illustration of oral microbiome in the mouth

Unveiling the Hidden World of Oral Microbes: Understanding Microbial Dark Matter in Dental Health

Practice 32 December 17, 2025 No Comments

Understanding the hidden world of "microbial dark matter" within the oral microbiome is essential for maintaining dental health, as this uncharacterized microbial community plays a vital role in digestion, immune…

A smiling individual holding a toothbrush, radiating positivity and good oral health.

Embracing the New Year with Gratitude: A Path to Enhanced Dental Health

Practice 32 December 15, 2025 No Comments

Starting the New Year with gratitude can boost your overall well-being and improve your oral health. At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, we emphasize how mindfulness and gratitude can encourage…

Anatomy of the palatal nerve and artery contributions to maxillary teeth

Understanding the Palatal Nerve and Artery Supply to Maxillary Teeth: Implications for Dental Hygiene

Practice 32 December 12, 2025 No Comments

Recent research has revealed new details about the palatal nerves and arteries in the maxillary teeth, showing their direct role in tooth innervation and vascularization. For dental hygienists, understanding this…

A dental professional washing hands with soap and running water

Hand Hygiene in Dental Care: The Limitations of Alcohol-Based Sanitizers Against Non-Enveloped Viruses

Practice 32 December 10, 2025 No Comments

Hand hygiene is vital in preventing infections within dental care, especially as alcohol-based sanitizers show limited effectiveness against resilient non-enveloped viruses like HPV, norovirus, and rotavirus. While these sanitizers work…

Dental hygienist examining a patient's oral cavity for signs of lupus.

Recognizing and Managing Oral Signs of Lupus: A Guide for Dental Hygienists

Practice 32 December 8, 2025 No Comments

Lupus erythematosus (LE) is a complex autoimmune condition that can manifest through oral symptoms such as ulcers, xerostomia, and discoid lesions. Dental hygienists play a vital role in early detection,…

The Link Between Gum Health and Stroke: What You Need to Know

Practice 32 December 5, 2025 No Comments

Maintaining good gum health is crucial not just for oral hygiene but also for reducing the risk of systemic issues like stroke, as recent studies highlight a link between periodontal…

A smiling dental hygienist providing care to a patient.

Enhancing Oral Health Care for Low-Income Communities: Insights and Strategies

Practice 32 December 3, 2025 No Comments

Access to quality dental care presents significant challenges for low-income communities due to financial constraints, lack of insurance, transportation barriers, and limited oral health literacy. At Practice 32 in Colorado…

caviar and strawberry tongue as signs of vascular diseases

Recognizing Oral Signs of Vascular Diseases: A Guide for Dental Health

Practice 32 December 1, 2025 No Comments

Maintaining oral health is essential for identifying potential systemic issues, such as vascular diseases, which can manifest through signs like caviar or strawberry tongue, oral lesions, and gum bleeding. At…

Silver Diamine Fluoride application on tooth for cavity prevention

Silver Diamine Fluoride: A Promising Alternative to Dental Sealants for Cavity Prevention

Practice 32 November 28, 2025 No Comments

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is emerging as a highly effective, non-invasive, and cost-efficient alternative to traditional dental sealants for cavity prevention, particularly beneficial for underserved communities. A recent study demonstrates…

A dental hygienist providing preventive care to a patient.

Ensuring Access to Advanced Dental Hygiene Education: Addressing Financial Barriers

Practice 32 November 26, 2025 No Comments

Financial barriers, including recent changes in federal loan policies, are limiting access to advanced dental hygiene education, which is critical for maintaining high standards of preventive care. Advanced training equips…

Dental hygienist providing free oral health check-up during a volunteer event.

Enhancing Oral Health Through Community Engagement: The Power of Dental Volunteerism

Practice 32 November 24, 2025 No Comments

Dental volunteerism at Practice 32 in Colorado Springs promotes preventive dental care while addressing oral health disparities, strengthening community connections, and enriching the professional growth of dental hygienists through local…

A dental hygienist providing a fluoride treatment to an older adult patient.

Integrating Oral Health into Cancer Care for Older Adults: A Vital Component of Comprehensive Treatment

Practice 32 November 21, 2025 No Comments

Maintaining oral health is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care for older adults, especially as cancer treatments can exacerbate oral health issues like dry mouth, mucositis, and infections. At…

Dental professional providing hygiene care to a child.

