Journal Of Dental Hygiene[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Effect of the Core Four Movement on Musculoskeletal Disorders in Dental Hygiene Students.
Wilkinson BJ, Hunsinger M
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629190
The neck and all areas of the upper extremity (shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand) are at elevated risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder in the dental hygiene population. The purpose of this study was to in...
The neck and all areas of the upper extremity (shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand) are at elevated risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder in the dental hygiene population. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of adding a corrective exercise regimen on levels of self-rated pain, disability and self-efficacy for dental hygiene students and explore outcomes from implementing an interdisciplinary ergonomic training program over a 20-month period. Students from two consecutive graduating cohorts of a dental hygiene studies education program served as the control group with the subsequent two cohorts serving as the experimental group. The control group received the standardized ergonomic instruction as taught as part of the dental hygiene curriculum. The experimental group received the standardized ergonomic instruction with the addition of the Core Four movement routine performed after each clinic session. All participants completed a novel survey at the end of their academic training utilizing the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Neck Disability Index and QuickDASH to evaluate levels of pain, neck disability, upper extremity dysfunction and self-efficacy. There were significant differences in reported self-efficacy levels between the control group and experimental group. However, there were no significant between group differences based on the outcomes of the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Neck Disability Index and QuickDASH measures. Including the Core Four movements as part of the ergonomic curriculum may enhance perceived levels of self-efficacy among dental hygiene students. The utility of the Core Four routine for dental hygiene students should be investigated further using randomization, baseline assessment and collection of symptoms related to the lumbar region.
Centennial Recognitions.
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629189
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Fostering Interprofessional Belonging: Dental hygiene students' perceptions of a hospital rotation.
Hoerler SB, Fritz CL
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629188
The integration of interprofessional education within dental hygiene curricula as required by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards states that graduates must be prepared to function effectively within...
The integration of interprofessional education within dental hygiene curricula as required by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards states that graduates must be prepared to function effectively within collaborative, team-based healthcare environments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate dental hygiene students' perceptions of an interprofessional hospital rotation, focusing on its perceived value, sense of interprofessional belonging, and acquired knowledge. A cross-sectional study design was used to assess student perceptions following participation in an interprofessional hospital rotation. The survey instrument consisted of 16 items, including demographic, Likert-scale items and open-ended questions. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, while the open-ended responses were organized thematically to identify key insights regarding the rotation's impact. Students overwhelmingly reported that the rotation was a valuable experience for both themselves (100%) and patients (100%). A strong sense of belonging was observed, with 93.8% of students feeling they were an integral part of the healthcare team and 81.3% believing their contributions were valued by other providers. Additionally, 100% reported increased awareness of the oral health needs of hospitalized patients, while 81.3% indicated greater understanding of how medical conditions influence oral health. Analysis of the open-ended responses revealed three major themes: recognition of the importance of oral care in hospitalized patients, a desire for improved communication and rotation structure, and overall positive and rewarding experiences. Interprofessional hospital rotations provide significant educational value for dental hygiene students by enhancing their knowledge, fostering a sense of belonging, and increased confidence in providing patient care. These findings support the integration of hospital-based interprofessional experiences into dental hygiene curricula, aligning with CODA standards and preparing students to succeed within collaborative, team-based healthcare environments.
Standardized Patients in Dental Hygiene Education.
Balcazar-Romero JS, Oh U, Dsouza-Norwood RM … +1 more , Brame JL
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629187
Practice and evaluation of clinical skills in health professions education are essential for developing competent clinicians. Simulation education has emerged as a strategic intervention to achieve this outcome. The purp...
