From the Editor
Shannon L. Pace, CDA
Dear Readers,
Oral Health is More Than Just Healthy Teeth. This is not only the title of our continuing education article, it’s an idea that we live by. As oral healthcare providers working in an era of ever-expanding medical discoveries, our field of knowledge and responsibility continually includes more information, all related to the health of our patients. This month’s issue features articles that encompass this expanding arena of oral-systemic health.
The first continuing education article on oral health explores the relationship between poor eating and drinking habits and the development of obesity, diabetes, caries, and dental erosion. This article is a wealth of data on what the US population eats and drinks, and the resulting health issues. After reading this, you will have the facts at-hand to educate and encourage your patients.
The Organization for Safety and Asepsis Procedures provided our second continuing education article as part of their series on infection control in the dental practice. This month focuses on support equipment: the considerable variety of objects in a dental office—including fire extinguishers, lighting, first aid kits, and computers—that must be taken into account in thorough infection control.
Continuing education, community service, and improvement of the profession . . . these are the qualities of the Dental Assistant of the Year. I am certain you have colleagues who excel in these areas and who would love to be nominated. This annual award, sponsored by Colgate and Inside Dental Assisting, includes a cash prize of $2,500, a feature in the journal, and a trip to the Greater New York Dental Meeting for the award presentation. The deadline is fast approaching, so don’t delay—to nominate one (or more) of your exceptional colleagues please visit our website today at www.insidedentalassisting.com.
While you’re on our website, make sure you take the time to explore the new features we’ve been adding. You can browse previously-published articles that you might have missed, or read our online-only content, which this month includes the second part of our extraordinary feature on Dental Treatment Issues for Patients with HIV/AIDS. There are professional resources, too, such as patient education materials, white papers, and industry contacts and calendars. In addition, you will be able to log on and send us your feedback, we enjoy hearing from you. Your comments are vital to all of us at Inside Dental Assisting. Thank you for your continuing support.
Shannon L. Pace, CDA
