Mind and Mouth: Bridging the Gap Between Mental Health and Oral Care
About This Event
Individuals suffering from mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder often face unique challenges in maintaining proper oral hygiene. Barriers to dental care may include cognitive impairments, fear of dental procedures, medication side effects, and diminished motivation for self-care. This CE webinar explores the importance of integrating mental health considerations into dental care strategies, focusing on patient-centered approaches to improve outcomes. Key aspects covered include understanding the oral health implications of psychiatric medications, the role of oral health professionals in recognizing signs of mental illness, and the need for tailored dental care plans to accommodate the specific needs of this population. Additionally, preventive strategies, such as establishing oral health routines, regular dental visits, and collaboration between mental health providers and dental professionals, are discussed to enhance care and reduce the long-term risks of dental diseases for those living with mental illness.
Learning Objectives
- Explain how mental health disorders impact oral health and dental care routines
- Recognize the barriers to maintaining good oral hygiene in patients with mental illness
- Design customized dental care strategies
- Create effective preventive measures
- Demonstrate effective communication techniques to alleviate patient anxiety.