Oral Health Matters

Understanding the Impact of Restrictive Frenulums

In this episode of Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers is joined by Dr. Thomas Chiodo for a conversation about ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie, and other restrictive frenulums. Dr. Chiodo explains how tongue-tie can affect tongue mobility and discusses the potential impact on infant feeding, including latch issues, poor suction, excess air intake, and related concerns such as bloating or reflux. The conversation also explores how restrictive frenulums may later influence speech development, oral function, and dental spacing. The episode walks through clinical evaluation approaches, including the use of assessment tools like the Tabby Bristol Tongue Tie Score and the Hazelbaker assessment, while emphasizing that some infants may naturally adapt or “grow into” their anatomy over time. Dr. Chiodo also reviews referral pathways, treatment options, procedural techniques, anesthesia considerations, and the importance of post-procedure stretching exercises to help prevent reattachment.   Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

Beyond the Surface: Addiction, Recovery, and Oral Health

In this episode of Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers is joined by Dr. Tonya Cook and Dr. Rebecca Bernstein to explore the connection between substance use and oral health. They break down how substances like tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, and methamphetamine impact the mouth, often accelerating decay through reduced saliva and other side effects—and discuss additional risks tied to stimulants, opioids, and other drugs. The conversation also highlights the broader challenges patients face, including disrupted self-care, stigma, and limited access to dental services, while emphasizing that integrating oral health into treatment can support better outcomes like employment and long-term recovery. The episode concludes with practical strategies providers can use to help mitigate damage, from fluoride treatments to simple daily habits. Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

The Role of Silver Diamine Fluoride in Dental Care

In this episode of Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers speaks with Beau Meyer, DDS, MPH, a board-certified pediatric dentist and associate professor at The Ohio State University, about silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and its growing use in medical settings. Meyer explains how this minimally invasive liquid arrests dental caries through antibacterial action and fluoride-driven remineralization, making it especially valuable in pediatrics, school-based programs, long-term care, and communities with limited dental access. They discuss safety, case selection, informed consent, and practical application guidance for primary care providers, including recognizing when referral is needed. The episode also covers effectiveness, follow-up protocols, and recent reimbursement developments that are expanding physician use of SDF.   Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Dentistry: What’s Changed and Why

In this episode of Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers is joined by Erinne Kennedy, DMD, MPH, MMSc, Assistant Dean for Curriculum and Integrated Learning at the Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine, for an in-depth discussion on antibiotic prophylaxis in dentistry and why the guidelines continue to evolve. The conversation explores how new evidence has reshaped recommendations by more clearly weighing risks versus benefits, and why antibiotic prophylaxis is now reserved for specific patient populations, including those with certain prosthetic joints, high-risk cardiovascular conditions, and immunocompromising conditions. Dr. Kennedy emphasizes the importance of avoiding antibiotics unless they are truly indicated and introduces the concept of “living guidelines” that are regularly updated as new data emerges. The episode also addresses broader issues of antibiotic resistance, key considerations when treating cardiovascular patients, and the removal of clindamycin from recommended use due to its elevated risk of C. difficile infection. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Kennedy shares practical strategies to help dental professionals implement effective antibiotic stewardship and make evidence-based decisions in everyday practice.   Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

HPV and Oral Cancer: What Clinicians Need to Know

In this episode of Smiles for Life: Oral Health Matters, host Dr. Karlynn Sievers speaks with Dr. Stephanie Voyles, faculty physician at the St. Mary’s Family Medicine Residency Program, about the critical connection between human papillomavirus (HPV) and oral health. Dr. Voyles explains why HPV is now responsible for the majority of oral cancers in the United States and highlights the powerful role of the HPV vaccine in preventing these cancers. The conversation addresses the current lack of screening tests for HPV-related throat cancers, compares the effectiveness of vaccination versus natural immunity, and offers practical approaches for navigating vaccine hesitancy with patients and families. They also discuss additional prevention strategies, including routine dental visits, tobacco cessation, and safer sexual practices, underscoring the importance of early education and proactive care.   Oral Health Matters is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].