Dedicated Dental Hygiene - Blog , CE

Dental Hygiene Laser Use in Georgia: What You Need to Know

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 11:07:20 -0600

Dental Hygiene Laser Use in Georgia: What You Need to Know

As dental technology advances, more states are recognizing the benefits of laser use in dental hygiene. Dental lasers offer minimally invasive treatment options, improved patient comfort, and enhanced clinical outcomes. However, the regulations surrounding their use vary by state. If you're a dental hygienist in Georgia or considering practicing there, understanding the state's stance on laser use in dental hygiene is crucial.

The Role of Lasers in Dental Hygiene Lasers are used in dental hygiene for various procedures, including:

Bacterial reduction in periodontal therapy

Non-surgical periodontal treatment

Desensitization of teeth

Pain management

Soft tissue procedures such as gingival contouring

These benefits make lasers a valuable tool in modern dental hygiene, improving patient experiences and treatment outcomes.

Georgia’s Regulations on Laser Use by Dental Hygienists

Georgia';s dental board governs the scope of practice for dental hygienists, including the use of lasers. Currently, dental hygienists in Georgia are permitted to use lasers under certain conditions, but restrictions apply. The Georgia Board of Dentistry stipulates that dental hygienists may use lasers as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) but cannot perform procedures that require cutting or altering tissue. Additionally, laser use must be within the supervising dentist’s scope of practice and must comply with state regulations regarding

supervision.

Rule 150-5-.08: Use of a Dental Diode Laser by a Dental Hygienist

According to Georgia Rule 150-5-.08, dental hygienists may use a dental diode laser under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, limited to bacterial reduction and disinfection of the

gingival sulcus. The rule specifically prohibits the removal of hard and soft tissue, except for incidental gingival curettage. To ensure compliance, hygienists must meet the following

requirements:

Complete a minimum of 8 hours of interactive didactic and clinical laser training, including laser safety, infection control, patient management, and laser operation.

Training must be obtained through accredited organizations such as the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, the ADA Continuing Education Recognition Program, or the Academy of General Dentistry Program Approval for Continuing Education.

Maintain evidence of required training, prominently displayed at the dental office.

Complete two (2) hours of continuing education in dental diode lasers every two (2) years.

Adhere to accepted laser safety guidelines.

Document key details in the patient's record, including the type of laser, wavelength, settings used, local anesthesia applied (if any), and the procedure performed.

Training and Certification for Laser Use in Georgia

To ensure safe and effective laser use, dental hygienists must complete proper training. While Georgia mandates specific training for diode laser use, many dental offices require additional

training to ensure competency and adherence to best practices. Courses such as Dedicated Dental Hygiene’s (DDH) laser training provide hands-on experience and remote learning options

to help hygienists gain proficiency in laser procedures.

Key components of a comprehensive laser training program include:

Understanding laser physics and safety

Proper laser technique for bacterial reduction and therapy

Compliance with Georgia’s dental regulations

Hands-on application of laser procedures

The Future of Laser Use in Georgia

The increasing adoption of laser technology in dentistry suggests that more states may revise regulations to expand dental hygienists' scope of practice. Advocacy efforts by professional

organizations, along with continued education and training, can help shape future policies that allow greater utilization of lasers in dental hygiene.

For Georgia dental hygienists, staying informed about regulations and obtaining proper training is essential for incorporating laser therapy into practice. By doing so, hygienists can enhance

patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and stay ahead in an evolving field.

Are you a Georgia dental hygienist interested in laser certification? Check out our laser training programs at Dedicated Dental Hygiene (DDH) to elevate your clinical skills and expand your professional opportunities!

Bridging Languages, Advancing Skills: Meet Our Instructors for Dedicated Dental Hygiene

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 11:07:20 -0600

At Dedicated Dental Hygiene, we pride ourselves not only on providing top-tier laser training for dental hygiene professionals but also on the expertise and diversity of our instructors. Our team of educators brings a wealth of knowledge from different backgrounds, and we are proud to offer our training in multiple languages, including Spanish, Greek, Polish, and English. With their rich professional experience and unique cultural perspectives, our instructors are passionate about helping dental teams succeed in the rapidly evolving field of laser dentistry.

Meet Our Dedicated Instructors

Maira Velasco –Spanish Speaker & Translation Expert

Maira Velasco was born and raised in rural Nevada on an alfalfa farm, growing up in a Spanish-speaking household. From an early age, Maira honed her skills in translation, which soon led her to opportunities that allowed her to bridge language gaps. One such opportunity took her to a local dental office, where she was introduced to dental vocabulary, sparking her interest in the dental world. With her deep understanding of both language and the dental industry, Maira ensures that Spanish-speaking dental professionals can comfortably master the latest laser techniques and technology.

