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It’s Time to See the Dentist and Overcome the Pandemic’s “Dental Disaster”

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It’s Time to See the Dentist and Overcome the Pandemic’s “Dental Disaster”

Health officials are warning of fresh COVID-19 outbreaks with new variants such as BA.2.12 and BA.2.12.1, surging across the United States. The fallout from the pandemic’s initial outbreak severely impacted the nation’s oral health. Dental practices around the world were forced to close. And when they did reopen, even after implementing enhanced safety measures, patients still put off routine visits. In 2021, the FDI World Dental Foundation declared this outcome a “dental disaster,” citing the adverse effects of a “catastrophic aftermath of the virus on the health of people’s teeth and gums in dental practices around the globe.” The good news is that vaccinated people remain at low risk of becoming ill from these variants and that dental practices continue to operate openly and safely. The bad news is that people are still skipping regular dental visits. Here’s what patients should know and why they should resume regular checkups.

A Dental Disaster We Can End Now

Disrupted dental care and treatments have generated exponentially augmented problems for patients, particularly those in high-risk groups. Many have since developed advanced tooth decay and related complications, including infections. Others missed soft tissue screenings for oral cancer. However, these conditions were largely preventable given that practices began opening their doors between the first and second wave of the pandemic. Because of exposure concerns or being accustomed to staying at home, patients have persisted in postponing  appointments.

High-risk patients, for example, tended to develop multiple problems, often exhibiting up to four simultaneously, according to FDI research. This population is generally advised to see a dentist every three to six months. Instead, the average today is nine months to a year – if at all.

There exists no direct evidence to support a conclusion that COVID-19 itself impacted oral health outcomes, but it certainly impacted core health behaviors, which influence the negative outcomes we’re witnessing. There are several factors to consider.

  • Public health data reported significant increases in sweets, cookies, and other sugary foods during the quarantine and shelter-at-home periods.
  • Purchases for oral health products declined below consumer averages in 2019 when lockdowns began.
  • U.S. alcohol sales increased by up to 20% between 2019 and 2020,  according to data from Columbia Public Health.
  • With shortages of fresh food products, people purchased more packaged goods, canned foods, and prepackaged meals, all of which contain preservatives and higher volumes of sugars and salts.
  • More people relied on having meals delivered, which increased their intake of fast food and less healthy dietary alternatives than home-cooking.
  • “More than 49 million US residents live in areas designated by the Health Resources and Services Administration as Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in its 2020 report on Oral Health Care and COVID-19.

All said, the combination of these behaviors and the lack of routine dental visits have led to the recent situation.

Getting Back on Track with Oral Care

In March of 2020, when the lock down of dental offices occurred, the Blende Dental Group remained open for their own patients as well as to handle the emergency overflow from the San Francisco Dental Society as well as both dental schools, which had effectively closed.  For roughly two years, dental offices have now been open to seeing patients. Yet, industry intelligence still suggests that too many patients are observing pandemic behaviors – particularly a reluctance to get back on track with regular dental visits. If the issue involves safety, patients should understand (especially those who have been vaccinated) that exposure risks are incredibly low.

“Between the first and second wave, dental practices in many countries were able to reopen,” FDI noted. “Dentists have always abided by the most stringent infection prevention and control protocols and have also revised hygiene measures mandated by governments during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, a recent survey indicates that oral health professionals have significantly lower SARS-CoV-2 infection rates than other healthcare workers in most parts of the world.”

At the Blende Dental Group, our teams have always incorporated hospital-grade sterilization techniques. Because of the COVID-10 outbreak, we strengthened those measures by exceeding all standards of immunizations for transmissible diseases. And we are continuing to embrace those protocols today. Our staff is fully vaccinated, outfitted with the best personal protective equipment, adhere to  stringent hand-sanitizing practices, and undergo regular health screenings.