Addressing Dental Caries Disparities Among Racially Minoritized Children: A Call to Action

Practice 32 November 14, 2025 No Comments

Dental caries disproportionately affect racially minoritized children due to limited access to fluoridated water, financial barriers, and scarce dental services. Practice 32 in Colorado Springs provides preventive care, oral hygiene…

A person holding a toothbrush, symbolizing self-care amid grief during the holidays.

Supporting Your Oral Health During the Holidays: Navigating Grief and Dental Care

Practice 32 November 12, 2025 No Comments

Grieving during the holidays can disrupt oral hygiene routines, but maintaining dental care is essential for overall well-being. Emotional stress may lead to neglecting daily habits, increasing the risk of…

A nutritious meal with seeds, grains, and fresh vegetables prepared for dental hygienists.

Nourishing Your Smile: Healthy Eating Tips for Dental Hygienists

Practice 32 November 10, 2025 No Comments

Focusing on balanced nutrition and hydration is essential for dental hygienists to maintain their energy, stamina, and overall health while providing excellent care. Incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients like chia, hemp, and…

Dental care and diabetes management concept

Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Delayed Dental Care: A Call to Action

Practice 32 November 7, 2025 No Comments

Diabetes significantly impacts oral health, increasing the risk of periodontal disease and complicating diabetes management, yet financial barriers often lead many to delay necessary dental care. This postponement can cause…

Smiling woman brushing her teeth in front of a mirror.

Understanding Halitosis and Taste Alterations: A Guide to Oral Health

Practice 32 November 5, 2025 No Comments

Halitosis (bad breath) and taste alterations are common issues that may signal underlying oral health concerns such as gum disease, dry mouth, or poor hygiene. Practice 32 in Colorado Springs…

Dental hygienist educating a patient about tobacco cessation

Empowering Your Oral Health: The Role of Dental Hygienists in Tobacco and Nicotine Cessation

Practice 32 November 3, 2025 No Comments

Dental hygienists at Practice 32 in Colorado Springs play a crucial role in supporting tobacco and nicotine cessation through education, personalized counseling, behavioral interventions, and ongoing support, helping patients improve…

A smiling patient with healthy teeth at a dental practice.

Nonopioid Analgesics: A Safer and Effective Choice for Managing Dental Pain

Practice 32 October 31, 2025 No Comments

Nonopioid analgesics, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, offer a safe and effective alternative for managing dental pain, reducing dependency risks and side effects compared to opioids; at Practice 32 in…

Dental hygienist using AI-powered tools for diagnostics

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Elevate Dental Hygiene Care

Practice 32 October 29, 2025 No Comments

AI is transforming the field of dental hygiene by enhancing diagnostics, patient education, and preventive care. At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, advanced tools like AI algorithms and imaging systems…

A smiling dental hygienist educating a patient on oral hygiene practices

Empowering Dental Hygienists: The Impact of Language on Professional Identity

Practice 32 October 27, 2025 No Comments

At Practice 32, a hygiene-only dental practice in Colorado Springs, the importance of language in shaping the professional identity of dental hygienists is emphasized. By using respectful and empowering language,…

Pregnant woman visiting a dental hygienist for a check-up.

Debunking Myths: The Importance of Dental Care During Pregnancy

Practice 32 October 24, 2025 No Comments

Maintaining oral health during pregnancy is essential for both mother and baby, and at Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, we aim to debunk myths and provide safe, preventive care, including…

Dental tools beside a healthy set of teeth, symbolizing oral hygiene and healthcare.

Understanding Cephalic and Dental Origin Tetanus: A Guide for Dental Patients

Practice 32 October 22, 2025 No Comments

Tetanus, a serious bacterial infection, can also originate from dental procedures or oral injuries, highlighting the importance of preventive dental care. Practice 32 in Colorado Springs offers vital hygiene services…

A serene dental office environment promoting self-care.

Embracing Deep Self-Care: A Path to Enhanced Dental Hygiene and Overall Well-being

Practice 32 October 21, 2025 No Comments

Deep self-care goes beyond surface-level comfort to address physical, emotional, and psychological needs, fostering long-term well-being and growth. At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, embracing deep self-care empowers individuals to…

Mandibular Advancement Device and its impact on gum health.