Practice and evaluation of clinical skills in health professions education are essential for developing competent clinicians. Simulation education has emerged as a strategic intervention to achieve this outcome. The purpose of this study was to explore dental hygiene program directors' knowledge and perceptions of standardized patients (SPs) and investigate current utilization of SPs in dental hygiene curricula across the United States (US). A cross-sectional, descriptive study was designed to survey dental hygiene program directors from the accredited dental hygiene programs in the US (n=334). A 22-item online survey was designed and included items on demographics, knowledge of SPs, current use of SPs, willingness to integrate SPs, perceived benefits and clinical skills impact, attitudes toward SPs as a curricular component, and perceived barriers to implementation. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; qualitative open-ended responses underwent thematic analysis via manual coding. Ninety-four responses were received for a 28% response rate. Of the respondents, nearly half were unfamiliar with SPs in dental hygiene education (48%, n=41), and only 21% (n=18) integrated SPs into the curriculum. Most (83%, n=44) indicated willingness to collaborate with other health care educators to integrate SPs. Key perceived benefits identified were improving communication and patient interaction skills, assessing student clinical competence effectively, and providing realistic patient scenarios for practice. Barriers to SP integration included a lack of funding (56%, n=40), lack of actors for SP training (51%, n=36), and curriculum overload (51%, n=36). Program directors acknowledged that SPs could enhance clinical skills but unfamiliarity and barriers to integration may hinder adoption. These findings present an opportunity to share resources through interprofessional collaboration to support SP integration in dental hygiene programs. Future research should examine dental hygiene students' perspectives on SP effectiveness compared to traditional methods and investigate best practices from dental hygiene programs that successfully integrate SPs.
Leading the Way in Pediatric Oral Health Promotion.
McKinney DC
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629186
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Professional Quality of Life and Self-Compassion Among Dental Hygienists.
Tumidajski V, Boyd LD, Adams JL … +1 more , Vineyard J
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629185
Health care professionals are often faced with stressful situations, demanding physical work, and unique pressures impacting patient care and personal health and wellness. The purpose of this study was to assess perceive...
Health care professionals are often faced with stressful situations, demanding physical work, and unique pressures impacting patient care and personal health and wellness. The purpose of this study was to assess perceived levels of self-compassion and their relationship with professional quality of life in clinical dental hygienists. A cross-sectional survey of clinical dental hygienists (n=345) was conducted using a non-probability sample recruited via social media. Data collection used two validated instruments: Professional Quality of Life-21 with 2 sub-scales (compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue) and Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) with 6 sub-scales (self-kindness, self-judgment, common humanity, isolation, mindfulness, over-identification). Descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression modeling were used for data analysis. The completion rate was 48.4% (n=167). The SCS total mean score (M=2.85), compassion satisfaction (CS; 37.86) and compassion fatigue (CF; 25.62) mean scores were all in the moderate range. Regression models included SCS sub-scales and demographics with statistically significant correlations to CS and CF. In the regression model for CS, the SCS sub-scales of self-kindness (β=2.10, t(.225) = 2.078, =.039) and mindfulness (β=2.50, t(.250) = 2.312, =.022) emerged as predictors. The model explained 18.9% of variance in CS (R = .199, adjusted R = .189, F(2,164) = 20.35, <.001). In the regression model for CF, the SCS sub-scales self-judgment (β=-.33, t(162)=-3.53, <.001) and isolation (β=-.215, t(162) = -2.282, =.024) along with the average number of hours worked per week providing patient care (β=.147, t(162) = 2.217, =.028) were predictors. The model explained 28.4% of the variance in CF (R=.297, adjusted R=.284, F(3,162)=22.84, <.001). Dental hygienists self-reported moderate self-compassion, CS and CF. Improvement in self-compassion and CS may prevent CF which reduces the risk of burnout. Strategies might include personal (e.g., positive self-talk and self-care) and workplace (e.g., employee wellness resources) approaches.
Consideration of Chronic Pulmonary Disease and Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages in the Dental Hygiene Care Plan.
Wiener RC, Puette ES, Bhandari R
J Dent Hyg · 2026 Feb · PMID 41629184
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a multifactorial disease/syndrome with epigenetic components and reduced quality of life. Sugar sweetened beverages (SSB) and COPD have been linked in studies with limited...
