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Tseng W, Pleasants E, Ivey SL, Sokal-Gutierrez K, Kumar J, Hoeft KS, Horowitz AM, Ramos-Gomez F, Sodhi M, Liu J, Neuhauser L. Barriers and Facilitators to Promoting Oral Health Literacy and Patient Communication among Dental Providers in California. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 18:ijerph18010216. [PMID: 33396682 PMCID: PMC7795206 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Studies demonstrate that dental providers value effective provider-patient communication but use few recommended communication techniques. This study explored perspectives of California dental providers and oral health literacy experts in the United States on use of communication techniques. We conducted a qualitative key informant interview study with 50 participants between November 2019 and March 2020, including 44 dental providers (dentists, hygienists, and assistants) in public or private practice in California and 6 oral health literacy (OHL) experts. We undertook thematic analysis of interview transcripts and descriptive statistics about interviewees from pre-surveys. Dental providers reported frequently speaking slowly, and using simple language and models/radiographs to communicate with patients, while infrequently using interpretation/translation, illustrations, teach-back, or motivational interviewing. Providers reported using only 6 of the 18 American Medical Association's (AMA) recommended communication techniques and only 3 of the 7 AMA's basic communication techniques. A majority of providers indicated using one of five oral health assessment and educational strategies. Key barriers to effective communication included limited time, financial incentives promoting treatment over prevention, lack of OHL training, limited plain-language patient education materials, and patients with low OHL knowledge. Dental organizations should prioritize supporting dental providers in effective patient communication practices. Standardizing OHL continuing education, creating an evidence-based OHL toolkit for dental teams, ensuring accessible interpretation/translation services, and incentivizing dental providers to deliver education could improve oral health literacy and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston Tseng
- Health Research for Action, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (E.P.); (S.L.I.); (K.S.-G.); (J.L.); (L.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-925-699-4016
| | - Elizabeth Pleasants
- Health Research for Action, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (E.P.); (S.L.I.); (K.S.-G.); (J.L.); (L.N.)
| | - Susan L. Ivey
- Health Research for Action, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (E.P.); (S.L.I.); (K.S.-G.); (J.L.); (L.N.)
| | - Karen Sokal-Gutierrez
- Health Research for Action, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (E.P.); (S.L.I.); (K.S.-G.); (J.L.); (L.N.)
| | - Jayanth Kumar
- Office of Oral Health, California Department of Public Health, Sacramento, CA 95899, USA;
| | - Kristin S. Hoeft
- Department of Preventive & Restorative Dental Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
| | - Alice M. Horowitz
- Department of Behavioral Health & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA;
| | - Francisco Ramos-Gomez
- Division of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
| | - Miku Sodhi
- Shasta Cascade Health Centers, McCloud, CA 96057, USA;
| | - Jessica Liu
- Health Research for Action, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (E.P.); (S.L.I.); (K.S.-G.); (J.L.); (L.N.)
| | - Linda Neuhauser
- Health Research for Action, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; (E.P.); (S.L.I.); (K.S.-G.); (J.L.); (L.N.)
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to identify national dental education research (DER) priorities for the next 3-5 years and to identify barriers and enablers to DER. SETTING Scotland. PARTICIPANTS In this two-stage online questionnaire study, we collected data with multiple dental professions (eg, dentistry, dental nursing and dental hygiene) and stakeholder groups (eg, learners, clinicians, educators, managers, researchers and academics). Eighty-five participants completed the Stage 1 qualitative questionnaire and 649 participants the Stage 2 quantitative questionnaire. RESULTS Eight themes were identified at Stage 1. Of the 24 DER priorities identified, the top three were: role of assessments in identifying competence; undergraduate curriculum prepares for practice and promoting teamwork. Following exploratory factor analysis, the 24 items loaded onto four factors: teamwork and professionalism, measuring and enhancing performance, dental workforce issues and curriculum integration and innovation. Barriers and enablers existed at multiple levels: individual, interpersonal, institutional structures and cultures and technology. CONCLUSIONS This priority setting exercise provides a necessary first step to developing a national DER strategy capturing multiple perspectives. Promoting DER requires improved resourcing alongside efforts to overcome peer stigma and lack of valuing and motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rola Ajjawi
- Centre for Assessment in Research and Digital Learning, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen L Barton
- Division of Food and Drink, School of Science, Engineering & Technology, Abertay University, Dundee, UK
| | - Ashley A Dennis
- Centre for Medical Education, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Charlotte E Rees
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Ramoni RB, Walji MF, Kim S, Tokede O, McClellan L, Simmons K, Skourtes E, Yansane A, White JM, Kalenderian E. Attitudes toward and beliefs about the use of a dental diagnostic terminology: A survey of dental care providers in a dental practice. J Am Dent Assoc 2017; 146:390-7. [PMID: 26025826 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attitudes and views are critical to the adoption of innovation. Although there have been broadening calls for a standardized dental diagnostic terminology, little is known about the views of private practice dental team members regarding the adoption of such a terminology. METHODS The authors developed a survey by using validated questions identified through literature review. Domain experts' input allowed for further modifications. The authors administered the final survey electronically to 814 team members at a multioffice practice based in the US Pacific Northwest. RESULTS Response proportion was 92%. The survey had excellent reliability (Cronbach α coefficient = 0.87). Results suggested that participants showed, in general, positive attitudes and beliefs about using a standardized diagnostic terminology in their practices. Additional written comments by participants highlighted the potential for improved communication with use of the terminology. CONCLUSIONS Dental care providers and staff in 1 multioffice practice showed positive attitudes about the use of a diagnostic terminology; specifically, they believed it would improve communication between the dentist and patient, as well as among providers, while expressing some concerns about whether using standardized dental diagnostic terms helps clinicians to deliver better dental care. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS As the dental profession is advancing toward the use of standardized diagnostic terminology, successful implementation will require that dental team leaders prepare their teams by gauging their attitude about the use of such a terminology.
