This National Dental Hygiene Week, we are shining a light on the incredible research and innovation being spearheaded by our very own dental hygiene students, faculty, and alumni. Our team isn’t just focused on bright smiles; they are finding new ways to make the dental chair a lot less daunting.
A New Approach to Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is a significant barrier to care, ranging from mild nerves to full-blown phobias. In 2023, a group of dental hygiene students conducted an informational study to determine whether therapy dogs could provide a less invasive alternative to traditional sedation.
By reviewing past research, and interviewing dentists that already utilize therapy dogs, the team explored how these four-legged friends can build trust and calm the generalized anxiety that often makes visits unpleasant. The impact of this work was so significant that it was published in the Fall 2023 issue of the California Dental Hygiene Association (CDHA) Journal, providing a formal academic foundation for these innovative methods.
CBS News Spotlight: Danielle Ellington
The impact of this research is making waves far beyond the classroom and publication. Faculty member Danielle Ellington, RDH, MA, was recently featured on CBS News Spotlight to discuss the study’s findings. During her interview, Danielle highlighted:
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The vital role of trust-building in patient care aided by the furry friends.
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What the future of integrated therapy dogs could look like.
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The potential for new regulations and standards to bring these "comfort colleagues" into more clinics.
Leading the Way
The results of the study were clear: therapy dogs make a positive impact on patient outcomes, including better pain management and reduced anxiety. While more research is needed regarding long-term integration and risk assessment, we are incredibly proud of the initiative our students, faculty, and alumni have taken.
Their work proves that the future of dental hygiene is not just about clinical excellence, but about treating the whole patient with empathy and innovation. Happy National Dental Hygiene Week!
Link: CBS News Spot
Article Link: Impact of the Use of Therapy Dogs in the Dental Office: A Review of Interviews