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a multifactorial disease/syndrome with epigenetic components and reduced quality of life. Sugar sweetened beverages (SSB) and COPD have been linked in studies with limited sample sizes or outside the United States(US). The purpose of this study was to determine whether the association remains in a large and representative sample of the US. Cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015-2020, on adults >18 years (n=11,090) were utilized for this study. The dependent variable was COPD (yes, no) and the primary variable of interest was percent of daily sugar caloric intake from SSB reported on 24-hour dietary recall (<10%, ≥10%). Weighted bivariate analyses and logistic regression analyses were conducted, controlling for the complex sample design and potential confounders. Overall, 8.6% of individuals reported COPD; 44.1% reported drinking SSBs. The percent of daily overall caloric intake from SSB was significantly associated with COPD in the multivariable logistic regression analysis (adjusted odds ratio=1.39 [95%CI:1.13, 1.72] = 0.0027). Other factors associated with COPD were female sex, older age, poverty level, no insurance, current smoking, higher BMI, and race/ethnicity other than non-Hispanic white. In this nationally representative study, higher caloric intake from SSBs was significantly associated with COPD. Awareness of this relationship can aid in decision making when identifying priorities for nutritional counseling in the dental hygiene care plan. Communication of this information has the potential to benefit patients' oral health, as well as their overall health and wellness.
Preretirement Preparation Behaviors and Factors Related to Retirement Planning by Dental Hygienists.
Wise KR, Boyd LD
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41326278
Little is known about the retirement planning behaviors of dental hygienists. The purpose of this study was to explore the psychological antecedents and other factors related to preretirement planning behaviors of dental...
Little is known about the retirement planning behaviors of dental hygienists. The purpose of this study was to explore the psychological antecedents and other factors related to preretirement planning behaviors of dental hygienists. An online, cross-sectional survey research study was conducted with a convenience sample of practicing dental hygienists (n=253) recruited via social media and professional networks. Data collection included work characteristics, retirement planning activities, and the validated Future Time Perspective (FTP), and Retirement Planning Goals Clarity (RPGC) instruments, along with two open-ended questions. Data analysis included descriptive measures, correlations, and regression modeling. The completion rate for the survey was 78.7% (n=199). The average anticipated age at retirement was 63.7 years old (SD=5.56). In the sample, fewer than half (45%) reported having an employer-sponsored benefit plan, 34% had a defined employee contribution plan, and 75% had contributed to retirement investments/savings in the past year. On a scale of 1-7, the mean FTP was 5.12 (SD 1.16) and mean RPGC was 5.01 (SD 1.51). In regression models, FTP (β=.54, <.001) was a predictor of RPGC, however there were no other significant variables. The model was significant (F (6, 134)=12.9, <.001) and explained 33.4% of the variance in retirement planning. Higher FTP scores were positively associated with higher RPGC scores, however there were no other significant variables associated with preretirement planning. Addressing barriers to retirement planning while developing clear goals for financial stability is critical, particularly as the dental hygiene workforce ages.
Integrating Social Determinants of Health Screening in Student Dental Hygiene Clinical Practice.
Swigart DJ, Gurenlian JR, McCracken AA
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41326277
Social determinants of health (SDOH) significantly influence oral and systemic health outcomes yet are often unaddressed in dental hygiene clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of...
Social determinants of health (SDOH) significantly influence oral and systemic health outcomes yet are often unaddressed in dental hygiene clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of integrating SDOH screenings and referrals into a dental hygiene educational clinic and assess the impact on student learning. This two-part, survey-based study included adult patients (n=208) receiving care at a dental hygiene clinic who had completed a validated SDOH needs assessment. Patients with identified needs were referred to community resources using findhelp.org and 211.org, with follow-up conducted via phone calls. A second survey captured reflections from student dental hygienists (n=15) on their experience with the screening and referral process. Findings showed that while most patients reported stable housing and food access, a modest number reported concerns related to personal safety, transportation, healthcare access, and emotional well-being. Only a small minority accessed resources post-referral, often due to barriers such as time constraints or that they were not given the website information. Student reflections indicated that the experience increased awareness of patient challenges beyond oral health and fostered empathy, although time limitations and patient discomfort were noted as barriers. Students expressed a variety of views on incorporating SDOH assessments into future practice. This study demonstrated that SDOH screening and referral is feasible within dental hygiene education and can enhance student understanding of the broader context of patient care. Further research is needed to determine the experiences of patients and students in other dental hygiene entry-level programs. Future curriculum integration and expansion to additional programs may further support efforts to address health disparities beyond the educational setting to clinical dental hygiene practice.