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Widström E, Linden J, Tiira H, Seppälä TT, Ekqvist M. Treatment provided in the Public Dental Service in Finland in 2009. Community Dent Health 2015; 32:60-64. [PMID: 26263595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyse treatment measures provided in the Public Dental Service (PDS) and to discuss the therapy given against treatment needs as expressed in the national clinical epidemiological studies. METHODS In 2009, the Chief Dentists of the PDS units collected data from their local registers on patients and treatment provided. Data were obtained from 166 PDS units (86%). Treatment patterns were compared between age groups, provider groups and geographical areas using chi-square tests. RESULTS Altogether 8.9 million treatments were provided for 1.7 million patients. Examinations, restorative treatment and anaesthesia accounted for 61.3% of all treatments. Preventive measures (8.4%) and periodontal treatment (6.3%) were small proportions of the total. Prosthetic treatment was uncommon (0.5%). Working age adults received half of all treatments (53.2%), the young a third (36.4%) and the elderly 10.4%. Dental hygienists or dental assistants provided 29.7% of all treatment for children and adolescents, 11.1% for adults and 14.1% for the elderly. CONCLUSION Relatively healthy children had plenty of examinations and preventive measures, and adults had mostly restorative care when their needs were more periodontal and prosthetic care, indicating that treatment given was not fully in line with needs.
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Yamalik N, Ensaldo-Carrasco E, Cavalle E, Kell K. Oral health workforce planning part 2: figures, determinants and trends in a sample of World Dental Federation member countries. Int Dent J 2014; 64:117-126. [PMID: 24863646 PMCID: PMC9376428 DOI: 10.1111/idj.12117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM A range of factors needs to be taken into account for an ideal oral health workforce plan. The figures related to dentists, specialists, auxiliaries, practice patterns, undergraduate and continuing dental education, laws/regulations, the attitudes of oral health-care providers and the general trends affecting the practice patterns, work conditions and preferences of oral health-care providers are among such determinants. Thus, the aim of the present study was to gather such information from a sample of World Dental Federation (FDI) member countries with different characteristics. METHODS A cross-sectional survey study was carried out among a sample of FDI member countries between March 2, 2012 and March 27, 2012. A questionnaire was developed addressing some main determinants of oral health workforce, such as its structure, involvement of the public/private sector to provide oral health-care services, specialty services, dental schools, trends in workforce and compliance with oral health needs, and a descriptive analysis was performed. The countries were classified as developed and developing countries and Mann-Whitney U-tests and chi-square tests were used to identify potential significant differences (P > 0.05) between developed and developing countries. All data were processed in SPSS v.19. RESULTS In the18 questionnaires processed, the median number of dentists (P = 0.005), dental practices (P = 0.002), hygienists (P = 0.005), technicians (P = 0.013) and graduates per year (P = 0.037) was higher in developed countries. Only 12.5% of developed and 22.2% of developing countries reported having optimal number of graduates per year. It was noted that 66.7% of developing countries had more regions lacking enough dentists to meet the demand (P = 0.050) and 77.8% lacked the necessary specialist care (P = 0.015). Although developing countries reported mostly an oversupply of dentists, regardless of the level of development most countries did not report an oversupply of specialists. Most developed countries did not feel that their regulations (87.5%) complied with the needs and demands of the population and most developing countries did not feel that their undergraduate dental education (62.5%) complied. Migrating to other countries was a trend seen in developing countries, while, despite increased numbers of dentists, underserved areas and communities were reported. DISCUSSION The cross-sectional survey study suggests that figures related to optimum or ideal oral health workforce and fair distribution of the available workforce does not seem to be achieved in many parts of the world. Further attention also needs to be dedicated to general trends that have the capacity to affect future oral health workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nermin Yamalik
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Hacettepe, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Eduardo Ensaldo-Carrasco
- Centre for Population Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Edoardo Cavalle
- Public Health Committee, World Dental Federation (FDI), Private practice, Monza, Italy
| | - Kathyrn Kell
- World Dental Federation (FDI), Private Practice, Davenport, IA, USA
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JAZAIRY YHAL, HALAWANY HS, HUSSAINAN NAL, MAFLEHI NAL, ABRAHAM NB, JACOB V. Factors affecting job satisfaction and their correlation with educational standards among dental assistants. Ind Health 2014; 52:324-333. [PMID: 24747371 PMCID: PMC4243018 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2014-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A disparity exists in the educational qualifications of dental assistants working in various public and private institutions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of professional and personal characteristics on job satisfaction among dental assistants. A cross-sectional survey was performed among dental assistants using a 24-item self-administered questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between overall job satisfaction and other variables. The overall response rate was 72.1%. Factor analysis suggested that five underlying factors were related to job satisfaction. The mean score for overall job satisfaction was 3.86 (satisfied) out of 5. Among the work environment factors, the highest mean score, 4.26 (satisfied), was obtained for quality of service, and the lowest mean score, 2.78 (neutral), was obtained for the perception of income. The income and general prospects of the profession was significantly associated with overall job satisfaction. This study suggests that for dental assistants, professional and personal life, quality of service, perception of income and prestige and self-respect are important factors for job satisfaction. Despite differences in professional formation standards, in general, the study participants were considerably satisfied with their jobs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousra H. AL JAZAIRY
- Dental Caries Research Chair, College of Dentistry, King Saud
University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Restorative Dental Sciences, College of
Dentistry, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Suliman HALAWANY
- Dental Caries Research Chair, College of Dentistry, King Saud
University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Periodontics and Community Dentistry, College
of Dentistry, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nawaf AL HUSSAINAN
- Dental Caries Research Chair, College of Dentistry, King Saud
University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Dental Health Department, Prince Sultan Military Medical
City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nassr AL MAFLEHI
