Treating The Dental Patient With A Developmental Disorder

Raposa, a dental hygienist and mother of a son with autism, and Perlman (pediatric dentistry, Boston U.) offer this useful 14-chapter guide for practicing and student pediatric dentists, general dentists, and dental hygienists to treating and communicating with dental patients with developmental and intellectual disorders. Pediatric and general dentists from the US and Canada review major types of disabilities--autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, tic disorder, dyspraxia, cerebral palsy, psychiatric disorders, cleft lip and palate, spina bifida, fetal alcohol syndrome, and visual, hearing, speech, and learning disabilities--then explain how to gather personal information, medical histories, and information about dental experiences and oral habits; provide behavioral supports, and supports to older adults with disabilities; make treatment accommodations; and understand overall health. They address aspects of the dental exam and hygiene appointment, restorative treatment in the office and hospital setting, office-based sedation, general anesthesia, community-based interventions, practice management, and the long-term impact on the practice, patient, and families. Annotation c2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Karen A. Raposa, RDH, MBA is a registered dental hygienist and mother of a son with autism. She has written textbook chapters, magazine articles, and continuing education materials on patients with autism and developmental disabilities. Ms. Raposa lectures internationally at professional dental and dental hygiene meetings.
Steven P. Perlman, DDS, MScD, DHL (Hon) is Global Clinical Director of the Special Olympics Special Smiles program. He also is Clinical Professor of Pediatric Dentistry at the Boston University School of Dental Medicine and works in private practice in Lynn, Massachusetts.