Because our dentists as well as the entire clinical team are hospital trained, we were in full compliance with the state’s safety approach, which includes a minimum 2-week supply of PPE for our dentists and staff: N95 respirators, face shields, goggles, surgical masks, and other infection control equipment. The protocols we implemented during the waning stages of the outbreak remain in place to protect our patients.

  • Optimized office layout, appointment scheduling procedures, and capacity limits
  • Rigorous cleaning and sanitizing processes across every inch of the office
  • Air purifiers with HEPA filters and UV-C lights in all lobbies, exam rooms, and workspaces

For patients who still feel hesitant or have difficulty commuting, Blende Dental Group’s robust offerings can accommodate them. Our practice modernized and reinvented the concept of house call with the inception of House Call Dentists, where our mobile teams use the latest innovations in mobile dentistry technology.

We have also helped pioneer the adoption of virtual dentistry. As the CDC explained, “The COVID-19 pandemic has thrust alternative modalities such as teledentistry to the forefront of policy considerations. Teledentistry supports the delivery of oral health services through electronic communication means, connecting providers and patients without usual time and space constraints. Teledentistry’s unique ability to connect disadvantaged, primarily rural communities and the homebound with dental providers makes this method particularly well-suited to address lack of access during and after the pandemic.”

We developed a comprehensive teledentistry solution called CUSPID. Video consults connect patients to a dental provider through a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, allowing a dentist to diagnose problems and accelerate treatment options, which may include electronic prescriptions. When follow-up care is required, next-day appointments can be booked. CUSPID includes dedicated portals for dental providers and patients. The software is private, secure, and fully compliant with HIPAA.

Patients Have Options, Not Excuses

The barriers to accessing dental care continue to erode every day. Patients can return to dental offices confidently as stringent safety protocols remain in place. Advances in mobile dentistry and teledentistry further break down the hurdles to seeing a dentist. This is a critical point for high-risk patients who were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, most commonly affecting seniors and children. But options for care exist. And putting off checkups only increases the risks of problems, which lead to more complex procedures.

There are also regulatory issues to take into account. California law, for instance, requires children to receive a dental checkup before their first year of public school. The deadline to get the exam and fill out the paperwork is May 31.

Oral health isn’t just isolated to the teeth, gums, and mouth – it affects so many other parts of the body. It’s time to start seeing the dentist regularly again, and leading practices have created more pathways for accessibility, convenience, and peace of mind.

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May 12 191086
For Homebound Seniors, Consider the Gift of Oral Health for Mother’s Day

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For Homebound Seniors, Consider the Gift of Oral Health for Mother’s Day

With Mother’s Day fast approaching, people around the country are preparing to pay tribute to the matriarchs of their families. Celebrations often include outings, gifts, flowers, cards, and meals at…

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May 5 190782
Braces or Clear Aligners? The Choice Involves More than Appearance

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Braces or Clear Aligners? The Choice Involves More than Appearance

For many teens and adults, orthodontics offers a clear path toward straighter teeth and a more confident smile. Misaligned teeth are common and don’t generally pose oral health risks. So…

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May 4 190979
Everyone’s Stressed Out, and It’s a Real Pain in the…Mouth

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Everyone’s Stressed Out, and It’s a Real Pain in the…Mouth

We learned a lot during the past two years of dealing with a pandemic. For many people, one of those things was the word “bruxism.” Dentists around the country have…

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Apr 29 190635
How Teledentistry Is Removing Barriers to Dental Care

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How Teledentistry Is Removing Barriers to Dental Care

Until the pandemic, people never realized how much they would come to rely on virtual solutions. Digital communications have changed the way people communicate, shop, engage socially, and even manage…

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Apr 19 190433
April Is Here: That Means Flowers and National Facial Protection Month

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April Is Here: That Means Flowers and National Facial Protection Month

Cities and states across the country have gradually lifted mask mandates that were imposed during the outbreak of COVID-19 and its variants. Generally speaking, no states are now directing people…

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Apr 14 190470
Looking for the Best Electric Toothbrush? Here Are Some Tips to Guide Your Decision

