Being of Service
Inside Dentistry provides the latest in endodontics, implantology, periodontics, and more, with in-depth articles, expert videos, and top industry insights.
November 1, 2022
Volume 18, Issue 11, November 2022
Page(s): p. 2
Back in February 2022, Inside Dentistry's cover story addressed the plight faced by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in accessing oral healthcare. This month, our November 2022 cover story reenters the conversation to further elaborate on the oral healthcare challenges experienced by this population and explore some of the specific efforts of universities and organizations to address the need for better education and training for students and practicing dentists as well as to improve access to routine and preventive care.
As you'll read in the article, a lot of work toward educating dentists to treat patients with IDDs is being done at the dental schools of the University of the Pacific and the University of Pennsylvania, which have created facilities that both improve access to care locally as well as provide opportunities for students to learn and build confidence. However, more and more universities are getting involved and introducing or expanding IDD education at both the predoctoral and postgraduate levels. At the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, we offer a 1-year postgraduate program for a certificate in Geriatric and Special Needs Dentistry. Beyond dental school, CE experiences and other resources are available for those who are already in practice. With the huge disparity in care that this population experiences in many areas, to truly realize equity, it is incumbent upon all dentists to get involved. You can help make a difference!
Robert C. Margeas, DDS
Editor-in-Chief, Inside Dentistry
Private Practice, Des Moines, Iowa
Adjunct Professor
Department of Operative Dentistry
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
robert.margeas@broadcastmed.com
