Mauriello, S. M. (2016). Prevent technique errors. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 14(6), 24-28.

Proper placement for both sensors and collimators is very important when exposing

films. A few of the common errors include: cone cuts, improper sensor placement, and improper

collimator alignment. It is important to remember when exposing a premolar bitewing film to

have the distal of the canine in the image, with open contacts between the first and second

premolars. For the molar bitewing film, it is important to have open contacts between the first

and second molars. This article also discusses the importance of vertical placement so that you

do not see more of the maxillary or more of the mandible in the film. In practice, it is very

important to use the rings for alignment. Technique is very important when exposing these films,

and being able to identify the error is key to prevent further exposure for patients. Another

helpful hint provided in this article was to place the sensor more in the middle of the arch in the

patient’s mouth if you are finding it difficult to get the distal of the canine in the film of a patient

with a small mouth. This also minimizes the likelihood of the patient to shift the film in their

mouth after placement due to discomfort, often found when the sensor is touching the alveolar

ridge. As for gagging, it is encouraged to have the patient breath through their nose and attempt

to think about something else.

I found this article to be helpful as I am learning more about placement of an X-ray

sensor in radiography this semester. I like the suggestion of sensor placement for a patient with a

small mouth. However, much of this article should be known for those working in a dental

profession. I agree that placement is important and a key factor is identifying what is wrong in a

film to fix it for next time. Making a “good” film is one of those things that you get better and

better at with more practice. Each patient may presents something different to learn from.
Kwon, S. R., & Li, Y. (2012). Tooth whitening safety. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. 10(5), 30,

32, 34, 39.

This article discussed the safety of tooth whitening. The article mentioned the different

types of whitening agents available (in-office, professionally dispensed, home use, office or store

purchased) but did not go into detail on explaining each. The primary active ingredients in

whitening products are hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These products were

examined for morphological effect in the enamel, mineral loss, and microhardness. There was

found to be a lot of variation in the studies examined, however, it was discovered that when used

in a neutral form (not acidic) and used as recommended, these products did not “negatively effect

enamel.” It was also stated that, “almost every procedure has some effect on enamel.” It is

encouraged to use some form of remineralization strategy after whitening, such as fluoride or

calcium phosphate, for example.

I found this article to be both informative and interesting. I have wondered the effects of

whitening on patient’s teeth. I am sure this article assumes that patients do not take the whitening

to an extreme and use whitening products more often than needed or suggested. These studies

also seem difficult to perform as the environment of the oral cavity is difficult to replicate and

many other factors may play a role. It makes sense that a neutral whitening agent would be

encouraged over an acidic one as acids can have such an impact on enamel. I would like to know

what type of product is “better” than another for patient use. Although that may depend on what

the patient is looking for, quick in office, or more financially friendly at home application. With

the high demand of whitening, I am glad to discover it isn’t “too” damaging. Esthetics are also

commonly asked about in the dental field so it is good to stay up on to date on the information.
Vogell, S. L. (2017). Supporting oral health in pregnancy. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 15(2),

46-49.

Oral health is important to everyone during all times of their lives, but it is especially

important for those that are pregnant. When a woman is pregnant, she is much more likely to

“change her ways” and make adjustments in her life. While pregnant, to benefit her developing

child, however, this is a great time to educate the patient for changes that she may continue after

pregnancy. A few examples are a health diet, stopping smoking, and receiving dental care.

Dental care and treatment have been found to be both safe and effective during pregnancy.

Women may experience an increase in hormones that can induce a higher likelihood of

gingivitis, granulomas, poor periodontal health, erosion, and more. It is important for these

women to receive oral examinations, treatment, and education on the changes that may occur in

their mouths in order to best maintain health for mother and baby. Seeking dental care may also

reduce the risk of systemic diseases.

This article has a lot of beneficial information. Pregnancy is very common to “run into,”

as a dental hygienist so it is important to stay up to date on the latest care recommendations. This

article states that it is safe for women to receive local anesthetics during pregnancy, radiographs

(with the use of a lead apron and thyroid collar), selective antibiotics, and more. I agree with this

article that during pregnancy women are much more likely to make positive adjustments to their

health so it is an important time for education. Also, if mothers treat their caries before baby is

born they are likely to lower their strep mutan count, hopefully, less likely to share with baby.

The article also states that pregnancy may make treatment difficult. The mother needs to be

comfortable; lying back too far may induce blood pressure issues.