In the Office and at Home

Another fall is upon us. With children back in school and life getting busier for many of us, emphasizing the importance of oral health is as critical as ever. Dental hygienists can make a major impact via clinical treatment. For example, our continuing education article this issue outlines methods for identifying and treating xerostomia, a condition that can affect both oral and overall health. Perhaps an even greater impact can be made via recommendations for home care. As manufacturers continue to provide an abundance of innovative products for use at home, the dental hygienist must supplement those offerings with strong communication about home care routines and appropriate products and regimens. Each patient is unique, and the "Excellent Home Care Patient," as referenced by Stephanie A. Pajot, RDH, BS, in this issue's cover story, is relatively rare. Working effectively with the more flawed home care patients is a dental hygienist's time to shine.