Morcilio publishes research on alcohol abuse and oral health

Makayla Morcilio headshot.

A research project from Makayla Morcilio, BSDH ’24, has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Dental Hygiene.

Morcilio’s article, titled “Oral and general health implications of alcoholism: A review of the literature,” will be published in the December 2024 issue of the journal.

Morcilio began this study as part of the writing curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program, which requires learners to create a literature review on a topic of interest to them. She chose to study the implications of alcoholism on oral and overall health “after several experiences with patients who suffer from alcohol use disorder,” she said.

“Seeing firsthand the barriers to dental care, poor oral health and significant treatment needs inspired me to investigate the clinical manifestations of alcohol use disorder and the role that dental hygienists may have in its management.”

The process of putting the piece together was inspiring for Morcilio. “I remember feeling surprised that I was interested and excited while  researching and writing about this subject, even though it was for my assignment!,” she recalled.

Morcilio’s paper explores the various effects alcohol abuse can have on health, both oral and systemic. “Alcohol abuse significantly increases one’s risk of morbidity and mortality related to chronic disease, inflammation and secondary cancers,” she explained. “While poor oral hygiene and disease are prevalent among those with alcohol use disorder, routine screening for this condition is uncommon in dental clinics.”

After receiving the Dental Hygiene Writing Award for her project, Morcilio was encouraged to consider publication by Yvette Reibel, EdD, LDH, assistant professor of dental hygiene, Michelle Arnett, RDH, MS, associate professor of dental hygiene, and Rachel Thelen, MSDH, LDH, RF, clinical assistant professor of dental hygiene.


“I realized in exploring this topic how understudied alcohol use disorder is, especially as it relates to dentistry and clinical practice,” she said. She hopes the publication of her article will serve as an antidote to this lack of understanding.

“My hope is that this research will highlight the potential that hygienists have to identify and support individuals who struggle with alcohol abuse,” Morcilio explained. “Dental Hygienist have such a unique role as prevention specialists, and I am excited to see how this role reaches its full potential throughout my career.”

Morcilio is excited to see her research be published, and proud of her effort. “I put so much work into this, and it feels rewarding that other professionals see its value,” she said.

The experience has been rewarding and exciting, and opened Morcilio’s eyes to the possibilities of research in the dental hygiene field.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with my professors on this publication,” she said. “I really encourage senior dental hygiene students to embrace this opportunity to learn more about how research may fit into their dental hygiene career.”