Raya Alghabban

Having observation an orthodontic clinic for the first time, I found my observations of the orthodontic clinic experience to be helpful. Initially, my observation was replacing both the wire and power chain in a fixed orthodontic appliance which involves several steps to ensure proper placement and function. Start with Gathering all necessary instruments and materials, including the new orthodontic wire, power chain, ligature cutter, orthodontic pliers, dental mirror, and explorer, then prepare the dental chair and ensure proper lighting for the procedure to seat the patient comfortably in the dental chair and explain the procedure. Provide appropriate protective eyewear for the patient.

The dental student began to examine the existing wire and power chain and assess their condition, including any signs of wear, breakage, or misalignment. Evaluate the alignment of the teeth and determine the appropriate size and type of wire and power chain needed for the replacement. Removal of existing wire by using a ligature cutter to carefully cut the existing wire at both ends, near the brackets. Gently remove the remnants of the old wire from the brackets using orthodontic pliers. Inspect the brackets and archwire slots for any residual adhesive or debris and clean as necessary using an explorer or scaler.

The dental student starts the removal of the existing power chain, which uses a ligature cutter to carefully cut the existing power chain at both ends. Gently remove the remnants of the old power chain from the brackets and arch wire using orthodontic pliers. Then select an appropriate size and type of orthodontic wire based on the patient's treatment plan and needs. Thread the new wire through the brackets on either the upper or lower arch, ensuring proper alignment and engagement with each bracket. She used orthodontic pliers to secure the ends of the wire to the corresponding brackets, ensuring a secure fit.  After that placement of the new power chain by Selecting an appropriate length and color of the new power chain based on the patient's treatment plan and preferences. Attach one end of the power chain to the first bracket on either the upper or lower archwire using orthodontic pliers. Stretch the power chain gently to the other end and attach it to the corresponding bracket on the opposite side of the archwire. Ensure that the power chain is securely seated in each bracket slot and properly aligned with the teeth. And then adjustment and finishing by using orthodontic pliers to adjust the tension of the wire and power chain as needed, ensuring proper alignment and engagement with the teeth. Trim any excess length of the wire and power chain using a ligature cutter, leaving a small tail for easy removal during future adjustments. Check the patient's occlusion and ensure that the wire and power chain does not interfere with their bite. Provide post-procedure instructions to the patient, including proper oral hygiene practices and care of the orthodontic appliances. When the dental student finished and the dental faculty gave her approval, she Scheduled a follow-up appointment to monitor the patient's progress and make any necessary adjustments to the orthodontic appliances.

Overall, my experience will help me as a dental hygienist in the future because it has taught me how to work with and around orthodontic appliances/braces. I also understood how professionalism in the faculty-student relationship, based on an open discussion of treatment options, ensured that the patient chose the best plan. Orthodontic treatment requires individualized planning care with an appointment that requires both the patience and compassion of the patient and the precision and passion of the orthodontist. My confidence was boosted by the knowledge I gained from working with orthodontic patients, which motivated me to improve and streamline the process.

       4/4/2025

IPE Day Reflection

    IPE Day was a valuable experience that allowed me to collaborate with Physician Assistant (PA) students and engage in meaningful discussions about oral health and fluoride application. This opportunity reinforced the most important aspect of  cross–functional teamwork in providing comprehensive patient care. 

Throughout the session, I shared information about on fluoride application, its benefits in preventing dental caries, and its role in overall patient health. The PA students appeared open to suggestions to the information, asking kind questions and demonstrating interest in incorporating oral health knowledge into their medical practice. I learned from PA how to do extra head and neck examinations, which helped me in the clinic. I appreciated their excitement to learn, as it underscored the growing awareness of the oral-systemic connection in healthcare.

     I felt comfortable communicating with the PA students, as the exchange was both professional and collaborative. Their medical background facilitated engaging discussions about fluoride safety, systemic effects, and its role in managing high-risk patients. The experience enhanced my ability to explain dental concepts in a way that non-dental professionals could understand, a crucial skill when supporting oral health awareness in multidisciplinary settings.

    After graduation, I would absolutely consider educating or collaborating with healthcare professionals outside of dentistry in similar settings. I believe these interactions are essential in bridging the gap between oral and systemic health. By continuing to promote fluoride application and other preventive strategies, I can contribute to a more general and patient-centered approach to healthcare.

    Overall, IPE Day was a rewarding and helpful experience highlighting collaboration's importance. It reinforced my confidence in teaching oral health concepts, strengthened my communication skills, and motivated me to continue promoting dental awareness in larger healthcare settings.