Dear DrBicuspid Member,
One of the most pressing stories of the year is the abuse of prescribed opioids and concerted efforts to reduce the number of these prescriptions. However, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania found that more than half of opioids prescribed after a dental extraction are not taken. This means it is likely that too many opioids are still being prescribed and patients aren't aware of safe disposal options. Read our coverage here.
In other stories featured this week on DrBicuspid.com, October might be the month of Halloween, but it's also the gateway to the end of the year. As Jen Butler writes, you can use this time to set your office up for success not only for this year but also for 2017. She offers four ideas to help get your office started: Learn more here.
Dr. Alvin Danenberg's columns examine many new and basic understandings of oral and whole-body healthcare, and we're fortunate to be able to bring his thoughts to you. Given the readership numbers and comments I receive, many of you agree. A new study on cannabidiol has piqued his interest, and in his latest column he wonders if the substance might be a future treatment for periodontal disease. Read more here.
On Monday we're opening the nominations for our 2016 Dental Excellence Awards. You can help decide the best new products in many categories, as we seek to honor the best in dentistry. Also, our thoughts go out to all of those affected by Hurricane Matthew. We'll pass along information about relief and recovery efforts as we receive it.
