20th Annual Seminar 

March 28-29 , 2025

with Dr. JoAnn Gurenlian

DAY ONE  

Caring Beyond the Chair: Enhancing Oral Health Care for Patients with Autism and Special Needs

Providing oral health care to patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other disabilities presents unique challenges and opportunities for dental hygienists. This course aims to enhance understanding and improve clinical practices working with patients who have special care needs. Participants will gain insight into the sensory, behavioral, and communication differences associated with ASD and other disabilities, and learn practical techniques to create a more inclusive, comfortable, and effective dental environment.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder and other common disabilities focusing on how these conditions affect oral health and treatment.
2. Identify the behavioral and sensory processing challenges that patients with ASD and other disabilities may experience in the dental setting.
3. Apply communication strategies and modifications to clinical procedures tailored to the needs of patients with ASD and other disabilities including the use of visual aids, non-verbal communication techniques, and behavior modeling to enhance patient cooperation and comfort.
4. Collaborate with caregivers, parents, and interdisciplinary health professionals to create a supportive network around the patient, ensuring continuity of care and holistic treatment planning.

High on Life: Understanding the Impact of Marijuana and Vaping 

With the growing popularity of marijuana use and vaping, it is essential for dental hygienists to understand the implications these habits have on general and oral health. This course will delve into the latest research on who is using and the unique challenges these substances present in clinical practice. Knowledge and tools needed to recognize oral health issues, educate patients effectively, and promote healthier alternatives will be discussed to enhance patient care and outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

    1. Describe the risk factors to consider when treating patients who         use marijuana and vaping products.

    2. Identify the components of e-cigarettes and their connection to         oral pathologies.

    3.Recognize clinical signs and symptoms of cannabinoid and vaping         use and how to better manage these patients.

    4. Discuss effective preventive measures and treatment options         tailored to patients who use marijuana or vape.

    5. Develop effective strategies for communicating with patients about         the health risks of marijuana and vaping, and offer practice         advice for minimizing harm.

DAY TWO

Unlocking the Door to Mental Health: An Opportunity to Improve Health Care

Who hasn’t had a bad day now and then, felt a little down, or anxious at times? We call can relate to those feelings. But do we relate to mental illness? And do we know how to address mental illness in dental practice settings? Recent estimates indicate that 26% of people in Switzerland reported mental health issues in 2024 with 15% experiencing depression. In Switzerland, mental health has not overtaken cancer to become the second highest concern globally. People in this country indicate that stress is a major concern. Further, 48% of people in Switzerland see mental health as one of the biggest health problems facing people in the country. While there are treatment options for individuals experiencing mental health conditions, many do not seek treatment due to the stigma associated with it.

This course is designed to bring greater awareness to mental health conditions and to shed a light on what oral health professionals can do to be more proactive in identifying mental health symptoms, and address strategies for increasing access to care.

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize the critical nature of mental illness.
2. Screen for mental illness in dental practice settings.
3. Identify oral manifestations of pharmacologic treatment for mental illness.
4. Encourage individuals with mental illness to seek treatment. 

Artificial Intelligence in Dental Hygiene Practice

If you have not already done so, it is time to explore the innovative integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical dental hygiene. Learn how AI technologies enhance patient care, streamline processes, and improve treatment outcomes. This course will dive into the practice applications of AI tools, predictive analytics, and machine learning so you can gain insights into how AI can revolutionize the way dental hygienists deliver high-quality, personalized care to your patients.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence and its potential applications in clinical dental hygiene.
2. Explore various AI-driven technologies and tools used in dental practice to improve patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
3. Evaluate the ethical considerations and limitations of AI in oral health care including patient privacy, data security, and algorithm bias.
4. Recognize the value of implementing AI-based strategies to optimize workflow efficiency, enhance patient communication, and deliver individualized care in the dental hygiene setting.

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