Elzbieta Solimeno – Polish Speaker & Dental Professional

Originally from Poland, Elzbieta Solimeno now resides in Massachusetts, where she continues to contribute to the dental field. Fluent in Polish, Elzbieta is an invaluable asset to our team, offering laser training in her native language. Her diverse background in the dental field allows her to explain complex concepts in a clear, relatable manner, ensuring that Polish-speaking dental professionals can gain a deep understanding of laser applications. Elzbieta’s compassionate approach to teaching and her expertise in dental hygiene create an ideal learning environment for students.

Christine DeKosta – Greek Speaker & Dental Hygiene Specialist

Christine DeKosta is a seasoned dental hygienist with years of experience in laser dentistry. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and an Associate’s in Dental Hygiene, blending her strong educational background with a passion for empowering dental professionals. Fluent in Greek, Christine is able to effectively communicate and present laser techniques to Greek-speaking dental teams, making her a go-to instructor for this community. Christine’s practical experience and hands-on approach to teaching ensure that students receive valuable, real-world insights into laser applications, all while making complex ideas easier to understand.

Why Language Matters in Dental Laser Training

Offering laser training in multiple languages is essential in breaking down barriers and making this advanced dental technology accessible to a wider range of professionals. Our instructors’ linguistic expertise allows us to cater to dental teams across diverse communities, ensuring that language is never a barrier to gaining the skills needed to excel in laser dentistry. Whether you’re a Spanish, Greek, Polish, or English speaker, you can count on receiving high-quality training that meets your needs and enables you to deliver the best care to your patients.

Join Us at a Dedicated Dental Hygiene Laser Training

Are you ready to take your dental hygiene career to the next level with cutting-edge laser training? Reach out to us today to start your laser training journey, and experience the difference that personalized, multilingual instruction can make.

In-Person CE Event in Texas: Muffins and Mimosas

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:06:00 -0600

As we get back to in-person learning events, there is buzz and excitement in the air about coming back together. It is time we join each other once again in community for connection and networking. Dedicated Dental Hygiene is a frontrunner in providing, not only exceptional laser courses, but high-quality CE events.

Join us, this April, for an exciting day of continuing education:

Saturday Sessions: Muffins, Mimosas, & Dental CE
Saturday, April 30, 2022
8:00 am-2:00 pm registration begins at 7:30
Event1013
1013 15th Street
Plano, Texas 75087
6 CEUs for dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants
Registration link:
https://square.link/u/tAy0yfCE

Saturday Sessions: Muffins, Mimosas, & Dental CE is an event that will immerse attendees in a learning environment designed to inspire, encourage, and support dental professionals to improve patient care and enhance provider experience.

Dedicated to personal and professional growth, Saturday Sessions features AGD PACE approved continuing education content that motivates clinicians to implement exceptional patient care.

Saturday Sessions is dedicated to quality experience that offers each attendee networking, quality CE, vendor experiences, and fun in a beautiful and comfortable environment.

Event1013 is a well-loved venue in the heart of old-town Plano, Texas. It brings elegance while preserving the rustic feel of the historical district. Attendees will enjoy a light breakfast with mimosas or soft drinks, six hours of continuing education content, time with vendors, and networking with other professionals.

The April 2022 event will feature two speakers: Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC and Lisa Mallonee, MPH, RDH, RD, LD.

Kandice will present “In Plain Sight: Confronting the Human Trafficking Crisis in the Dental Setting.” Texas dental professionals are required to attend an approved human trafficking training every two years. This course is approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Committee on Human Trafficking. Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Dental Hygienist. She is a full-time dental hygiene educator in Texas. Kandice is the owner of Inspired Education & Wellness where she is a speaker, writer, and private practice therapist. She combines her clinical dental and mental health experience to help other healthcare professionals have a fulfilling work/life balance.

Lisa will discuss, “The Fattening of America: Where does Dentistry fit into the Puzzle?” Lisa F. Mallonee, MPH, RDH, RD, LD received a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and a Master of Public Health with a coordinated degree in nutrition from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Prior to becoming a Registered Dietitian, Lisa practiced full time as a Registered Dental Hygienist in both general and public health practice settings.