Examining Low-income Caregivers' Knowledge and Comprehension of the Dental Caries Process.
Sullivan M, McKinney DC, Shuman D … +1 more , Zhang Q
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41326276
Dental caries among young children remains a public health concern in the United States (US). Children of caregivers with low oral health literacy (OHL) tend to have greater unmet dental needs and poorer oral health stat...
Dental caries among young children remains a public health concern in the United States (US). Children of caregivers with low oral health literacy (OHL) tend to have greater unmet dental needs and poorer oral health status. The purpose of this study was to examine the understanding of pediatric dental terms associated with the dental caries process among low-income caregivers. This study included 14 caregivers with children enrolled in a Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) in the Southeastern US. Through structured phone interviews, the validated Oral Health Literacy Inventory for Parents (OH-LIP) was used to measure term recognition, vocabulary knowledge and comprehension of eight terms related to the dental caries process (i.e., acid, hidden sugars, plaque). Two researchers completed the scoring of the inventory and were calibrated on an adapted scoring guide. Content analysis and descriptive statistics were used for synthesizing responses on the OH-LIP inventory and a questionnaire, respectively. Term recognition (OH-LIP part I) scores were high with the majority of caregivers correctly pronouncing the 36 pediatric dental-related terms on the inventory. For the eight terms related to the dental caries process, vocabulary knowledge and comprehension (OH-LIP part II & III) scores were low to moderate, with 0 - 50% of participants providing a fully correct response. Furthermore, there was an observed decrease in scores for all eight terms related to the dental caries process from word recognition to comprehension. This group of low-income caregivers had high word recognition scores for terms related to the dental caries process, indicating an initial high level of OHL. However, vocabulary knowledge and comprehension scores indicated minimal understanding of the same terms. These findings highlight the need for tailored oral health education and messaging that is easily understood for caregivers of young children.
Exploring the Experiences of Dental Hygienists as Myofunctional Therapists.
Fitzhugh BC, Mitchell TV, Krust Bray KS … +1 more , Sutton JD
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41326275
Orofacial myofunctional disorders are disruptive patterns that can impact orofacial growth and development. The purpose of this study was to explore orofacial myology education, certification, and practice by dental hygi...
Orofacial myofunctional disorders are disruptive patterns that can impact orofacial growth and development. The purpose of this study was to explore orofacial myology education, certification, and practice by dental hygienists (DH) as well as the advantages and barriers to the practice of orofacial myology for DHs. A phenomenological heuristic qualitative approach was used for this study. Purposive sampling was used to solicit participants with experience in orofacial myology through the online membership lists of the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM), Academy of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (AOMT), Breathe Institute and Neo-Health Services. Semi-structured, virtual interviews, personal experiences of the primary investigator, and historical documents were used for triangulation of the collected data to identify emerging themes. Data analysis resulted in five core themes and nine sub-themes. The core themes included: uniform credentialing, autonomous workforce models, identity distinctiveness, business management, and access to myofunctional care. Cost and complexity were the largest barriers to the practice of myofunctional therapy, while autonomy and a wide array of work assignments were identified as advantages. While myofunctional therapy education and certification can be complex and costly, this specialty deserves further attention as part of the delivery of preventive and therapeutic oral and systemic health care.
The Power of Us.
Draper CK
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41326274
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Educators' Perspectives on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry.
