Surgery patients get oral hygiene kits to reduce pneumonia risk
August 28, 2019 -- In hopes of reducing the number of patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia, insurance company Aetna is sending oral hygiene care packages to certain patients before surgery. The company's chief dental officer highlighted the program's impact during a media presentation on August 26. Read More
Perio treatment mix helps lower glucose levels
August 8, 2019 -- It can be difficult to find an effective treatment regimen to help patients with both chronic periodontitis and type 2 diabetes. Researchers conducted a review and found that a combination of three treatments, including scaling and root planing, was most effective in reducing blood glucose levels. Read More
Are dentists obligated to treat unvaccinated kids?
August 5, 2019 -- Are dentists obligated to treat children without vaccinations? This is a question that the staff of The Dentists Insurance Company hears frequently. They explored the ethical and legal considerations in the August issue of the Journal of the California Dental Association. Read More
Cantel Medical to acquire Hu-Friedy for $725M
July 30, 2019 -- Cantel Medical has agreed to acquire instrument manufacturer Hu-Friedy for $725 million in cash and stock. Hu-Friedy will be combined with Crosstex, Cantel's dental division, when the transaction is completed. The transaction is expected to close before fall 2019. Read More
OSAP names new board of directors
July 15, 2019 -- The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) has announced the new members of its board of directors for 2019-2020. Read More
Sugary beverages linked to higher cancer risk
July 12, 2019 -- Drinking sugary beverages may be associated with an increased risk of cancer, according to the findings of a study published in BMJ on July 10. The evidence suggests sugary drinks, including 100% fruit juice, may contribute to the overall cancer rate. Read More
47 new genes linked to dental diseases
July 11, 2019 -- An international team of researchers has identified dozens of new genes associated with oral health and dental diseases. Their findings suggest many dental traits are heritable. Read More
Want to improve patient safety? Make a checklist
July 9, 2019 -- Checklists may be a practical and efficient way to improve patient safety in the dental office. Two safety experts explained why in the July issue of the Journal of the California Dental Association. Read More
New analysis shows long-term impact of HPV vaccination
June 27, 2019 -- Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programs can substantially reduce the number of infections in girls and women, researchers report in a new study published in Lancet. Their analysis suggests vaccination programs are working. Read More
Imaging study finds OSA patients at risk for heart disease
June 26, 2019 -- A new study offers another reason to screen your patients for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Patients with severe OSA have a greater risk for cardiovascular disease, according to research presented at this week's Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging annual meeting. Read More
