Special Care for Special Considerations: Homecare Strategies for Patients on the Autism Spectrum
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Summary
One in 44 children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with approximately 100 new cases identified each day and the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the country. For dental professionals, treating patients with ASD presents unique challenges, especially in terms of addressing the oral health issues associated with medications and related conditions.
Daily oral care can be particularly difficult for individuals with ASD due to sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, and routine disruptions. The speaker, both a hygienist and mother of a child with ASD, has developed effective homecare techniques to alleviate these challenges. By tailoring homecare approaches to the specific needs of individuals with ASD, it becomes possible to improve their oral health outcomes while reducing the stress associated with dental hygiene routines.
What you'll learn:
- Attendees will review the Autism Spectrum symptoms and commonly related disorders
- Review of common medications used to treat symptoms of the disorder and oral implications
- Introduce methods to treat patients with special considerations in the dental office
- Discuss solutions and recommendation options that may be instrumental for improved homecare and oral health
Speakers
Jamie Collins, RDH-EA,BS is a hygienist licensed in Idaho and Washington states and dedicated to advancing the dental profession. With over twenty years in the dental field, it has led her to being involved in many aspects of patient care. With a passion for patient care, especially those with higher risk factors, Jamie enjoys sharing the tips and tricks of dental profession. Through speaking and writing for various publications, with over 80 articles published, she educates dental professionals worldwide. She has been awarded the ADHA Trailblazer Award in 2021,2022 and the first recipient of the ADHA Standout Seven Corporate Hygienist award in 2022. Jamie has also contributed to multiple textbooks, curriculum development, and contributes as a key opinion leader for various companies. Jamie can be contacted at [email protected] or visit mydentaleducator.com
Moderator | Annie Walters, MSDH, RDH is a licensed dental hygienist with 6+ years of experience as an oral health care provider. She received her undergraduate education from Northern Arizona University where she spent time caring for individuals in Guatemala and Indian Health Service sites. Since then, Annie has been practicing dental hygiene in various settings and has found an interest in volunteering within her community, as well as advancing access to care for individuals with specialized health care needs. She is a member of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association and has published literature in RDH Magazine. Annie has completed a MS in Dental Hygiene from the University of New Mexico, where she developed a chairside resource for dental hygienists to use when caring for patients with specialized health care needs. Annie currently practices clinical dental hygiene in Flagstaff, Arizona and serves as part-time faculty at her Alma Mater.
