Week in Review: SDF reimbursement in Calif.; sugar limits at school; and sleep apnea review

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

Two of our most-read stories this week focused on innovative methods of combating childhood caries.

The California Department of Health Care Services has approved the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for some high-risk children enrolled in Denti-Cal, the state's dental Medicaid program. This pilot program is initially focused in 11 counties in the state. Learn more here.

Another approach to reduce caries in children may be to restrict sugary drinks and foods on elementary school campuses. Researchers wondered if school nutrition policies actually improve children's oral health and reduce caries rates. Based on their study results in a school with socioeconomically disadvantaged students, this policy may be effective. Read more here.

Also this week on DrBicuspid.com, while screening for sleep apnea is often recommended as a practice benefit for a dental office, what is the weight of the published evidence about the benefits -- and harms -- of sleep apnea screening? A new review in the Journal of the American Medical Association drew some worrying conclusions. Learn more here.

Along with focusing on providing your patients with a great clinical experience, managing your practice and your team is crucial. Do you have your dream dental team working for you? If the answer is no, Corinne Jameson-Kuehl has some ideas to help your office stop the turnover and hire the right people. Read her column here.