- Dental Caries Research Chair, College of Dentistry, King Saud
University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Periodontics and Community Dentistry, College
of Dentistry, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nimmi Biju ABRAHAM
- Dental Caries Research Chair, College of Dentistry, King Saud
University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Vimal JACOB
- Dental Caries Research Chair, College of Dentistry, King Saud
University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Osawa G, Nakaya H, Mealey BL, Kalkwarf K, Cochran DL. Specialty education in periodontics in Japan and the United States: comparison of programs at Nippon Dental University Hospital and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. J Dent Educ 2014; 78:481-495. [PMID: 24609350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Japan has institutions that train qualified postdoctoral students in the field of periodontics; however, Japan does not have comprehensive advanced periodontal programs and national standards for these specialty programs. To help Japanese programs move toward global standards in this area, this study was designed to describe overall differences in periodontics specialty education in Japan and the United States and to compare periodontics faculty members and residents' characteristics and attitudes in two specific programs, one in each country. Periodontal faculty members and residents at Nippon Dental University (NDU) and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) Dental School participated in the survey study: four faculty members and nine residents at NDU; seven faculty members and thirteen residents at UTHSCSA. Demographic data were collected as well as respondents' attitudes toward and assessment of their programs. The results showed many differences in curriculum structure and clinical performance. In contrast to the UTHSCSA respondents, for example, the residents and faculty members at NDU reported that they did not have enough subject matter and time to learn clinical science. Although the residents at NDU reported seeing more total patients in one month than those at UTHSCSA, they were taught fewer varieties of periodontal treatments. To provide high-quality and consistent education for periodontal residents, Japan needs to establish a set of standards that will have positive consequences for those in Japan who need periodontal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginko Osawa
- Nippon Dental University Hospital, Division of General Dentistry, 2-3-16 Fujimi Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan 102-8158;
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Noble R. Expanding the scope of practice--should dental nurses be permitted to administer local analgesia? SAAD Dig 2014; 30:29-31. [PMID: 24624521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Dumbing down the profession or meeting the need of more patients by the optimum management of resources? Unequivocally, patient safety and non-maleficence are central to this issue. Restrictions must be imposed to ensure this. Without doubt, continuing competence would have to be demonstrated by the registrant and they would only administer local analgesia after a written prescription by a dentist. Restrictions to infiltration analgesia would also seem prudent. if all involved, including patient representatives, consider this of merit, several issues would have to be resolved such as who wouldnd be responsible for training, the content of the programme a funding for training. This is fundamental for the conception and implementation of such a qualification. Recently, the issue of direct access has been opened. The profession has changed in recent years with more focus being placed on dentists to meet the need of patients burdened by dental disease, particularly the disenfranchised, by utilising the whole dental team. Notwithstanding this and it may seem counter intuitive, but if this role was extended to dental nurses, it may be most adopted in services where time is not so important such as the salaried and other secondary services.
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Health of the dental profession is shared concern. N Y State Dent J 2013; 79:4-6. [PMID: 24600756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
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Mamoun JS, Javaid M. Triple tray crown and bridge procedures: A guide to how dental assistants can assist the dentist: Part 2. Dent Assist 2013; 82:32, 34-6, 38-9 passim. [PMID: 24003607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
This is the second part of a two-part article, and explains the techniques of making provisional restorations, such as the shell technique, the bulk technique for making a temporary restoration from scratch, or the basic technique of using the mold of the unprepared abutment in the preoperative impression, to form the temporary restoration.
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Lam HTC, O'Toole TG, Arola PE, Kashner TM, Chang BK. Factors associated with the satisfaction of millennial generation dental residents. J Dent Educ 2012; 76:1416-1426. [PMID: 23144476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Data from the 2010 Learners' Perceptions Survey (LPS) administered through the Office of Academic Affiliations, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) were analyzed to identify factors associated with dental residents' satisfaction with the VA as a clinical training environment. Satisfaction scores were linked to clinic workloads, dental procedure complexity levels, staffing patterns, and facility infrastructure data to explore conditions that may improve residents' satisfaction. Findings supported the construct validity of the LPS survey data and underscored the importance of maintaining optimal ratios of attending dentists, dental assistants, and administrative staff to residents so that each trainee will have opportunities to perform an adequate level of dental workload. As programs strive to improve the quality of graduate dental education, findings from this study are vital for setting curriculum design guidelines and for providing infrastructure support for dental resident education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwai-Tai C Lam
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Room 540E, 1717 H Street, NE, Washington, DC 20006, USA.
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Dunning DG, Durham TM, McDonough D. Performance feedback as viewed by dental assistants: part I. Dent Assist 2012; 81:6-11. [PMID: 23256308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David G Dunning
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, USA
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Solomon ES. The past and future evolution of the dental workforce team. J Dent Educ 2012; 76:1028-1035. [PMID: 22855588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This article looks at changes in the number and mix of providers in the dental workforce over the past sixty years. First, enrollment trends in dental education programs are investigated. These educational programs feed directly into the dental workforce. Then, the changes in the dental workforce are examined. The focus of this investigation is the composition of the dental workforce and how the components of the workforce have changed over time. The forces that are responsible for these changes in the workforce are explored next. Finally, the possibility for workforce changes in the future is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S Solomon
- Baylor College of Dentistry, Texas A&M Health Science Center, 3302 Gaston Ave., Room 528, Dallas, TX 75246, USA.