Understanding the Impact of Sleep Apnea Oral Appliances on Gum Health

Practice 32 October 17, 2025 No Comments

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) offer a non-invasive solution for managing obstructive sleep apnea, particularly for those unable to tolerate CPAP therapy, but their prolonged use may affect gum health, causing…

Dental hygienist using ergonomic tools during a procedure

Enhancing Your Dental Hygiene Career: Four Key Investments for Longevity

Practice 32 October 15, 2025 No Comments

Investing in physical health, ergonomic tools, continuing education, and emotional well-being can help dental hygienists enhance career longevity, prevent burnout, and maintain the ability to provide exceptional patient care.

Dental hygienist providing teeth cleaning

Celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month: Honoring Our Hygienists and Promoting Oral Health

Practice 32 October 13, 2025 No Comments

October, National Dental Hygiene Month, is a time to celebrate the vital role of dental hygienists in oral health and to raise awareness about preventive dental care. At Colorado Springs'…

A dental hygienist educating a patient about oral health.

Upholding Excellence in Dental Hygiene: The Importance of Rigorous Educational Standards

Practice 32 October 10, 2025 No Comments

At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, we emphasize the importance of rigorous education for dental hygienists to provide safe, effective preventive care, with a focus on hygiene education, gum therapy,…

Close-up of a person rinsing their mouth with mouthwash in the bathroom.

Understanding Periodontal Disease Risk Factors and the Role of Mouthrinse in Prevention

Practice 32 October 8, 2025 No Comments

Periodontal disease, a condition ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis, can impact oral health significantly if untreated. At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, we focus on preventive dental care…

Dental hygienist providing care to a patient in a Colorado Springs clinic.

Balancing Ethics and Incentives: A Closer Look at Bonus Structures in Dental Hygiene

Practice 32 October 6, 2025 No Comments

Incentive programs in dental hygiene can improve productivity and patient care, but they also raise ethical concerns such as prioritizing financial incentives over patient needs. At Practice 32, a hygiene-only…

A dentist demonstrating proper toothbrushing technique to a patient

Enhancing Heart Health Through Improved Oral Hygiene: The Critical Connection

Practice 32 October 3, 2025 No Comments

Poor oral hygiene has been shown to contribute to cardiovascular disease (CVD), highlighting the critical connection between oral and heart health. Studies reveal that improving dental care, including toothbrushing and…

Dental care scene showcasing a clean and inviting dental office with dental tools.

ADHA’s Governance Transformation: What It Means for Dental Hygienists

Practice 32 October 2, 2025 No Comments

The American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) has transformed its governance structure to enhance member engagement, improve policy response time, and foster leadership development, providing dental hygienists with more inclusive opportunities…

Modern dental instruments in a clean dental office

The Evolution of Dental Hygiene: A Journey Through Time

Practice 32 October 1, 2025 No Comments

The history of dental hygiene showcases its transformation from rudimentary care to a vital, preventive aspect of modern dentistry. Beginning with Dr. Alfred Fones and the first dental hygienist, Irene…

Dental tools in a clean hospital setting

Integrating Dental Hygiene into Hospital Settings: Enhancing Patient Care and Preventive Health

Practice 32 September 29, 2025 No Comments

Integrating dental hygiene services into hospital settings enhances patient care by addressing the connection between oral and overall health, reducing hospital-acquired infections like pneumonia, and improving recovery rates. Dental hygienists…

Bright dental clinic with focus on child-sized dental chair and educational materials.

The Crucial Role of Vitamin D in Children’s Dental Health: Insights and Recommendations

Practice 32 September 26, 2025 No Comments

Vitamin D is essential for children’s oral health, supporting tooth development, strengthening enamel, and combating bacteria that cause cavities. Deficiencies in vitamin D can lead to enamel defects, increased susceptibility…

Close-up of a dental X-ray machine in a modern clean dental office

Addressing Patient Concerns About Dental Radiographs: Ensuring Informed Decisions for Optimal Oral Health

Practice 32 September 24, 2025 No Comments

At Practice 32, we prioritize patient education and comfort when addressing concerns about dental radiographs. These essential tools help detect issues like decay, gum disease, and infections early, enabling timely…

Dental products with fluoride on a clean countertop

Understanding the FDA’s Proposed Removal of Fluoride Prescription Drugs: Implications for Dental Hygiene

Practice 32 September 22, 2025 No Comments

The FDA's proposed removal of unapproved fluoride prescription drugs highlights the importance of using regulated, FDA-approved products for safe and effective dental care. Dental practices may need to reassess their…

A family-friendly dental office with educational materials on oral hygiene displayed.

