important role. Screening for oral cancer must be part of every dental hygiene appointment. Detecting the disease in the early stages is key to the survival rate. Thousands of new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed in […]
Low Level Laser Therapy
Living DNA is both a receiver and transmitter of coherent light. Specific photoreceptors in the mitochondria of the cell are able to absorb monochromatic light in the red and infra red spectrum. (Similar to photosynthesis in plants) Photobiomodulation Therapy also known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a form of therapy that applies low-level […]