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Shaffer SW, Moore R, Foo S, Henry N, Moore JH, Greathouse DG. Clinical and electrodiagnostic abnormalities of the median nerve in US Army Dental Assistants at the onset of training. US Army Med Dep J 2012:72-81. [PMID: 22815168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS Dental personnel including dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants have been reported as having a high prevalence of upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorders, including carpal tunnel syndrome. Previous research has not involved dental assistant students at the onset of dental training. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the presence of median and ulnar neuropathies in US Army dental assistants at the onset of their training. NUMBER OF SUBJECTS Fifty-five US Army Soldiers (28 female, 27 male) enrolled in the Dental Assistant (68E) course, volunteered to participate in the study. The mean age of the dental assistant students was 24±7.2 years (range 18-41 years). There were 45 right handed dental assistant students, and the mean length of time in the Army prior to dental training was 27 months (range 3-180 months). MATERIALS/METHODS Subjects were evaluated during the first week of their 10-week dental assistant course. Subjects completed a history form, were interviewed, and underwent a physical examination. Electrophysiological status of the median and ulnar nerves of both upper extremities was obtained by performing motor and sensory nerve conduction studies. Descriptive statistics for subject demographics and nerve conduction study variables were calculated. RESULTS Six of the 55 subjects (11%) presented with abnormal electrophysiologic values suggestive of median mononeuropathy at or distal to the wrist. Five of the subjects had abnormal electrophysiologic values in both hands. Five of these 6 subjects had clinical examination findings consistent with the electrophysiological findings. The ulnar nerve electrophysiologic assessment was normal in all subjects sampled. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of median mononeuropathies in this sample of Army dental assistants at the onset of training is greater than 5% prevalence reported in previous healthy populations and is less than 26% prevalence in previous research examining Army dental assistants with dental work experience. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Median neuropathy at or distal to the wrist has been reported in dental personnel including dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants, and is also prevalent in this sample of dental assistants at the onset of training. Further long-term prospective research involving the impact of dental practice and techniques for reducing upper extremity injuries in dental professionals appears to be warranted.
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White S. Customizing your career and restorations. Dent Today 2011; 30:120-123. [PMID: 21980727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
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Shulman ER, Howard WG, Sharps G, Wearden S. The impact of a continuing education oral health program on providing services for young children by dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants. J Dent Hyg 2011; 85:220-228. [PMID: 21888779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a 4 hour continuing education (CE) program on the oral health knowledge and behaviors of dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants in providing oral health services to young children in West Virginia general dental practices. METHODS A free CE program was provided for 92 general dentists, 123 dental hygienists and 37 dental assistants (n=252) at 4 sites across West Virginia. Participants completed a pre- and post-test on topics including the timing of the first dental exam, fluorides, xylitol, Alternative Restorative Technique (ART) and their practice pattern of caring for children under 3 years old. A 6 month follow-up questionnaire was mailed to participants to assess outcomes. RESULTS Participants showed a 22% increase in knowledge from the pre-test to the post-test (p<0.001) for all questions except for ART, which showed no change. The majority of dentists and hygienists (89%) increased their comfort in providing services for children under 3 years old. Participants (80%) stated they would increase the number of children under 3 years old they examine, yet 6 months after the program only 42% responded affirmatively (p<0.001). At the time of the program, 62% reported that they currently examine children at 1 year of age, and there was no significant change 6 months later. While 54% responded that they would contact their local physicians about early oral health care, only 27% followed through. CONCLUSION This program significantly increased the participants' knowledge and comfort level for providing infant and toddler oral health care. However, it did not motivate most to alter their practice behaviors to conform to national best practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot R Shulman
- Division of Pediatric Dentistry, West Virginia University School of Dentistry, Morgantown, USA
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Hambach R, Acke S, François G, Alen Y, Droste J, van Sprundel M. [Work related health risks among dentist's assistants in Flanders, Belgium]. Ned Tijdschr Tandheelkd 2011; 118:371-375. [PMID: 21882506 DOI: 10.5177/ntvt.2011.07/08.11102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this research project was to learn more about work-related health risks among dental assistants in Flanders, Belgium. Forty-seven dental assistants completed an extensive questionnaire concerning ionized radiation, protection against infection and exposure to chemicals such as mercury, disinfectants and acrylates. Collective and personal means of protection, musculoskeletal disorders and work-related stress were also evaluated. Pain in the lower back, neck pain and shoulder pain were reported by, respectively, 15%, 17% and 22% of the respondents. Eczema resulting from skin irritation or contact-allergy was reported by 13%. Twenty-three percent of the assistants did not consistently make use ofa radiation badge; 80% wore a mouth mask and 33% wore protective glasses; and 82% was vaccinated against hepatitis B. Almost 10% reported verbal or physical aggression by patients. The mean stress score was 3.95 on a scale from 0 to 10. The results may contribute to the formulation of a number of recommendations for the improvement of the health of dental assistants.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hambach
- Externe Dienst voor Preventie en Bescherming op het Werk van Mensura, Antwerpen, België.