Troy AM, Bono LK, Gurenlian JR
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Dec · PMID 41326273
Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds the potential for improving dental hygiene clinical practice as well as dental hygiene education. The purpose of this study was to identify educators' perspectives, attitudes, and conce...
Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds the potential for improving dental hygiene clinical practice as well as dental hygiene education. The purpose of this study was to identify educators' perspectives, attitudes, and concerns about the implementation of AI in dental hygiene education and students' preparedness for clinical practice. This study used an exploratory qualitative design with a purposive sample of dental hygiene educators from the United States. Virtual interviews were conducted using an interview guide during the fall 2024 and spring 2025. Recorded interview sessions lasted an average of 45 minutes and were transcribed to an encrypted, password-protected account. Data were analyzed using qualitative research software. Responses were coded and categorized into emerging themes and sub themes. A pilot interview, member checks, and investigator triangulation were used to establish validity and reliability. Twenty-two dental hygiene educators from across the United Staes participated in the study. The themes identified were Informed, Misgivings, Resources, Academic Integrity, Implementation, and Professional Assimilation. Subthemes for Misgivings included Intellectual Deterioration and Neophobia while Subthemes for Academic Integrity were Misuse and Guidelines. Formalized training and resources related to dental hygiene education and ethical guidelines are needed to implement AI in didactic and clinical instruction. Additional studies identifying dental hygiene students' preferences and understanding of AI and methods for implementing AI in clinical education to prepare students for practice are needed.
Artificial Intelligence and Its Influence on Dental Hygiene.
Hurlbutt M
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022558
Artificial intelligence (AI) including generative AI, analytical AI, predictive AI, prescriptive AI, and hybrid AI, is rapidly evolving and continues to expand its influence across dental hygiene, transforming clinical c...
Artificial intelligence (AI) including generative AI, analytical AI, predictive AI, prescriptive AI, and hybrid AI, is rapidly evolving and continues to expand its influence across dental hygiene, transforming clinical care, education, research, public health, corporate operations, administration, and entrepreneurship. In clinical practice, AI is advancing diagnostic accuracy for radiographic interpretation, periodontal assessment, and early detection of oral pathology, while enhancing decision-making and personalized care planning. In education, AI enables adaptive learning, intelligent tutoring, predictive analytics, and generative content creation, enriching both didactic and clinical training. In research and public health, Artificial intelligence supports large-scale data analysis, disease surveillance, teledentistry, and targeted prevention strategies, with a growing emphasis on equity and inclusivity. Corporate and administrative applications include AI-driven product development, market analysis, workflow optimization, and performance management. Entrepreneurial uses span idea generation, content creation, branding, and market engagement. As AI capabilities advance, dental hygienists must balance innovation with ethical oversight, digital literacy, and equitable access. Ensuring AI is integrated through evidence-based practices, transparent decision-making, and patient-centered values will be essential to realizing its benefits while preserving the integrity of the profession.
A Randomized Clinical Trial Evaluating Plaque and Gingivitis Effects of an Entry-Tier Oscillating-Rotating Electric Toothbrush.
Adam RE, Grender JM, Timm H … +2 more , Qaqish J, Goyal CR
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022557
The purpose of this study was to evaluate plaque and gingivitis reduction efficacy of an entry-tier oscillating-rotating (OR) electric toothbrush, used in two brushing modes (Daily Clean and Sensitive), as compared to a...