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Looking for the Best Electric Toothbrush? Here Are Some Tips to Guide Your Decision

According to data from the Oral Health Foundation, 12 million Brits have switched to electric toothbrushes over the last five years. An estimated 34 million U.K. adults, 67% of the…

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Apr 12 189617
With Expanded Vaccinations and Safety Practices, There’s No Reason to Skip the Dentist

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With Expanded Vaccinations and Safety Practices, There’s No Reason to Skip the Dentist

Prior to the pandemic, a disconcerting number of U.S. adults had routinely skipped visits to the dentist for basic care. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, those numbers have risen dramatically.…

Blende Dental Group

Mar 9 189801
COVID-19: What a Headache, What a Toothache

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COVID-19: What a Headache, What a Toothache

It’s probably not shocking news to most people that a resurgence of COVID-19 has come roaring back during the holiday season. Health officials warned early in the summer months that…

Blende Dental Group

Dec 17 168780
Preventative Care Is Essential to the Nation’s Homebound as COVID-19 Surges

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Preventative Care Is Essential to the Nation’s Homebound as COVID-19 Surges

The recent surge in coronavirus cases hasn’t just led to an alarming rise in hospitalizations and illness, it’s also forced officials in New York and California to reinstate shelter-in-place orders…

Blende Dental Group

Dec 7 170027
House call dental care for a homebound society

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House call dental care for a homebound society

San Francisco/New York, May 6, 2020​ — House Call Dentists announces the expansion and enhancement of its innovative dental care model to safely accommodate emergencies during this time of crisis.…

Blende Dental Group

Jul 8 169425
Activated Charcoal on Teeth – Is it Safe?

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Activated Charcoal on Teeth – Is it Safe?

Activated charcoal is everywhere — from supplement pills to pressed juices to face masks. But is it safe to use on your teeth? Proponents say that brushing with activated charcoal…

Blende Dental Group

Oct 31 189703
What You Need to Know About Gum Care

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What You Need to Know About Gum Care

There is no magic when it comes to maintaining the health of your gums. The key to a healthy smile is to make sure you are effectively removing the soft…

Blende Dental Group

Sep 21 193293
Patient Safety – What sets us apart?

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Patient Safety – What sets us apart?

The Blende Group and House Call Dentists have a unique expertise and service offering, which requires a unique set of skills. But we know skills and safety go hand in…

Blende Dental Group

Aug 6 191365
Dental Care Tips for Dementia Caregivers

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Dental Care Tips for Dementia Caregivers

BY ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION Dental care is one of the most challenging aspects of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving. Proper oral care is necessary to prevent eating difficulties, digestive problems and infections.…

Blende Dental Group

May 7 193552
Xerostomia – The villain known as DRY MOUTH

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Xerostomia – The villain known as DRY MOUTH

by Blende Dental Group Seniors often suffer from Dry Mouth, which is a lack of sufficient saliva, making your mouth feel like a desert. However, Dry Mouth is not a…

Blende Dental Group

May 7 189442
Raising the bar: our standards for being a House Call Dentist

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Raising the bar: our standards for being a House Call Dentist

House call dentistry is a unique and highly specialized field. This requires providers that are properly vetted to take care of the vulnerable population they serve. In today’s blog we…

Blende Dental Group

Apr 9 173343
Resolutions Revisited – Diet trends and dental health

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Resolutions Revisited – Diet trends and dental health

Happy New Year from the Blende Dental Group! 2017 is a new year, bringing with it a new opportunity to recommit to resolutions of health, like weight loss or adopting…

Blende Dental Group

Feb 8 190926
Recreational Cannabis and Oral Health

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Recreational Cannabis and Oral Health

“Researchers have found that frequent recreational cannabis use – including marijuana, hashish, and hash oil – may be associated with elevated risk of periodontal (gum) disease.” The study recently published…

