Principal Investigators:
Abrielle Lamphere, Clinical Assistant Professor, Allied Dental Education, School of Dentistry.
Jennifer Bryant, Program Director, Allied Dental Education, School of Dentistry.
Project Title:
Integrating Acclimation Therapy into Dentistry Curriculum
Funding Level:
$5,000
Abstract:
This project integrates an innovative Acclimation Therapy Program into DHYG 408: Advanced Practicum of Community Dental Health, enhancing senior dental hygiene students’ learning through hands-on fieldwork experiences under direct mentorship. The program focuses on preparing students to deliver inclusive care to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), who face significant barriers to dental care due to sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and anxiety.The project incorporates acclimation therapy principles into the practicum, providing students with:
- Training in evidence-based techniques like gradual exposure, sensory integration, and behavior management.
- Mentorship from licensed professionals experienced in treating IDD populations.
- Practical application of skills in community clinics.
Patients with IDD often struggle to access compassionate, patient-centered care. This program addresses a critical gap in dental hygiene education by equipping students with skills to overcome these barriers and foster improved oral health outcomes.
Intended Outcomes:
- Enhanced confidence and leadership skills in managing diverse patient needs.
- Strengthening the program’s public health mission and fostering a culture of inclusion and innovation.
- Enriching teaching methods through mentorship, experiential learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
By integrating acclimation therapy into the curriculum, this project equips students to address healthcare disparities and promotes equity and inclusivity in dental practice.
