Recently, I completed a comprehensive two-day course with hands-on advanced training in geriatric and special needs dental care.
The enlightening course and hands-on training was presented by Larry N. Williams, D.D.S., M.P.H., at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine in Downers Grove.
Simply put, the course reviewed and presented new information and treatment techniques for physical, medical, social, emotional and psychological disabilities. The new information will advance, even replace, old techniques that might hinder or prevent effective management of dental problems or disease for some individuals in need of dental care.
During my more than 35 years in this business, I’ve witnessed that some patients of all ages are more anxious than others. During the recent course, I was made aware that one in ten people have dental anxiety or phobia, and that one in six Americans have some form of disability.
My patients know our office recommends regularly scheduled dental visits because check ups allow me to detect cavities (tooth decay) early. The earlier we catch them, the less expensive cavities are to treat and your overall health is better.
With an aging population also comes a large increase in the number of people with special needs, a population that requires special attention, treatment options and different techniques. New techniques and materials now allow for minimally invasive management of dental issues and disease as well as effective treatment for larger numbers of patients.
If special dental care options or any of these new treatments might improve your healthcare or the care of someone you know, give our office a call to set up a consultation.