Blende Dental Group

Nov 3 173188
Sarah Marie

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Sarah Marie

Sarah Marie is 90 years old and has dementia. Age Song’s memory care unit in San Francisco referred her to the practice. By performing a simple house call to her…

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Dec 20 175652
Fears and Phobias

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Fears and Phobias

Have you ever postponed or canceled a dental appointment because the thought of sitting in the dentist’s chair made you feel uncomfortable, nervous, or afraid? While sitting in the waiting…

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Dec 19 175882
Drug addiction & oral health

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Drug addiction & oral health

The Blende Dental Group focuses on treating patients with special needs, including  those with chemical, or behavioral addictions.  If you would like schedule an appointment or speak with a Patient…

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Dec 3 175688
Emergency Services FAQ

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Emergency Services FAQ

We offer the following emergency treatments: • Diagnosis & Treatment • Crowns, Bridges, Veneers • Extractions • Infections / Abscesses • Denture Adjustments • Root Canals • Pain Management Contact…

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Nov 27 175598
Patients with Head and Neck Cancer Need Comprehensive Dental Treatment

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Patients with Head and Neck Cancer Need Comprehensive Dental Treatment

The Blende Dental Group focuses on treating patients with special needs, including those with head and neck cancer. Patients with head and neck cancer are often diagnosed in the later…

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Mar 31 177454
Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Time for a Spring Screening

Cancer

Oral Cancer Awareness Month: Time for a Spring Screening

More than 65% of working adults put off essential visits to the dentist. Their reasons vary. Some cite rigorous work schedules or family commitments that absorb much of their free…

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Mar 27 190340
Value-Based Oral Health Care: Aligning with WHO’s Global Strategy on Oral Health

Dental Health

Value-Based Oral Health Care: Aligning with WHO’s Global Strategy on Oral Health

Oral health is an essential component of overall health and well-being. Value-based oral health care is the bridge between the mouth and the body. However, traditional dental care has often…

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Mar 20 8712
World Oral Health Day 2025: How Oral Health Improves Mental Health

Dental Health

World Oral Health Day 2025: How Oral Health Improves Mental Health

World Oral Health Day 2025, which falls on March 20, is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the critical importance of oral health and its profound impact on…

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Mar 13 11052
The Oral Microbiome: How the Mouth Affects the Body and Why Value-Based Dentistry Is Key to Overall Health

Dental Health

The Oral Microbiome: How the Mouth Affects the Body and Why Value-Based Dentistry Is Key to Overall Health

There is an intricate relationship between oral and overall health. What goes on in your mouth can manifest into what happens in the rest of your body. The oral microbiome—a…

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Feb 13 19121
Valentine’s Day and Your Oral Health: a Smile Worth Falling For

Dental Health

Valentine’s Day and Your Oral Health: a Smile Worth Falling For

Valentine’s Day is all about love, romance, and probably a kiss or two. It’s a holiday when sweethearts and sweet treats come together. So this makes Valentine’s a great day…

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Feb 6 22856
Climate Change Is Fueling Wildfires and Disasters; Sustainable Dentistry Can Make a Difference

Dental Health

Climate Change Is Fueling Wildfires and Disasters; Sustainable Dentistry Can Make a Difference

The deadly California wildfires provide another stark reminder that the effects of climate change will continue to increase the prevalence of natural disasters across the country.  The California Air Resources…

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Jan 23 154740
Celebrating a Season of Smiles: Happy Holidays from the Blende Dental Group

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Celebrating a Season of Smiles: Happy Holidays from the Blende Dental Group

Happy holidays! As the winter holidays approach and 2024 draws to a close, we at the Blende Dental Group make sure to take time out from our routines to reflect…

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Dec 19 129827
Gratitude in Every Smile: A Thanksgiving Message from the Blende Dental Group

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Gratitude in Every Smile: A Thanksgiving Message from the Blende Dental Group

As the autumn leaves blanket the ground and the aroma of Thanksgiving feasts fills the air, we find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings that have graced our lives. This…

