Topic: Current Dental Topics Tuition: $60.00 Credits: 3 AGD Number: 750- Special Patient Care Recommended For:
Dentists, Hygienists, Students, Educator
Description:
Moderator: Rina A. Nowka, RDH MA
NANCY KUY, RDH, MSc, EdD PARENTAL INSIGHTS ON AUTISM ORAL CARE Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at significantly higher risk for oral health problems compared to their neurotypical peers. Yet, the factors driving these disparities are not fully understood. This course will explore the unique challenges and needs associated with oral care for chil- dren with ASD, emphasizing the crucial roles that both parents and dental professionals play in promoting positive outcomes. By examining parental perspectives and evidence-based strategies, the course will provide valuable insights into improving cooperation, reducing anxiety, and delivering effec- tive, compassionate care to this vulnerable population.
JACQUELINE WENGER, RDH, MS OLDER ADULTS’ DIETARY NEEDS & ORAL HEALTH As people age, natural physiological changes bring about unique dietary needs that are often unmet due to a range of physical, psychosocial, and financial barriers. These nutritional challenges can both impact and be impacted by oral health, creating a cycle that compromises overall well- being. This program will examine the complex relationship between nutri- tion and oral health in older adults. It will also highlight the vital role dental hygienists play in recognizing nutritional deficiencies and supporting patients in making dietary improvements that contribute to better oral and systemic health and ultimately, a higher quality of life.
RACHEL VINCI, MHA, RDH, BS WHEN THE CAREGIVER BECOMES THE PATIENT: A DENTAL HYGIENIST’S EXPERIENCE WITH IMMUNOCOMPROMISE AND LATENT TB Infection control is a cornerstone of dental practice but what happens when the provider becomes the one at risk? In this compelling 30-minute presentation, a dental hygienist shares her deeply personal journey of navigating the dental workplace while undergoing breast cancer treatment and living with a compromised immune system. During this vulnerable time, she contracted latent tuberculosis (TB), an experience that revealed critical gaps and opportunities for improving infection control protocols. Through her story, she offers not only practical insights and actionable strategies for enhancing infection prevention, but also a message of resilience and awareness. Attendees will come away with a renewed commitment to infection control and a deeper understanding of how these protocols protect everyone in the operatory not just the patients, but the entire dental team.
TAMARA FAURE, RDH, MS, EDD ADAPTING RADIOGRAPHIC TECHNIQUES FOR PATIENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Are you prepared to take diagnostic radiographs when the traditional paralleling technique isn’t feasible? Patients with special needs often present unique challenges such as anatomical variations, limited mouth opening, or small oral cavities that can make standard radiographic techniques difficult or impossible. This course will explore practical, alternative radiographic methods that go beyond the XCP kit and the parallel approach. Attendees will gain confidence in adapting their technique to meet the individual needs of patients, ensuring both comfort and diagnostic accuracy in challenging clinical situations.
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