The purpose of this study was to evaluate plaque and gingivitis reduction efficacy of an entry-tier oscillating-rotating (OR) electric toothbrush, used in two brushing modes (Daily Clean and Sensitive), as compared to a manual toothbrush. This was a three-treatment, three-period crossover study, assessing plaque with the Rustogi Modification of the Navy Plaque Index after a single brushing and after one week of use. Additionally, in the first treatment period only, participants were assessed for gingivitis (Modified Gingival Index; MGI) and bleeding at baseline, week 1 and week 2 while using their assigned product for two weeks. All participants had baseline evidence of gingivitis and plaque. Forty-two participants were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. The OR toothbrush, used in either mode compared with the manual toothbrush, produced statistically significantly greater reductions in the number of bleeding sites at week 1 and week 2 (≤.001) and in MGI score at week two (≤.001). By week 1, the bleeding site reduction with the OR toothbrush in either mode was at least twice as great as the manual toothbrush. The OR toothbrush used in Daily Clean mode also achieved statistically significantly greater MGI reduction at week 1 (=.011). Both OR toothbrush groups showed statistically significantly greater plaque reduction compared with the manual toothbrush group after a single use (whole mouth, lingual, buccal, interproximal, and gingival margin plaque; <.001) and after one week of repeated use (whole mouth, lingual, buccal, and interproximal plaque; ≤.022). The entry-tier OR toothbrush provided significantly greater plaque and gingivitis reductions when used in either mode as compared to the manual toothbrush.
Prevalence of Sexuality Implicit Bias in Entry-Level Dental Hygiene Students.
Drew M, Ludwig E, Suedbeck J … +1 more , Howell A
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022556
Bias and discrimination may create barriers and affect the delivery of culturally competent care to sexual minorities. An awareness of biases early in education may promote more equitable oral health care delivery to div...
Bias and discrimination may create barriers and affect the delivery of culturally competent care to sexual minorities. An awareness of biases early in education may promote more equitable oral health care delivery to diverse populations. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of sexuality-implicit attitudes in entry-level dental hygiene students at one university. This cross-sectional survey study included a convenience sample of dental hygiene students from one university (n=74). The Implicit Associations Test (IAT), a validated tool for measuring implicit bias, was modified for use in dentistry with permission from Project Implicit The IAT requires participants to rapidly pair two social groups, in this case, homosexual and heterosexual individuals, with either positive or negative attributes (words/concepts), using the "E" and "I" computer keyboard keys. Faster average response times to pairings indicates a preference for a group. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the means between groups and determine the prevalence of sexuality implicit biases. Independent samples t-test was utilized to examine differences in the level of implicit bias based on the year in the dental hygiene program (<0.05). One-way between-subjects ANOVA was used to examine differences in age groups (<0.05). Seventy dental hygiene students (n=70) completed the survey, (n=34 first year, n=36 second year). The average overall implicit score for first-year students was 0.001 (no sexuality preference), and 0.069 for second-year students (no sexuality preference). No statistically significant differences were found when comparing year in dental hygiene program and age groups. Undergraduate dental hygiene students had no sexuality bias for straight or gay individuals.
Dental Hygienists: Shaping the future of health.
Gurenlian J
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022555
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Interest in Accessing Integrated Dental Services in Primary Care Among Patients with Low Dental Care Utilization.
Ahern J, Bronstein AB, Tam C
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022554
Medical-dental integration models in primary care settings offer opportunities to increase access to oral health care, particularly for vulnerable populations. The purpose of this study was to assess dental care utilizat...
Medical-dental integration models in primary care settings offer opportunities to increase access to oral health care, particularly for vulnerable populations. The purpose of this study was to assess dental care utilization and measure patient interest in accessing integrated dental services within the primary care setting, among patients attending a primary care practice participating in MassHealth's Accountable Care Organization program. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants from a safety-net health care system serving the greater Boston area. A 10-item survey was used to collect data on dental care utilization and measure interest in accessing integrated dental services at one primary care practice. Descriptive statistics, in addition to bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to characterize the sample and explore dental care utilization associations. A total of 149 individuals participated, with over half (52%) reporting dental care utilization in the past year. Participants with public insurance were less likely to have seen a dental provider compared to those with private insurance (OR=0.35, 95% CI [0.12, 0.99]). Most patients (77.2%) expressed interest in accessing both in-person appointments with dental hygienists and teledentistry appointments with dentists (63.8%). When asked to choose between the two services, integrated dental hygienist appointments emerged as the more popular option for a majority of respondents (83.9%) Interest in accessing teledentistry appointments was higher among non-English speakers (OR=2.76, 95% CI [1.19, 6.40]). Patients with low dental care utilization showed high interest in accessing integrated dental services at a primary care practice that participates in MassHealth's Accountable Care Organization program, supporting moving forward with pilot initiatives to evaluate implementation strategies.