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Nov 27 139676
Hay Fever and Your Smile: The Link Between Allergies and Oral Health

Dental Health

Hay Fever and Your Smile: The Link Between Allergies and Oral Health

Spring is in the air, and so too are the pollens that lead to hay fever. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you’re well-acquainted with itchy eyes, sneezing fits, and…

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Apr 11 104694
Menopause and Oral Health: The Link Between Hormonal Shifts and a Healthy Smile

Dental Health

Menopause and Oral Health: The Link Between Hormonal Shifts and a Healthy Smile

For many women, menopause marks a significant shift in their physical and emotional wellbeing. Hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings are often the first symptoms that come to mind.…

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Mar 21 109816
Oral Health Literacy: Empowering Optimal Dental Outcomes

Dental Health

Oral Health Literacy: Empowering Optimal Dental Outcomes

Oral health literacy is a growing area of focus in dentistry, and we at the Blende Dental Group are dedicated to empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to…

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Mar 7 113524
Understanding and Strengthening Weak Tooth Enamel for a Confident Smile

Dental Health

Understanding and Strengthening Weak Tooth Enamel for a Confident Smile

Tooth enamel is the armor that helps protect our teeth. However, not all enamel is created equally. Strong, healthy teeth are the foundation of a confident smile. They not only…

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Feb 29 114944
New Bad Breath Research Unravels the Secrets of Halitosis and Potential Treatments

Dental Health

New Bad Breath Research Unravels the Secrets of Halitosis and Potential Treatments

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing and socially isolating issue. However, the key to fresher breath may not simply be achieved by brushing and flossing more;…

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Feb 22 125742
Understanding TMJ Disorders: Shedding Light During TMJ Awareness Month

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Understanding TMJ Disorders: Shedding Light During TMJ Awareness Month

TMJ disorders are prevalent but not always fully comprehended. November is TMJ Awareness Month, a time when we come together to learn about this often misunderstood condition, its symptoms, causes,…

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Nov 9 160304
National Brush Day Celebrates the Toothbrush. But Just How Did the Most Famous Dental Device Come to Be?

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National Brush Day Celebrates the Toothbrush. But Just How Did the Most Famous Dental Device Come to Be?

With Halloween behind us and more holidays on the way, along with a bevy of sweets and treats, it’s no coincidence that National Brush Day is observed on November 1…

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Nov 2 207352
Don’t Let Halloween Treats Become Oral Health Horror Stories

Dental Health

Don’t Let Halloween Treats Become Oral Health Horror Stories

The bewitching season is upon us, and Halloween is lurking around the corner with its spooky charms and delightful confections. It’s a time when kids and adults revel in dressing…

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Oct 26 156284
It’s National Seafood Month, Time to Explore the Oral Health Benefits of Seafood for Those Pearly Whites

Dental Health

It’s National Seafood Month, Time to Explore the Oral Health Benefits of Seafood for Those Pearly Whites

This National Seafood Month, explore the incredible oral health benefits of seafood and how it can transform your smile. October is National Seafood Month, a time to celebrate the bountiful…

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Oct 19 145703
Mental Health Issues Affect Oral Health, But Specialized Dental Care Is Available

Dental Health

Mental Health Issues Affect Oral Health, But Specialized Dental Care Is Available

Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with mental health issues, but because of persistent stigmas and the fear of discussing these conditions, too few people seek…

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Oct 12 148548
The Future of Dentistry: Embracing Innovation and Personalization

Dental Health

The Future of Dentistry: Embracing Innovation and Personalization

The future of dentistry is defined by innovation in techniques and technologies, with an emphasis on personalization and comfort. For those concerned about their oral health, a brighter future and…

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Oct 5 156474
No White After Labor Day Shouldn’t Apply to Your Teeth: Here Are Some Tips for a Stunning Smile All Year

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No White After Labor Day Shouldn’t Apply to Your Teeth: Here Are Some Tips for a Stunning Smile All Year