Join us for a lovely morning of learning. Questions to: or kandice@inspirededucationce.com or kristin@dedicateddentalhygiene.comor kristin@dedicateddentalhygiene.com

Continuing Education Courses for Registered Dental Hygienists

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:02:38 -0600

In addition to our popular dental laser training courses and dental consulting services, Dedicated Den-tal Hygiene is proud to offer continuing education specifically for hygienists and dentists. Our CEs courses are offered online, and we have a mix of both free and fee-based options. Staying current on what’s happening in the dental laser industry helps ensure you can provide the best, most up-to-date care to your patients. And our online continuing education courses for registered dental hygienists makes it easy. for registered dental hygienists makes it easy. And our online continuing education courses for registered dental hygienists makes it easy.

Dental Laser Continuing Education Courses

At this time, DDH is pleased to offer a round-up of seven CE courses that cover different aspects of the dental laser:

  This online presentation dives into laser bacterial reduction (LBR), including research, facts versus myth, a review of technique, and the distinction between laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT) and LBR. Register here.• Current Hygiene Terms & Technique, $20, 2CEU.This online presentation dives into laser bacterial reduction (LBR), including research, facts versus myth, a review of technique, and the distinction between laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT) and LBR. This free online module offers an over-view of the historical events leading to the invention of the first ruby laser, as well as a look at the physics behind lasers.

  • Innovative Technologies: A Review of Current Lasers, $20, 2CEU.• The History of Lasers and Physics, no cost, 2CEU. This free online module offers an over-view of the historical events leading to the invention of the first ruby laser, as well as a look at the physics behind lasers.
Register here.

This free online module offers an over-view of the historical events leading to the invention of the first ruby laser, as well as a look at the physics behind lasers.  This free online model reviews the various components of the dental laser involved in creating amplified light.
Register here.
• Laser Power & Density, no cost, 2CEU. This free online module covers laser power and density, and the application of both to patient care.     • Lasers Parts & Components, no cost, 2CEU.• Light Dynamics, no cost, 2CEU. DDH created this free online module specifically for those seeking to self-study. Clinicians will develop an understanding of laser versus ordinary light; the electromagnetic spectrum; and the different wavelengths in laser dentistry. Register here.

Safety is a critical component of laser dentistry, and DDH designed this course to ensure clinicians are clear on appropriate safety measures. This free online model reviews the various components of the dental laser involved in creating amplified light.                  This free online model reviews the various components of the dental laser involved in creating amplified light.  This free online module covers laser power and density, and the application of both to patient care. Register here.

Safety is a critical component of laser dentistry, and DDH designed this course to ensure clinicians are clear on appropriate safety measures.  DDH created this free online module specifically for those seeking to self-study. Clinicians will develop an understanding of laser versus ordinary light; the electromagnetic spectrum; and the different wavelengths in laser dentistry.  DDH created this free online module specifically for those seeking to self-study. Clinicians will develop an understanding of laser versus ordinary light; the electromagnetic spectrum; and the different wavelengths in laser dentistry. Register here.
       Safety is a critical component of laser dentistry, and DDH designed this course to ensure clinicians are clear on appropriate safety measures.  DDH created this free online module specifically for those seeking to self-study. Clinicians will develop an understanding of laser versus ordinary light; the electromagnetic spectrum; and the different wavelengths in laser dentistry. • Laser Safety, $20, 2CEU. Safety is a critical component of laser dentistry, and DDH designed this course to ensure clinicians are clear on appropriate safety measures. Register here.

DDH is committed to providing ongoing education and support that extends beyond our dental laser courses and in-office training. By offering these online CE courses, we’re helping clinicians across the country stay on the cutting edge of laser dentistry. Learn more about our CE courses here, and please reach outCE courses here, with any questions about our courses and classes.and please reach out with any questions about our courses and classes.

Dental Consulting & Continuing Education with DDH

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:02:12 -0600

You may be familiar with Dedicated Dental Hygiene for our comprehensive dental laser education courses and one-on-one practice consultations. But our commitment to continuing education extends far beyond your dental laser course or in-office training. Here’s what continuing education with DDH really means.Here’s what continuing education with DDH really means.Here’s what continuing education with DDH really means.Here’s what continuing education with DDH really means.

Navigating Dental Practice Challenges

There’s so much more to running a dental practice than caring for teeth. Patient acquisition, insurance reimbursements, marketing, the skyrocketing costs of running a business — these are all addition hurdles that must be cleared in order to run a successful practice. Adding dental laser technology shouldn’t be another headache, which is where dental consulting with DDH comes in.

Our programs, which include one and two-day training, are designed to strengthen any points of weakness in your dental practice. That may involve laser certification for your staff, implementing the use of the laser, hands-on training, and even front office staff coaching.