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Alavian SM, Mahboobi N. Hepatitis B infection in dentistry setting needs more attention. Med Princ Pract 2011; 20:491-2. [PMID: 21757945 DOI: 10.1159/000328427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2010] [Accepted: 12/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Roulet JF. Reasonable adhesion. J Adhes Dent 2010; 12:255. [PMID: 20847996 DOI: 10.3290/j.jad.a19418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Dajpratham P, Ploypetch T, Kiattavorncharoen S, Boonsiriseth K. Prevalence and associated factors of musculoskeletal pain among the dental personnel in a dental school. J Med Assoc Thai 2010; 93:714-721. [PMID: 20572377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the prevalence and associated factors of musculoskeletal (MS) pain among the dental personnel. In addition, impacts and treatment of MS pain were reported. MATERIAL AND METHOD Random sampling of 390 participants from the name lists of dental personnel working in each department. Self-administered questionnaires were equally distributed to three groups of dental personnel namely clinical instructors, postgraduate students, and dental assistants. The present study was conducted as a survey in the Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok between December 2008 and January 2009. RESULTS Three hundred and ninety questionnaires were delivered and 164 questionnaires were returned (response rate 42.5%). The participants with MS pain were 32 clinical instructors (20.3%), 52 postgraduate students (32.9%), and 74 dental assistants (46.8%). Their mean age was 33.0 +/- 9.1 years old. The MS pain found respectively was shoulder pain 72.2% (n = 114), neckpain 70.3% (n = 111), and low backpain 50.6% (n = 80). The participants with shoulder and neckpain were combined and defined as cervicobrachial pain. The associated factor of cervicobrachial pain was working status. Being a clinical instructor and postgraduate student were associated with cervicobrachial pain with OR being 4.7 [1.3, 7.1] and 4.6 [1.6, 13.4], respectively. The impacts of MS pain among the dental personnel included usage of pain relieving medication (34.8%), seeking medical evaluation (32.3%), reduction in working hours (27.2%), difficulty sleeping (22.8%), and work absence (10.8%), respectively. The treatments of MS pain utilized to alleviate those impacts were Thai traditional massage (51.9%), medication (28.5%), physical therapy (15.8%), acupuncture (7.6%), and alternative medicine (4.4%), respectively. CONCLUSION Cervicobrachial pain was the most prevalent MS pain among the dental personnel and working status was associated with their MS pain problems. The impact of MS pain was predominantly usage of pain relieving medication. Thai traditional massage was the most utilized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyapat Dajpratham
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Hecksher AS, Luiz RR, Costa AJL, Moraes NM. Reliability analysis of visual examinations carried out by school-teachers and a dental assistant in the detection of dental caries. Community Dent Health 2010; 27:89-93. [PMID: 20648885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aims to investigate the reliability of examinations performed by teachers and by a dental assistant in detection of cavitated surfaces. METHODS A sample of 168 students, aged 5-14 years, attending a public school in Duque de Caxias, Rio de Janeiro, was examined by persons with three different training backgrounds: a dentist, a dental assistant, and schoolteachers. Examinations were performed in the school with the aid of a tongue blade under natural light. Kappa statistics were estimated to assess agreement between the observers. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value tests helped validate observations performed by the group of laypersons. RESULTS The findings suggest satisfactory agreement with the dentist, with kappa values of 0.730 and 0.781 for the teachers and the dental assistant, respectively. The absence of cavities was easily detected (specificity = 96%). More caution is required in positive results indicated by the teachers or the dental assistant because these were not always confirmed subsequently (sensitivity = 76%) by the dentist. CONCLUSION The aid of untrained personnel in dental epidemiology was shown to be a valid alternative for a signposting role.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Hecksher
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro UFRJ): Av. Brig. Trompowski, s/ no, Prédio da Prefeitura - Cidade Universitária -Institute of Public Health Studies (NESC), Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil.
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U.S. Army Office of the Chief of Public Affairs. Overcoming challenges. Dent Assist 2010; 79:36, 38. [PMID: 20695315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Abstract
UNLABELLED The thyroid gland is highly susceptible to radiation carcinogenesis and exposure to high-dose ionising radiation is the only established cause of thyroid cancer. Dental radiography, a common source of low-dose diagnostic radiation exposure in the general population, is often overlooked as a radiation hazard to the gland and may be associated with the risk of thyroid cancer. An increased risk of thyroid cancer has been reported in dentists, dental assistants, and x-ray workers; and exposure to dental x-rays has been associated with an increased risk of meningiomas and salivary tumours. METHODS To examine whether exposure to dental x-rays was associated with the risk of thyroid cancer, we conducted a population-based case-control interview study among 313 patients with thyroid cancer and a similar number of individually matched (year of birth +/- three years, gender, nationality, district of residence) control subjects in Kuwait. RESULTS Conditional logistic regression analysis, adjusted for other upper-body x-rays, showed that exposure to dental x-rays was significantly associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer (odds ratio = 2.1, 95% confidence interval: 1.4, 3.1) (p=0.001) with a dose-response pattern (p for trend <0.0001). The association did not vary appreciably by age, gender, nationality, level of education, or parity. DISCUSSION These findings, based on self-report by cases/controls, provide some support to the hypothesis that exposure to dental x-rays, particularly multiple exposures, may be associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer; and warrant further study in settings where historical dental x-ray records may be available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjum Memon
- Division of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Sussex, UK.
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Halpern DF. Team players. Dent Assist 2010; 79:12-42. [PMID: 20695313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Stanislav L. Expanded duties and dental assistant education. J Tenn Dent Assoc 2010; 90:14. [PMID: 20361582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Azodo CC, Ehigiator O, Ojo MA. Occupational risks and hepatitis B vaccination status of dental auxiliaries in Nigeria. Med Princ Pract 2010; 19:364-6. [PMID: 20639659 DOI: 10.1159/000316374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Accepted: 11/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the occupational exposure to needlestick and sharps injuries and hepatitis B vaccination status among dental auxiliaries. SUBJECTS AND METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional survey of 83 dental auxiliaries was conducted that included 12 technologists, 11 therapists, 53 nurses/surgical assistants, and 7 record officers. The survey included demography, history of needlestick and sharps injury, hepatitis B vaccination, knowledge and attitude towards HIV-infected patients, and the dental auxiliaries' information needs on HIV-related issues. RESULTS Of the 83 dental auxiliaries, 34 (41%) had experienced needlestick and sharps injury in the last 12 months. At the time of the study, only 43 (51.8%) had been immunized against hepatitis B. 62 (74.7%) of the respondents thought that it was easier to contract HIV than hepatitis B through needlestick in a dental clinic. 21 (25.3%) would not assist dentists treating HIV-positive patients. However, 76 (91.6%), a majority, agreed that they needed more information on HIV-related issues, with 59 (71.1%) specifying a single area of need and 17 (20.5%) more than one area of need. The single areas of need specified in descending order were infection control (n = 22, 26.5%), HIV counseling (n = 12, 14.5%), oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS (n = 11, 13.3%), postexposure prophylaxis (n = 9, 10.8%), and antiretroviral therapy (n = 5, 6.0%). CONCLUSION The data from this survey underscore the urgent need for educational interventions to encourage safe work practices. Hepatitis B vaccination, HIV-related knowledge and proper postexposure prophylaxis are needed to prevent occupational transmission of blood-borne viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Azodo
- Department of Periodontics, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, 300001 Benin City, Nigeria.
