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From left: Brandi Roeber, D.D.S., Fouad Salama, D.D.S., and Cherie Uchida, D.D.S. |
“Studies have shown that most dental providers are unable to meet the oral health care needs of this group,” said Fouad Salama, D.D.S., a professor with the UNMC College of Dentistry Pediatric Dental Residency program. “As a result, individuals with special needs have more dental disease than the rest of the population.”
Through a grant from the Nebraska Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities, Dr. Salama made an educational DVD that provides oral health information for parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs.
The DVD, “A Caregiver’s Guide to Oral Health Care for Persons with Special Needs,” includes product demonstrations using a variety of oral hygiene products and instructions on their use, common oral conditions, adaptive aids and helpful tips.
The video was made with the help of:
- Cherie Uchida, D.D.S., second-year UNMC pediatric dental resident;
- Brandi Roeber, D.D.S., recent graduate of the program;
- Paul Kawacz, video producer with UNMC ITS Video Services;
- The Munroe-Meyer Institute; and
- J.P. Lord School.
“We are very excited about the DVD and hope it provides parents and caregivers the necessary tools to meet the dental health needs of their children,” Dr. Uchida said.
“As a pediatric dentist, many of our patients have special medical conditions and need alternative methods for ensuring good oral hygiene,” Dr. Roeber said. “We are trained in using such methods, however, other dentists may not be as familiar and comfortable in doing so. This DVD can be useful for the dental community, as well.”
For more information about the DVD, contact Dr. Salama at (402) 559-2239.