Video-Recorded Testing for Student Self-Assessment: A randomized crossover study.
Biorn CM, Williams R, Harmon C … +1 more , Simpson C
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022553
Graduates of dental hygiene programs must acquire competence in critical reasoning by developing proficiency in self-assessment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of video-recorded testing co...
Graduates of dental hygiene programs must acquire competence in critical reasoning by developing proficiency in self-assessment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of video-recorded testing compared to direct observation testing on student self-assessment scores, self-assessment accuracy and student retest scores, and to ascertain which modality was preferred by faculty and students. A randomized crossover AB/BA research design evaluated video-recorded testing compared to traditional, direct observation testing. First year dental hygiene students (n=33) were randomly assigned to an AB or BA sequence for preclinical instrumentation skills testing and were evaluated by faculty (n=13). Student self-assessment test scores, faculty test scores, student accuracy scores, and student/faculty surveys were evaluated. Descriptive statistics and parametric independent samples t-tests (<0.05) were used to analyze the data. Mean student self-assessment scores were slightly higher with video testing (93.64%) than with direct observation testing (91.98%). Retest scores were similar between the two testing modalities (video 90.74%; direct observation 93.86%). Mean student accuracy scores were nearly equal with the two modalities (video 93.24%; direct observation 93.1%). There were no statistically significant differences in student accuracy, retest, and self-assessment scores for instrumentation skills testing when comparing the modalities. A majority of students (80%) preferred video testing while all faculty members preferred the direct observation testing modality. Students preferred video testing for self-assessment compared to direct observational testing, noting the increased ability to identify and correct mistakes. Faculty acknowledged video-recorded evaluation methods as advantageous in enhancing student self-assessment skills. However, faculty preferred direct observation testing, stating it allowed for a more thorough evaluation of skills. Additional research is needed using high-quality video equipment and longitudinal studies.
Workplace Bullying and Turnover Intention Among Dental Hygienists: Mediation roles of stress and social support.
Wedding K, Boyd LD, Petit JN … +1 more , Vineyard J
J Dent Hyg · 2025 Oct · PMID 41022552
Workplace bullying is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior that negatively impacts an employee's well-being. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of workplace bullying (WPB) among dental hygienists...
Workplace bullying is defined as a pattern of abusive behavior that negatively impacts an employee's well-being. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of workplace bullying (WPB) among dental hygienists (DHs) and mediation/moderation relationships between stress, social support, and turnover intention. Cross-sectional survey research was used with a convenience sample of DHs providing direct patient care (n=378). The validated Negative Acts Questionnaire - Revised (NAQ-R), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Turnover Intention Scale (TIS) instruments were used for the 62 item electronic survey. Analysis included descriptive, correlation, and mediation/moderation statistics. Survey completion was 55% (n=209); 56% of respondents reported experiencing workplace bullying. Stress significantly mediated the relationship between both work-related bullying (WRB) and person-related bullying (PRB) with turnover intention. For WRB, significant paths included: WRB to stress (B=.52, <.001), stress to turnover intention (B=.23, <.001), and WRB directly to turnover intention (B=.58, <.001), with an indirect effect of (B=-.265, <.001). Similarly, for PRB: PRB to stress (B=.44, <.001), stress to turnover intention (B=.29, <.001), and PRB directly to turnover intention (B=.55, <.001), with an indirect effect of (B=-.244, <.001). Supportive relationships showed no moderating effect on the relationship between WPB and turnover intention. Workplace bullying increased stress which also increased the intention to leave a job. Management staff in dental settings must work to prevent and manage WPB to reduce stress and retain DHs.
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