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McDonough D. Demographics for the decade. Dent Assist 2009; 78:40-43. [PMID: 19943387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
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Lam HTC, Ward T, O'Toole TG, Arola PE, Chang BK. Impact of infrastructure on graduate dental education and dental clinic productivity. J Dent Educ 2009; 73:184-191. [PMID: 19234074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Using all-inclusive data from 126 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health care facilities that provide dental services, this study identified the staffing infrastructure under which the Veterans Health Administration can provide graduate dental education without compromising dental clinic productivity. From regression analyses, we found that teaching residents has a negative impact on staff dentists' productivity; however, when the dental assistant to provider ratio is greater than or equal to 1.0, dental residents' workload contribution can offset the negative impact on overall clinic productivity. In the presence of dental residents, the dental assistant, front-desk personnel, and dental treatment room to provider ratios have a positive impact on productivity. The optimal ratios were calculated as 1.5 for dental assistants, 2.1 for dental treatment rooms, and 0.57 for front-desk personnel.
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Anderson CF. Workforce. Tex Dent J 2008; 125:314-315. [PMID: 18491760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
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da Fonseca MA, Pollock M, Majewski R, Tootla R, Murdoch-Kinch CA. Factors influencing candidates' choice of a pediatric dental residency program. J Dent Educ 2007; 71:1194-202. [PMID: 17761626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to identify the factors and program characteristics that influenced the program ranking decisions of applicants to pediatric dentistry residency programs. A questionnaire was sent to the first-year resident class in 2005 with a response rate of 69.2 percent (n=260). Approximately 55 percent were female (104/180) and 61 percent were non-His-panic white (110/180). The respondents reported that they applied to an average of nine programs, of which five were ranked. Most applicants were interested in a program that had a hospital component with a duration of two years. A program's ability to prepare the resident for an academic career was a minimal influence for 48.6 percent (87/179), and 57.5 percent (103/179) were not interested in a master's or Ph.D. degree. Factors associated with program ranking included modern clinical facilities, high ratio of dental assistants and faculty to residents, availability of assistants for sedation and general anesthesia cases, availability of a salary or stipend, and amount of clinical experience. Important non-clinical factors included hospitality during the interview, geographic location, and perceived reputation of the program. Opportunity to speak with the current residents in private, observing the interaction between residents and faculty, and touring the facilities were also highly considered. These findings may help program directors tailor their interviews and programs to suit the needs of applicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcio A da Fonseca
- Ohio State University/Nationwide Children's Hospital, Department of Dentistry, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors examined the labor market for registered dental hygienists (RDHs) and dental assistants (DAs) in California from 1997 to 2005 to determine whether there was a shortage in either market. METHODS This analysis used economic indicators interpreted within an economic framework to investigate trends in labor force numbers and market-determined wages for RDHs and DAs. Rising inflation-adjusted mean wages indicated a labor shortage, while declining inflation-adjusted mean wages indicated a labor surplus. RESULTS From 1999 to 2002, the wages for RDHs increased 48 percent and then stabilized, indicating a shortage had occurred, after which the market achieved equilibrium. Wages for DAs increased 13.9 percent from 1997 to 2001, but then declined from 2001 to 2005, indicating a shortage that then became a surplus. The market for DAs may not have stabilized. CONCLUSIONS Wages increased for RDHs and DAs, suggesting that labor shortages occurred in both markets. The large supply response in the market for DAs resulted in wages declining after their initial rise. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Tracking the local labor markets for RDHs and DAs will enable dental professionals to respond more efficiently to market signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy T Brown
- Nicholas C. Petris Center on Health Care Markets and Consumer Welfare, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 140 Earl Warren Hall, MC7360, Berkeley, CA 94720-7360, USA.
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Hornby P, Stokes E, Russell W, Cochrane D, Morris J. A dental workforce review for a Midlands Strategic Health Authority. Br Dent J 2006; 200:575-9; discussion 567; quiz 588. [PMID: 16732251 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.4813588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2005] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore opportunities for workforce development in NHS general dental services (GDS) in Shropshire and Staffordshire. METHOD Secondary data sources were supplemented with a primary survey of GDS practices to build up a profile of the existing GDS workforce and its current capacity. Attitudes and perceptions on current workforce issues and potential solutions were gathered using a second survey and explored further through other qualitative techniques including interviews and a focus group discussion. RESULTS The results confirm that there is a shortage of dentists in the area, fuelled by multiple factors including the move from NHS to private work, the decision to retire early and a growing disillusionment with NHS policies and remuneration. Modelling of alternate approaches to future dental clinical needs highlighted the opportunity for meeting the consequent workforce demands through increased involvement of hygienists and therapists. CONCLUSIONS This study has provided local evidence to inform dental service development in Shropshire and Staffordshire. It has provided a starting point for exploring new ways of working and will contribute towards a more effective implementation of new and evolving service strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Hornby
- Centre for Health Planning and Management, Keele University, Staffordshire, ST5 5BG.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2002, the Centre for Rural and Remote Oral Health (CRROH) completed a rural oral health workforce survey which indicated that a high number of therapists, although registered, were not working as therapists. The aim of the present study was to develop a profile of the dental therapy workforce and analyse the perceptions of therapists. METHODS In 2004, a postal questionnaire survey was undertaken amongst all registered dental and school dental therapists for 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003. RESULTS Valid information was obtained from 253 therapists (55 per cent response rate). The therapy workforce are almost exclusively female, have an average age of 40 years, are working in urban areas, obtained their qualification on average 20 years ago, work for the School Dental Service and qualified in Western Australia. More than a quarter no longer worked as therapists. Perceptions regarding the advantages and disadvantages of dental therapy as a career were identified. CONCLUSIONS When trying to promote dental therapy and school dental therapy as a career, retain therapists and recruit new graduates, the opportunities identified in this survey should be embraced. A clear focus on the issues will be required to facilitate meeting the workforce objectives as outlined in Australia's National Oral Health Plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kruger
- The Centre for Rural and Remote Oral Health, The University of Western Australia.
