Racial Attitudes and Perceptions of Government Response during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Public Health Strategies.

Background: This study explored whether opinions about the government's role in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic vary based on demographic characteristics and racial beliefs. We hypothesized that opinions about the United States (U.S.

COVID-19 Safety: Perspectives from Dental Students.

Background: The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic created challenges for healthcare providers, especially dental professionals in practices and universities. This study investigated dental students' concerns about COVID-19 and whether institutional communication influenced pandemic-related stressors.

Methods: An online survey designed to elicit dental students' concerns about COVID-19 was distributed to all dental students enrolled at a private non-profit academic institution in the Western United States from 26 April 2021 to 25 August 2021.

The Association of Vitamin D Levels and Dental Caries in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Introduction: Most research examining vitamin D and dental caries focuses on children and younger adults. This study investigated the association between vitamin D levels and dental caries in older adults using data from the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2011 to 2016.

Methods: Data were analyzed from 2723 participants aged 65 years and older who completed both dental examinations and serum 25(OH)D tests.

Oral Health and Older Adults: A Narrative Review.

Oral health's association with general health, morbidity, and mortality in older adults highlights its importance for healthy aging. Poor oral health is not an inevitable consequence of aging, and a proactive, multidisciplinary approach to early recognition and treatment of common pathologies increases the likelihood of maintaining good oral health. Some individuals may not have regular access to a dentist, and opportunities to improve oral health may be lost if health professionals fail to appreciate the importance of oral health on overall well-being and quality of life.

Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Use and Periodontal Health-Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study.

(1) Background: Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDSs) are rapidly increasing in the U.S., however, information about their long-term risks and benefits remains limited.