[Alyssa]

In this session, I learned about the unique challenges and considerations involved in providing dental care to this special population. I gained knowledge on identifying and diagnosing dental issues in children and youth with special health care needs, and how to develop comprehensive treatment plans that accommodate their specific needs. Accommodating special needs while delivering preventive and restorative dental services in a traditional dental office requires a patient-centered approach. I have learned about techniques to manage behavioral challenges, anxiety, and sensory sensitivities that children and youth with special health care needs may experience during dental procedures. Overall, this course has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, strategies, and best practices involved in diagnosing and delivering preventive and restorative dental treatment in traditional dental settings for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs. I am equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and effective dental care while accommodating the unique needs of this special population, and promoting a positive clinical environment that ensures their comfort and well-being.

[Alyssa]

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In this course, I learned that effective coordination is crucial in ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities receive proper oral health care. This includes creating individualized care plans, understanding the unique needs of each patient, and addressing any communication or behavioral challenges that may arise during dental visits. One significant challenge that was highlighted is the limitation of transportation, which can greatly affect access to oral health care for individuals with disabilities. Many people with developmental disabilities may face transportation barriers due to physical limitations, lack of accessible transportation options, or financial constraints. As a result, they may struggle to access dental care services, leading to unmet oral health needs and potential complications. Overall, I have learned more about the field of special needs dentistry and how it requires dental care providers to have additional training in understanding the unique needs of patients with disabilities, such as sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and behavioral issues. I learned the important role that pediatrician offices have in ensuring wholistic care for children with special needs, and how children with special needs often require a team approach of care.

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[Alyssa]

In this session, I learned about the significance of behavior change in promoting oral health. I understand that simply providing information about oral health is not enough and it is crucial to use evidence-based techniques to facilitate behavior change in clinical and community settings. This includes understanding the principles of motivational communication, such as utilizing patient-centered approaches and setting realistic goals to enhance patient engagement and compliance with oral health recommendations. I learned more about oral health literacy and its impact on promoting oral health outcomes, as well as strategies to improve oral health literacy among patients. Furthermore, I learned more about effective desensitization techniques for individuals with developmental disabilities in clinical settings and the importance of creating a safe and comfortable environment for patients with developmental disabilities. Overall, this session has equipped me with evidence-based techniques and strategies to promote oral health, improve oral health literacy, communicate effectively with patients, and provide appropriate care for individuals with developmental disabilities in clinical and community settings.

[Author]

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