Outdated though the traditional may be, you could still face criticism from fashionistas for wearing white after Labor Day, a faux pas that invokes a throwback to the turn of…

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Sep 7 177683
How Dentistry Has Changed to Support Patients in the New Normal of Digital, On Demand, Concierge Care

Dental Health

How Dentistry Has Changed to Support Patients in the New Normal of Digital, On Demand, Concierge Care

According to research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Americans got back 60 million hours of their time as a result of remote work during the pandemic. So…

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Dec 21 190881
Happy Thanksgiving from the Blende Dental Group

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Happy Thanksgiving from the Blende Dental Group

Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and as we write this, families across the nation are preparing to gather in a celebration of the bonds that unite us. The spirit of this season…

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Nov 23 173856
You May Be Surprised to Learn that Dental House Calls Not Only Exist, They’re Thriving

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You May Be Surprised to Learn that Dental House Calls Not Only Exist, They’re Thriving

House calls are firmly ingrained in the fabric of American culture and history. We’ve all heard stories about the country doctor who traveled across hill and dale to care for…

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Nov 22 198382
No Tricks, Just Tips for a Healthy Mouth this Halloween

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No Tricks, Just Tips for a Healthy Mouth this Halloween

With Halloween falling on a Monday this year, weekend gatherings and All Hallows Eve trick-or-treating mean costumed revelers may have three days’ worth of sweets and goodies to enjoy. That’s…

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Oct 28 194075
Virtual Reality Could Become a Real World Benefit to Dentists and Their Patients

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Virtual Reality Could Become a Real World Benefit to Dentists and Their Patients

With leaps in the development of Virtual Reality (VR), could dentistry become part of Mark Zuckerberg’s metaverse? VR is being used as an educational tool for students and as an…

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Oct 7 193664
Blende Dental Group Thrilled to Participate in the International Association for Disability and Oral Health Conference in Paris

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Blende Dental Group Thrilled to Participate in the International Association for Disability and Oral Health Conference in Paris

From August 23 to 26, the 26th conference of the International Association for Disability and Oral Health (iADH) takes place in Paris. “The rights of vulnerable populations to achieve an…

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Aug 26 193435
Cigarettes, Vapes and Marijuana, Oh My: The Oral Health Risks of Smoking

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Cigarettes, Vapes and Marijuana, Oh My: The Oral Health Risks of Smoking

The good news? Tobacco use has reached an historic low. The bad news? Vaping (using electronic cigarettes filled with juice or nicotine salt) and marijuana use are climbing. Vaping may…

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Aug 12 193073
The Cosmetic Dentistry Market Is Booming, Thanks to Technology and Technique

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The Cosmetic Dentistry Market Is Booming, Thanks to Technology and Technique

According to the July report “Cosmetic Dentistry Market Size, Share, Trends, By Product Type, By Patient Type, By End-Use, and By Region Forecast to 2028,” cosmetic dentistry is booming. Analysts…

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Aug 5 192491
People with Special Needs Are Facing a Growing But Seldom Discussed Oral Health Crisis

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People with Special Needs Are Facing a Growing But Seldom Discussed Oral Health Crisis

It requires little effort to peruse the daily news and uncover stories related to the growing health crisis in the country, whether the issues involve post-pandemic outbreaks, staffing shortages for…

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Jul 15 190787
How Artificial Intelligence Will Shape the Future Reality of Dentistry

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How Artificial Intelligence Will Shape the Future Reality of Dentistry

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Intelligence (AuI), once inhabitants of a realm relegated to science fiction, have become increasingly ubiquitous aspects of modern life. Every day, people tap into the…

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Jul 8 191935
This July 4, Let’s Focus on the Oral Health Needs of Patients Who Struggle with Independence

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This July 4, Let’s Focus on the Oral Health Needs of Patients Who Struggle with Independence

 With the July 4 holiday right around the corner, the nation gathers to reflect on the nature of independence. Through fraught and bold decisions, the would-be founders of the United…

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Jul 1 192345

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