OT

Question 1

What patient populations most need OT for dental care?

Answer 1

Physical disabilities
Developmental disabilities
Sensory Accommodations
Pregnancy
Older Adults

Question 2

How can arthritis affect dental care?

Answer 2

Joint function impaired -> TMJ, upper extremities, whole body
Challenging oral care, joint motion and weakness, inflammation and pain, oral function

Question 3

What can you do to accommodate arthritis?

Answer 3

Body positioning during clinical visit
TMJ in and out of the office
Upper extremity function for oral care

Question 4

What are some common physical and oral challenges for individuals with developmental disabilities?

Answer 4

Processing and learning,
craniofacial structure,
or oral care,
medication side effects,
reflexes,
behavior

Question 5

What are some tools and strategies to treat patients with developmental disabilities?

Answer 5

Cues, terminology, structure
Patient and caregiver education
Regular checkups
Adaptive equipment
Team referrals
Advanced dental interventions

Question 6

What diagnostic groups exist in sensory processing groups?

Answer 6

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Cerebral palsy (CP)
Down syndrome (DS)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Question 7

What preventative challenges exist with individuals who have sensory processing?

Answer 7

Oral sensitivity
Adverse reactions
Difficulty with oral hygiene

Question 8

What strategies and tools exist for individuals with sensory accommodations?

Answer 8

Refer to OT
Predictable routine
Visual supports
Oral massage/vibration to face/mouth area
Soft bristles
Mild toothpaste

Question 9

What diagnostic groups exist in neurologic physical disabilities?

Answer 9

Spinal cord injury (SCI)
Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Question 10

What preventative challenges exist for individuals with neurologic physical disabilities?

Answer 10

Impaired grip strength/UE movement
Impaired coordination
Hemiparesis/hemiplegia
Increased wear/trauma of dentition
Lack of instruction

Question 11

What are some strategies and tools for individuals with neurologic physical disabilities?

Answer 11

“Proximal stability leads to distal mobility”
Adapt, adapt, adapt
Built up handles
Universal cuffs
Electronic toothbrushes
Waterpiks
Flip top lids, toothpaste crimpers loops

Question 12

What happens during pregnancy that affects oral health?

Answer 12

Hormonal changes
Increased risk of dental problems
Pregnancy gingivitis (40-75% of pregnant women)
Dental erosion from morning sickness
Tooth mobility due to hormonal changes

Question 13

What are some barriers to oral care for pregnant women?

Answer 13

Morning sickness/heightened gag reflex
Fatigue and difficulty maintaining posture
Anxiety about dental procedures
Chewing gum or sucking on candy

Question 14

How can oral health be maintained during pregnancy?

Answer 14

Establishing oral care routines reinforced by interprofessional team
Understanding morning sickness routines
Incorporating breaks

Question 15

What tools and strategies are there for pregnant women to maintain oral health?

Answer 15

Small basin for unexpected sickness
Adapt toothbrush to oral tolerance
Alternative flossing tools
Positioning during exams (semi-reclined, frequent position changes, support cushions)

Question 16

How many adults above the age of 65 have had a cavity?

Answer 16

~96%

Question 17

How many adults age 65 and older have untreated tooth decay?

Answer 17

1 in 5

Question 18

How many adults aged 65 or older have gum disease?

Answer 18

3 in 5

Question 19

What is the median age for diagnosis of oral cancers?

Answer 19

63 (mostly older adults)

Question 20

What are some oral health presentations that can be found in older adults?

Answer 20

Darkened teeth
Dry mouth
Root decay
Gum disease
Tooth loss/breakage
Uneven jawbone
Sensitive teeth
Denture induced stomatitis
Thrush

Question 21

What are some barriers to oral health for older adults?

Answer 21

Complex medical conditions
Medication effects on oral health
Increased risk of oral diseases
Functional limitations impact care
Risk of poor nutrition from oral problems and diet changes

Question 22

What supportive oral care is available for older adults?

Answer 22

Work with interprofessional team on dietary intake
Daily use of high fluoride toothpaste
Systematic oral health education
Accessible dental offices with educated staff and adequate health literature
Establishing oral care routines in adaptive environments supported by interprofessional team

Question 23

What tools and strategies are available for older adults for oral care?

Answer 23

Adaptive toothbrush (electric, built-up, suction cup, etc)
Palm/held floss
Memory aids/task breakdown
Caregiver training
Strategies during exams
-Position changes
-Breaks
-Clear communication
-Pain monitoring
-Vital sign checks