The Developmental Disabilities Association (DDA) includes a group of special adults under the diabetic and weight loss program who are have unmet needs in terms of their oral health. For this population, they face many challenges such as dexterity and mobility issues, as well as having low oral health literacy and difficulty in access to dental care.
In my second year of community, my group was assigned to DDA. As dental hygienists, it is important to consider these challenges from the population and educate them by helping them resolving these issues in order to improve their oral health. Our main goal was to play the educator role: to educate them on nutrition on how some foods can cause cavity formation, provide exercising routines, demonstrate toothbrushing techniques and giving resources.
It was such a wonderful experience for me. Until now, I remembered how amazed I was when the individuals in our group expressed great curiosity by asking us so many questions about gingival health and nutrition. It was unexpected; after the implementation I had a different perspective and a more positive outlook on these types of populations.
Standing by DDA with my fellow classmates. Credits: Myself