Tooth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that is relatively safe and can improve patients’ quality of life. James MacLaine describes the types of bleaching that can be carried out in the surgery and in the home, and their advantages and disadvantages
Good-quality radiographs are essential for accurate diagnoses. Noman Khawaja looks at assessing image quality, common problems and good practice, and Jillian Eastmond discusses the qualifications and training needed by those working in dental radiography
Interdental cleaning can remove plaque that toothbrushes cannot reach. Flossing is not the only method—other interproximal aids include tape, superfloss, interdental brushes, woodsticks and waterjets. Leanna Wynne explains how interdental aids work, and when and how they should be used
Periodontal disease is an infectious and inflammatory condition, with mounting evidence suggesting a bi-directional association with a range of systemic conditions, in particular diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Fotinos Panagakos reviews the evidence, the associations, and treatment options
The Information Governance toolkit is designed to draw together the GDC standards for dental professionals, the Records Management NHS Code of Practice and best practice principles for information governance. Glenys Bridges looks at the significance of this for dental nurses
This article will examine and summarise the evidence to support the advice that dental nurses should give their patients on toothbrushing. Key areas include: role of oral hygiene with regard to gum health and caries control, frequency and timing of brushing, use of fluoride toothpaste and rinsing be
Dental anxiety is a common problem and is associated with reduced quality of life and poorer oral health. In this article, Sharon Bennett describes the introduction of relaxation techniques at her practice as a tool for managing dental anxiety
Digital imaging is replacing film systems in dental practices. Martin Pybus introduces the world of digital imaging, explains the benefits and drawbacks of different systems, and outlines how changing from film to digital imaging affects practices and the work of the dental nurse
Pauline Smith, a dental implant nurse working in West Yorkshire, shares her views on working in implantology
The use of smokeless tobacco by members of the UK South East Asian community is a major risk factor for oral cancer and periodontitis. In this article, Graham Cope and Leena Sankla describe the different forms of smokeless tobacco, how if affects the oral cavity and what dental nurses should do to p
Abdelghany A, Nolan A, Freeman R (2011) Treating patients with dry mouth: general dental practitioners’ knowledge, attitudes and clinical management. Br Dent J211(10): E21
Barbara Simpson, a specialist dental nurse in Birmingham, shares her views on working with special care patients
Dental fear and phobia represent a major barrier to dental care. Dental nurses need to know how to address this common phobia. One successful strategy for treating dental anxiety, according to Carole Boyle and David Craig, is the use of conscious sedation techniques