We’ve found high levels of success with implementing the dental laser into various practices with our in-person, hands-on approach. That means a trained, experienced trainer spending time in both the front and back office. Plus, our certification programs are designed to meet your state’s education standards. We can also provide through the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Each clinician will receive the credits necessary to meet state requirements for laser use, and these credits can also be applied towards your dental or dental hygiene license renewal. national certification through the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Each clinician will receive the credits necessary to meet state requirements for laser use, and these credits can also be applied towards your dental or dental hygiene license renewal. through the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Each clinician will receive the credits necessary to meet state requirements for laser use, and these credits can also be applied towards your dental or dental hygiene license renewal. through the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Each clinician will receive the credits necessary to meet state requirements for laser use, and these credits can also be applied towards your dental or dental hygiene license renewal. through the Academy of Laser Dentistry. Each clinician will receive the credits necessary to meet state requirements for laser use, and these credits can also be applied towards your dental or dental hygiene license renewal.

Learn more about our and remember that our custom packages mean we can create a program just for your practice. If you don’t see exactly what you need, just ask.continuing education programs, and remember that our custom packages mean we can create a program just for your practice. If you don’t see exactly what you need, just ask. and remember that our custom packages mean we can create a program just for your practice. If you don’t see exactly what you need, just ask. and remember that our custom packages mean we can create a program just for your practice. If you don’t see exactly what you need, just ask.

Dental Consulting Services

Our programs of support were designed to ensure our clients can continue staying productive after they complete our training courses. If that sounds like your dental practice, browse our They were specifically designed for dentists in need of increased production in the hygiene department, improved efficiency in the front office, more support for the back office team, and the implementation of dental lasers. now or today to create a customized plan. Let's get started! dental consulting programs now or today to create a customized plan. Let's get started!contact DDH now or contact DDHnow or today to create a customized plan. Let's get started! today to create a customized plan. Let's get started!

Covid Precautions During Dental Laser Training

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:00:01 -0600

While the pandemic has made life challenging for much of the last year, the new vaccines are giving us reason to hope for a return to normal at some point in 2021. In the meantime, planned classes and in-office training with Dedicated Dental Hygiene have and will continue to make accommodations to ensure our participants’ safety. Here are the covid precautions we’re taking during dental laser training.

Laser Dentistry Courses

Our dental laser certification courses, currently scheduled in Texas, Nevada and New Mexico, qualify as a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGM/MAGD credit. All courses meet laser education requirements in each state they’re scheduled.

Unlike the dental laser training offered by manufacturers, which tends to be a basic overview of their respective laser, a DDH course is a far more comprehensive approach to dental laser training as a whole. Participants can expect hands-on, over-the-shoulder training, along with comprehensive lectures and demonstrations to ensure proficiency on the laser. In light of current covid safety recommendations, our classes have been modified with the following:

• Appropriate social distancing. Attendees are spaced a minimum of six feet apart.
• Masks and PPE. All class participants are required to wear masks, and face shields, surgical gowns, and gloves are distributed for the practical portion of class.
• Hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer is provided for use throughout class.

In-Office Laser Dentistry Courses

In-office or on-site laser dentistry is a good choice for a dental practice looking to train as a team. Working in a familiar environment can put class participants at ease. Individual dental practices likely have their own systems and protocols in place for covid safety, and DDH will customize our training platform to accommodate them all.

In Texas, we’re also offering on-demand dental laser training that brings the dental laser training to you. Instead of waiting for a pre-scheduled course, on-demand training offers mutually planned classes that can be completed in just one day. This is a great option for clinicians who want to complete training with a small group, and all covid safety regulations and recommends are followed.

Learn More

Making accommodations for the pandemic is a necessary adjustment for us all, and DDH is fully committed to ensuring participant safety while getting back to business. Contact us today to learn more about our dental laser classes and covid precautions.

Dental Laser Certification Courses in California for RDH

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 09:59:31 -0600

At this time, California is one of the states that remains unclear about education for the dental laser. But as the popularity of the versatile dental laser continues to grow, certification itself is becoming a must-have, regardless of state guidelines. Dedicated Dental Hygiene has the comprehensive, hands-on If you’re a registered dental hygienist looking for dental laser certification courses in the state of California, and in-office training you need to get certified.Dedicated Dental Hygiene has the comprehensive, hands-on classes and in-office training you need to get certified. and in-office training you need to get certified.classes and in-office training you need to get certified.