Empowering Parents: Enhancing Children’s Oral Health Through Improved Oral Health Literacy

Practice 32 September 19, 2025 No Comments

Empowering parents with oral health literacy fosters healthier smiles for their children by equipping them to establish strong oral hygiene routines, make informed dietary choices, and recognize signs of dental…

Protective gear and dental hygiene equipment in a clean dental setting

Understanding Fentanyl Exposure: Implications for Dental Professionals

Practice 32 September 17, 2025 No Comments

At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, we address the potential risks of fentanyl exposure in dental settings, emphasizing patient and staff safety. Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, poses minimal but…

A cozy dental office with educational materials in Spanish and English on the counter

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Oral Health Equity for Hispanic Communities in Colorado Springs

Practice 32 September 15, 2025 No Comments

Practice 32, a hygiene-only dental practice in Colorado Springs, is dedicated to enhancing oral health equity for the Hispanic community by addressing barriers such as limited access to care, language,…

Dental diagram showing stages of tooth development

The Impact of Maternal Smoking During Pregnancy on Children’s Dental Development

Practice 32 September 12, 2025 No Comments

Maternal smoking during pregnancy may impact children's dental development in various ways, including enamel defects, missing teeth, and delayed tooth eruption, though research findings remain inconclusive. Factors like nicotine exposure,…

Dental hygienist explaining oral health using a dental chart

Empowering Dental Hygienists: The Importance of Clear and Confident Patient Communication

Practice 32 September 10, 2025 No Comments

Clear communication by dental hygienists is essential for effective preventive care. At Practice 32, we emphasize the importance of avoiding minimizing language and using precise, direct terms to educate patients…

A modern dental hygiene room with safety equipment and training materials.

Enhancing Dental Safety: Modernizing OSHA Training for Today’s Practices

Practice 32 September 8, 2025 No Comments

Modernizing OSHA training at Practice 32, a hygiene-only dental practice in Colorado Springs, ensures safety for patients and staff by addressing the limitations of traditional methods. Tailored to preventive care…

Dental tools on a tray in a clean dental office

The Link Between Periodontitis, Systemic Inflammation, and Mortality Risk: What You Need to Know

Practice 32 September 5, 2025 No Comments

Periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory gum condition, has significant systemic health implications, including increased risks of systemic inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. Research highlights the interconnectedness of oral health and overall…

Modern dental office with clean equipment and organized workspace

Managing Delays: How Practice 32 Ensures Quality Care Even When Running Behind

Practice 32 September 3, 2025 No Comments

At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, our commitment to quality dental hygiene care ensures we effectively manage delays while maintaining patient satisfaction. We proactively communicate with patients about wait times,…

Close-up of dental tools and a water glass on a counter

Understanding Saliva and Salivary Glands: Their Role in Oral Health

Practice 32 September 1, 2025 No Comments

✨ 1. BLOG SUMMARY (PLAIN TEXT) Saliva is vital for oral health, performing functions like lubrication, taste perception, digestion, antimicrobial action, and oral cleansing. Produced by major and minor salivary…

Dental cleaning tools and orthodontic braces concept scene

Protecting Your Smile: Preventing Early Tooth Decay During Orthodontic Treatment

Practice 32 August 29, 2025 No Comments

✨ 1. BLOG SUMMARY (PLAIN TEXT) Orthodontic treatment for a straighter smile can increase the risk of early tooth decay, especially around braces. To prevent initial carious lesions, diligent oral…

Close-up of human skull structure and dental anatomy

Understanding the Evolution of the Human Skull and Its Impact on Dental Health

Practice 32 August 27, 2025 No Comments

Understanding the evolution of the human skull provides insight into modern dental health challenges, such as tooth crowding, impacted wisdom teeth, and susceptibility to cavities. Changes in jaw size, facial…

A neatly organized study desk with textbooks and a dental anatomy model

5 Essential Tips for Excelling in Dental Hygiene School

Practice 32 August 25, 2025 No Comments

✨ 1. BLOG SUMMARY (PLAIN TEXT) Excelling in dental hygiene school requires proactive time management, understanding subject interconnections, fostering collaborative relationships with peers, seeking guidance from instructors, and embracing challenges…

Dental tools and equipment in a clean clinic

Enhancing Maternal and Infant Health: The Critical Role of Dental Hygiene During Pregnancy

Practice 32 August 22, 2025 No Comments

✨ 1. BLOG SUMMARY (PLAIN TEXT) Maintaining oral health during pregnancy is essential for both maternal and infant health. At Practice 32, we emphasize preventive dental care, as poor oral…

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