Episode 737 · January 22, 2026

The Blue Light Hazard in Dentistry: What You Need to Know

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Featured Guest

Dr. Marie Fluent

Dr. Marie Fluent

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Dr. Fluent is a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Her dental career spans 35 years and includes roles as dentist, both as an associate and practice owner, infection control coordinator, office manager and dental assistant. Additionally, she has extensive experience and expertise as a dental infection control clinical instructor, educator, speaker, author, and consultant. Dr. Fluent is passionate and deeply committed to improving dental infection control and patient safety. Through her writing, webinars, and invited lectures, she has educated thousands of dental professionals and students nationally and internationally.

Episode Summary

Today, we’re shedding light—quite literally—on a hidden hazard in the dental operatory: blue light exposure. Dental curing lights have increased in intensity over the past few decades, now delivering up to a staggering 6000 milliwatts per square centimeter. While this shortens curing times, it also means clinicians are exposed to higher doses of blue light in a much shorter period, making it especially dangerous. Even brief exposure can cause retinal damage. What can we do to protect ourselves?

Our guest is Dr. Marie Fluent. Dr. Fluent’s dental career spans over 35 years and includes all roles within the dental practice. She is passionate and deeply committed to improving dental infection control and clinicians and patient safety. Through her writing, webinars, and invited lectures, she has educated thousands of dental professionals and students nationally and internationally.

Keywords

dentaldentistViva Learning OriginalsAdhesives/CementsCrown/Bridge/Veneers/IndirectDirect RestorativesWork Environment and Law

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