Title: Developmental or Behavioral Disorders
Course: DEH 2821 Medically-Compromised Patient > Section: Module 4 - Developmental or Behavioral Disorders

Introduction

Patients with cognitive disabilities or developmental conditions may lack the ability to understand and assume responsibility for appropriate oral health practices. This places them at a higher risk for oral diseases. A positive patient-dental hygienist relationship based on trust, understanding, cooperation and empathy, should be established to help the patient attain and maintain optimum oral health.

Growth abnormalities may adversely affect oral health. This may increase the need for professional oral health visits. The dental hygienist has the opportunity to provide treatment for the patient and information for the caregiver that will support overall health.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Explain the goal of behavior guidance.
- Discuss the use of positive stabilization in the care of patients with behavioral disorders.
- Identify and define key terms and concepts related to the patient with a developmental disorder.
- Develop communication skills to interact with the patient’s parent or caregiver.

Readings & Resources

The Patient with a Developmental or Behavioral Disorder, Chapter 60, Wilkins

Special Care: An Oral Health Professional’s Guide to Serving Young Children with Special Health Care Needs Module 5: Behavior Guidance

Dental Toolkit

Assignments and Activities

- Post in the Module 4 Discussion Board.
- Complete the Module 4 Caregiver Dialogue Group Project.
- Complete the Module 4 Quiz.