Individuals with unmet social determinants of health (SDOH) needs have a higher incidence of systemic diseases that impact oral health and a higher prevalence of dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. During this presentation, we will delve into the domains of SDOH and the reasons why a dental hygienist should include an assessment screening for SDOH in practice. Whether you are employed as a dental hygiene educator, as a dental hygiene practitioner, or in areas of public health, you will be able to take what's learned and implement a quick SDOH screening and referral process in your classrooms, practices, and clinics. Attendees will also practice screening with an SDOH tool and gain ideas on how to develop an SDOH referral form for their communities.
Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this session attendees will be able to:
Identify the impact of unmet SDOH needs on systemic and oral diseases.
Recognize the need for SDOH screening and resource referrals to help reduce oral disease.
Implement a SDOH screening tool in dental hygiene practice or undergraduate dental hygiene program clinics.
Create a SDOH resource referral form for a community.
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