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Mitchell TV, Peters R, Gadbury-Amyot CC, Overman PR, Stover L. Access to care and the allied oral health care workforce in Kansas: perceptions of Kansas dental hygienists and scaling dental assistants. J Dent Educ 2006; 70:263-78. [PMID: 16522755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Access to oral health care continues to be a problem in the United States. Research has called for innovative approaches to improve access to oral health care and reduce oral health care disparities. Successful alternate approaches have been reported. In 1998 the Kansas Legislature passed a proposal to enhance access to care and manpower needs by allowing dental assistants to provide supragingival scaling, a service traditionally assigned to dental hygienists. In 2000, Mitchell et al. investigated the perceptions of Kansas dental hygienists and scaling dental assistants in relation to House Bill 2724 (HB 2724), which allows dental assistants to perform coronal scaling. The intent of the study was to collect baseline data in relation to HB 2724. The purpose of the present study was to follow up on the impact of HB 2724 six years after legislation. Both groups report satisfaction with their professions: scaling dental assistants believe the delivery of care in Kansas has changed, and areas of Kansas previously noted as dental health professional shortage areas are now served by either a registered dental hygienist or scaling dental assistant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Villalpando Mitchell
- University of Missouri--Kansas City School of Dentistry, Division of Dental Hygiene, 650 E. 25 Street, Room 415, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
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Ordell S, Unell L, Söderfeldt B. An analysis of present dental professions in Sweden. Swed Dent J 2006; 30:155-64. [PMID: 17243443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Dentistry in Sweden is predicted to have a shortage of dentists in the future and the division of labour within dentistry will be a more debated question. In order to forecast the effects of such a shortage the professional status of the involved groups must be made clearer. The objective of this paper is to analyse the emergence and present professional status of clinical dental professions in Sweden. The study was conducted on the basis of theories on professions, and their roles in organizations was analysed. The results were applied on the historical emergence, establishment and consolidation of clinical dental professions in Sweden. The results show that a large sector of salaried dentists has not diminished the professional status of the Swedish dentists. Professional ambitions such as many clinical subspecialties and a strong element of research have not been restrained by the public health ambitions in the Public Dental Health Service (PDHS). Presently, other dental professions are dental hygienists, dental technicians and dental nurses. Of these the only other licensed group, the dental hygienists, are an emerging profession. They have an uphill struggle to obtain a full professional status, mainly because their knowledge domains are neither specific nor exclusive to their group. Development of a common core curriculum on a clearly academic level would enhance their professional status. Dental technicians and nurses are lacking fundamental traits as professions. There appears to be little need for additional groups of clinical professions besides dentists and dental hygienists in Swedish dentistry. In conclusion,this analysis provided better understanding of the present status of the Swedish dental professions, to prepare for future restructuring of the dental care system. Further work will be needed to understand the impact of professional traits on the management of groups of professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven Ordell
- Department of Oral Public Health, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Many poor, medically disabled and geographically isolated populations have difficulty accessing private-sector dental care and are considered underserved. To address this problem, public- and voluntary-sector organizations have established clinics and provide care to the underserved. Collectively, these clinics are known as "the dental safety net." The authors describe the dental safety net in Connecticut and examine the capacity and efficiency of this system to provide care to the noninstitutionalized underserved population of the state. METHODS The authors describe Connecticut's dental safety net in terms of dentists, allied health staff members, operatories, patient visits and patients treated per dentist per year. The authors compare the productivity of safety-net dentists with that of private practitioners. They also estimate the capacity of the safety net to treat people enrolled in Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program. RESULTS The safety net is made up of dental clinics in community health centers, hospitals, the dental school and public schools. One hundred eleven dentists, 38 hygienists and 95 dental assistants staff the clinics. Safety-net dentists have fewer patient visits and patients than do private practitioners. The Connecticut safety-net system has the capacity to treat about 28.2 percent of publicly insured patients. CONCLUSIONS The dental safety net is an important community resource, and greater use of allied dental personnel could substantially improve the capacity of the system to care for the poor and other underserved populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tryfon Beazoglou
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington 06030, USA.
