The scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the dentin surface of diseased teeth subjected to two methods of conditioning with tetracycline hydrochloride (TTC) for 1 and 4 minutes respectively. Five groups of twelve specimens each received root planing (control); were immersed in TTC for 1 and 4 minutes; and burnished in TTC for 1 and 4 minutes. Control specimens exhibited an amorphous irregular surface smear layer. TTC, irrespective of the method used, was effective in removing the smear layer. Immersion in TTC for 1 minute revealed obstructed dentinal tubules, while burnishing for 1 minute revealed the presence of collagen fibrils. The 4-minute application of TTC, irrespective of the conditioning method used, showed wide exposed dentinal tubules. No significant difference between Groups III, I V, and V was noted (p>0.05).

Bad breath (oral malodor, halitosis) can be detrimental to one's self-image and confidence causing social, emotional, and psychological anxiety. With the majority of breath problems having an oral origin, the dental office is the most logical place for patients to seek treatment. When patients look to dental professionals for expert advice, it is critical they have the knowledge base and communication techniques to provide quality clinical assessment and implement effective intervention programs. Moreover, dental professionals should feel comfortable proactively counseling patients about oralmalodor without fear of offending the patient. Numerous continuing education programs and journalarticles related to the diagnosis and treatment of oral malodor are available. In addition, electronic sources are accessible for dental professionals to expand their knowledge base regarding oral malodor information. Fewer resources are available, however, regarding techniques to facilitate an effective dialogue with patients on this sensitive issue. This article seeks to provide such information and to helpprofessionals tailor the target communication message to meet the specific needs of individual patients.

As dental professionals become increasingly aware of the association between systemic and oral health, the importance of addressing systemic nutrition issues takes on a new urgency. Nutrition is one of the modifiable factors that impact the host's immune response and the integrity of the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity. While nutrient deficiencies are rare in the general population of the United States, there are patient populations at high risk for nutritional inadequacies. Many of these medically compromised people are seen in dental practices on a daily basis. This article will also offer some basic recommendations for nutrition counseling.

E-mail is an increasingly common way to share information within business communities and the general population. This technology can significantly affect the process of and expectations for communications between the clinician and the patient. The unique characteristics and attributes of computer-based communications can ultimately enhance outcomes for patient well-being if the clinician is informed, proactive, and avoids certain potential pitfalls related to the technology and its inclusion within the pattern of care.

In this article the author considers the impact of E-mail on personal and professional life and includes ideas the reader may find of value in managing and orchestrating this new dimension for communications.

Bleeding is a common sequela of periodontal and oral surgery. Generally, bleeding is self-limiting. Special circumstances require additional procedures to reduce or eliminate active hemorrhage. Occasionally hemorrhage can be under control when a patient is dismissed from their surgical appointment and, subsequently, the patient will experience either slow seepage of blood or extravascular clot formation. This case report describes the unique formation of a “liver clot” or “currant jelly clot” following periodontal plastic surgery. The clotting cascade and common laboratory tests to evaluate bleeding disorders are also presented.

Herbs have been in use for centuries to prevent and control disease. In recent history demand by the public for herbal supplements has created a multimillion-dollar industry. Herbal extracts are effective because they interact with specific chemical receptors within the body and are in a pharmacodynamic sense, drugs themselves.

A matter for public concern is that herbal supplements are currently independent of regulation by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA considers herbal products to be dietary supplements, not drugs. The National Toxicology Program has recently started to examine the composition and standardization of commercial preparations to identify potential health hazards from contaminants or product over use. Many herbal preparations have significant pharmacological effects. The problem that arises for the dental professional is the effect these products have in concert with prescription medications as well as effects on the patient's general response to medication and dental treatment. Drug interactions with the large number of commercially available herbal products can be grouped by the mechanism of most common interactions. These major types of reactions are: (1) alteration of drug metabolizing enzyme activity, (2) interactions with the blood clotting process, and (3) alteration of the inflammatory and immune response.

The widespread use of herbal supplements makes it essential that healthcare providers become informed about this aspect of a patient's personal health practices.

Personal success is more likely to occur if individuals establish a concise action plan for achieving their goals. The action plan needs to be in writing, and it should include specific goals, success values, the tasks required to reach the goals, and the intended dates of completion of each task and goal. Goal setting can be accomplished through mental visualization of the goal. A method for creating an action plan is presented in this article.