According to the California State Dental Board

California business and professional code 1914 states a registered dental hygienist may use any material or device approved for use in the performance of a service or procedure within his or her scope of practice under the appropriate level of supervision, if he or she has the appropriate education and training required to use the material or device. However, the code does not define training and its preferred length. It’s left to the discretion of the RDH and dentist alike to complete appropriate training to safely and effectively use this powerful tool on patients.

DDH Courses

Dedicated Dental Hygiene is recognized as a nationally approved PACE program provider for FAGD/MAGD credit. By course completion, our participants can use the dental laser for Our courses are designed to ensure all participants develops proficiency with the dental laser through in depth lectures and extensive over-the-shoulder, hands-on training. and its use with a patient. different procedures and its use with a patient.knowledgeably discuss and promote and knowledgeably discuss and promoteand its use with a patient. its use with a patient.

We understand that unique dynamics are often at play in individual dental practices. To accommodate, DDH offers a customizable for a personalized approach. Your staff and practice will enjoy a specialized course designed just for you.training platform for a personalized approach. Your staff and practice will enjoy a specialized course designed just for you. for a personalized approach. Your staff and practice will enjoy a specialized course designed just for you. for a personalized approach. Your staff and practice will enjoy a specialized course designed just for you.

The Importance of Dental Laser Certification

While requirements vary from one state to the next, one thing remains true — any RDH or DDS using a dental laser must be comprehensively trained. The lack of a national standard means individual hygienists and dentists must not only understand their state’s requirements, but seek the best training to safely serve their patients.

In addition to the expertise dental laser certification affords, it puts you in an elite category of practitioners. It’s safe to assume that dental laser certification will become a national requirement at some point, and seeking certification now puts you ahead of the curve.

Investing in Your Future

Completing a comprehensive and quality dental laser certification course, like those offered here at DDH, is an investment in your future. The dental laser is a powerful and versatile tool, but inexperience and a lack of education on proper use is dangerous. If you’re an RDH or DDS in California, offer your patients the most well-rounded care by investing in your own education on the dental laser. Get started now with a course here at Dedicated Dental Hygiene. today to learn more about enrolling.Contact us today to learn more about enrolling. today to learn more about enrolling. today to learn more about enrolling.

Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club Expands Horizons in Houston

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:22:44 -0600

Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club Expands Horizons in Houston

Attention all dental professionals and enthusiasts! The Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club is on the move, and this time, we're bringing our passion for learning and networking to the vibrant city of Houston, Texas. As a fast-growing study club, we're excited to announce our expansion and the incredible opportunity to gather at The Woodlands Country Club on 1730 S Millbend Dr, Spring, TX 77380, United States, from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm.

What sets this event apart? Renowned speaker Anne O. Rice will be gracing us with her expertise, delving into crucial topics such as “Dementia and the Dental Impact” and “Shhh…Solving the Sleep Loss Epidemic.” With 4 Continuing Education (CE) credits up for grabs, this is an unmissable chance to enhance your knowledge and skills.

The setting couldn't be more perfect – The Woodlands Country Club provides a beautiful backdrop for a day filled with education and camaraderie. But it's not just about the lectures; we believe in making learning enjoyable. That's why we've curated a delightful breakfast spread and, yes, mimosas to kickstart your morning.

As if that's not enticing enough, we've lined up a variety of vendors and giveaways for you to explore. Special thanks to our sponsors – Biogaia, Curaden,KAD Dental Staffing, Haleon,Elevate Oral Care, and Thistle Wynd Productions– for their support in making this event possible.

Join us for a day of fun, networking, and invaluable insights. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your dental journey, the Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club in Houston promises an enriching experience. Secure your spot now for a day that seamlessly combines learning with enjoyment.

Moreover, the event is not limited to seasoned professionals alone – students and newcomers are encouraged to join. Our inclusive environment ensures that everyone, regardless of their experience level, will find inspiration and valuable takeaways. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in a day of learning, laughter, and discovery at the Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club in Houston. Secure your place now for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Texas!

Early birds catch the best deals! Secure your spot at the Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study Club in Houston by taking advantage of our early bird registration, priced at $89. Act fast, as this special rate will only be available until late January when it will increase to $119.

For any inquiries or assistance with registration, feel free to reach out to Kristin at kristinwithmm@gmail.com or Kandice at kandicewithmm@gmail.com. We're here to ensure your experience leading up to the event is as smooth as the discussions and interactions you'll enjoy on the day. Don't miss out on the opportunity to save while securing your place at this exceptional dental gathering! We can't wait to see you there!