Local-anaesthetic-related nerve damage

Renton T, Janjua H, Gallagher JE et al (2013) UK dentists’ experience of iatrogenic trigeminal nerve injuries in relation to routine dental procedures: why, when and how often? Br Dent J12: 633-42

Motivating the patient following periodontal therapy

There are a number of complex reasons as to why some patients are unable to comply with instructions or recommendations provided by a dental care professional (DCP). It is therefore important for the DCP to address these issues in order to effectively treat chronic conditions such as periodontal dis

Cystic fibrosis in paediatric dental patients

Cystic fibrosis is a common genetic disorder and presents challenges to the dental team. This article reviews the necessary considerations for the successful management of paediatric dental patients with cystic fibrosis

Care of implants to ensure their long-term success

Dental implants are increasingly being used in a variety of restorative treatments. Good oral home care is critical to their long-term survival, so dental care professionals need to know how to advise patients on cleaning regimens and dental hygiene aids

Electronic cigarettes: a safe alternative?

Electronic cigarettes have recently been in the news with the suggestion that they are a safer alternative to tobacco smoking. Graham Cope, from the University of Birmingham, investigates

Oral health and nutrition guidance for patients

It is essential that dental care professionals educate patients on the effects of diet on oral health. Diet plays an important role in the development of caries, erosion, periodontal disease and oral pathologies. Key messages for patients and methods for assessing nutritional status are discussed

Stop your patients getting worn down

Judith Husband issues a rallying call for the BDA's new ‘Make a Meal of It’ campaign, which seeks to tackle the harm caused to children's dental health by between-meals snacking on sugary and acidic food and drink

Asthma and congenital heart defects in children

Many medical conditions affect children's oral health and the provision of dental care. This article describes two common medical conditions, their implications for oral health and their relevance to dental teams

Digital dental photography for the dental nurse

This article aims to introduce the dental nurse to the specific relevance of digital photography in general dental practice by improving their understanding of achieving quality images, therefore maximising their potential in taking clinical photographs or assisting the clinician

Safety and protection when using ionising radiation

Dental care professionals and their patients need to be protected from the harmful effects of ionising radiation. By interpreting and applying the laws and regulations that govern radiation, staff can minimise exposure and therefore risk

Dental health and the ageing population

Oral health is an important but often overlooked aspect of an older adult's general health. Daily oral hygiene, ability to access routine professional oral health services, and oral health education are all key factors that can improve the oral health of older people

Understanding patients with Parkinson's disease

The nature of Parkinson's disease, and some of the medication used to treat the condition, may mean that some patients will experience some oral health problems. The article explores the problems, looks at why they happen, and what can be done to help

Supporting dental therapists in practice

Using evidence to support oral health in children

Good oral health is part of good general health. Dental professionals can draw on evidence and epidemiological data and work with other professionals involved with children to plan and provide care and establish good oral care habits

Essential dental radiographs with minimum exposure

In light of the risks from ionising radiation to patients and staff, this article outlines the clinical conditions when radiographs are essential. The optimum images for the various problems are described along with practical information on imaging and records. Details of courses available to gain t