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Salary survey results say CDAs still earning more! Dent Assist 2005; 74:34-6. [PMID: 15900858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
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McDonough D. Looks like a seller's market. Reminder ... don't sell yourself short! Dent Assist 2004; 73:55. [PMID: 15633359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
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Glasrud P. Minnesota's dental workforce: a 2004 survey of Greater Minnesota dentists. Part one. Northwest Dent 2004; 83:37-40, 79. [PMID: 15669402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Educational programs play an important role in preparing a qualified dental work force. This article reviews the current status and trends in dental, advanced dental and allied dental education programs in the United States and examines their impact on the dental work force. OVERVIEW This analysis focuses on survey data collected by the American Dental Association during the past 10 to 15 years and compares recent patterns in applications, enrollment and graduation with previous trends. The numbers of educational programs, applicants, enrollees and graduates have increased in dentistry, dental hygiene and dental assisting, while dental laboratory technology has declined in all measures. The proportion of women in dentistry has increased, while the ethnic profile of dental and allied personnel has shown little change. Both the cost of dental education and student debt continue to increase. CONCLUSIONS Despite increases in the number of educational programs and overall numbers of graduates from dental and allied dental education programs, the proportion of underrepresented groups still lags behind their representation in the overall population, and the number of allied personnel falls short of practice needs. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Patterns in applications, enrollment and graduation are important determinants of the dental and allied dental work force. The cost and funding of education significantly affect the attractiveness of dental careers and the sustainability of educational programs and should be monitored carefully by the profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Neumann
- Division of Education, American Dental Association, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Li G, Ni ZZ. [Designing dental manpower index to evaluate dental manpower resources]. Hua Xi Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi 2004; 22:255-8. [PMID: 15293480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this investigation is to find out a method to evaluate dental manpower resources. METHODS We selected population, GDP, number of dentist and number of different oral health professionals from certain internet stations, published books and journals from 1996 to 2000 as our investigating data. RESULTS Data was collected from 100 countries. Our investigation found that the design of dental manpower index to evaluate dental manpower resources was effective and convenient. CONCLUSION Dental manpower index is a good method to evaluate dental manpower resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Li
- Dept. of Health Statistics, West China Public Health School, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Spadaro SE, Luciano WJ, Jennings DE. DENCOM trains EFDAs. Dent Assist 2004; 73:30-2. [PMID: 15218686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
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Stone S. Allied committee focuses on staff shortages. J Mass Dent Soc 2003; 51:40. [PMID: 12380039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
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Mitchell TV, Gadbury-Amyot CC, Overman PR, Peters R. The impact of Kansas House Bill 2724: perceptions of Kansas dental hygienists and dental assistants. J Dent Hyg 2003; 77:233-44. [PMID: 15022523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Kansas House Bill 2724 (HB 2724), which allows dental assistants to perform coronal scaling, was passed by the Kansas legislature in the spring of 1998. This bill was the legislature's way of addressing access to care and manpower issues, in relation to oral health care in Kansas. The intent of this study was to collect baseline data related to HB 2724. Specific purposes of this study were to, 1) compare overall perceptions of dental hygienists and scaling assistants related to HB 2724, 2) compare perceptions of dental hygienists and scaling assistants on how HD 2724 has addressed access to care and manpower issues, and 3) examine the impact of HB 2724 on the delivery of preventive care in underserved areas in Kansas. METHODS This study employed a nonexperimental descriptive survey research design. Two survey instruments were developed consisting of Likert scale questions, demographic information, and closed and opened-ended questions. All registered Kansas dental hygienists, and dental assistants who had completed the training course approved by the Kansas Dental Board to perform coronal scaling of teeth, were chosen to participate. RESULTS A total response rate of 38% for dental hygienists, and 42% for scaling assistants was achieved. Analyses were conducted to ensure validity and reliability of the two survey instruments, including factor analysis and internal reliability measures. In relation to overall satisfaction with career choices, both dental hygienists and scaling assistants reported being happy in their professions and respected by their dentist employers. The majority of dental hygiene respondents (79%) did not see HB 2724 addressing either access to care or manpower issues in the state, while in contrast a majority (89%) of scaling assistants believed that this was the best answer for Kansas in relation to access to care and manpower. In examining the impact of HB 2724 on delivery of preventive care in underserved areas of Kansas, this study found that the majority of scaling assistants reported practicing in metropolitan areas, as opposed to identified oral health care shortage areas in the state. CONCLUSIONS While both dental hygienists and scaling assistants are satisfied with their career choices, this legislation does not appear to be addressing its main objectives-access to care and increased manpower in dentally underserved areas in Kansas.
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Abstract
PURPOSE The cross-infection risks for dentists have been well recognised, and much has been published regarding the incidence of occupational exposures to patient body fluids. Less has been reported regarding the risks to dental assistants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of occupational exposures to patient body fluids among dental assistants, to assess the rate of reporting of such incidents, and to evaluate the association of various factors with these exposures. METHOD All 84 dental assistants working at Birmingham Dental Hospital were asked to complete a confidential questionnaire to provide retrospective information regarding the nature and incidence of any occupational exposures they had experienced. RESULTS An overall response rate of 94% was achieved. Dental nurses experienced fewer occupational exposures than dental students at the same institution, and reported incidents more frequently. More injuries occurred after the treatment session. Handling local anaesthetic syringes was associated with more injuries, and percutaneous injuries predominated. Trainee nurses had experienced more occupational injuries in the preceding six months than their qualified colleagues. There was no significant association with any of the other factors evaluated. CONCLUSIONS The general incidence of occupational exposures among the dental assistants in this survey was low in comparison to dental students at the same institution. A further reduction may be possible by increasing the training of unqualified nurses with particular regard to post-treatment handling of sharp dental instruments and equipment.
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Macdonald B. CDE, SELECT committee study dental workforce development. Todays FDA 2002; 14:11-2. [PMID: 12572222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
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Finkbeiner BL. Expanded alternative dental assisting program unveiled. J Mich Dent Assoc 2002; 84:28-31. [PMID: 12572152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Casamassimo
- Section of Pediatric Dentistry, The Ohio State University College of Dentistry in Columbus, USA
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Waldman HB. Will there be a shortage of dental auxiliaries in the future? N Y State Dent J 2002; 68:20-1. [PMID: 11989331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
The number of graduates from dental hygiene programs continues to increase, but retention of dental hygienists in practices is a concern. The numbers of graduates from dental assisting and especially dental laboratory technology programs are decreasing. The impact on dental practice size and practice productivity is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Barry Waldman
- Department of General Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, State University at Stony Brook, USA
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