Treating patients with Alzheimer’s disease in the dental office involves more than simply struggling with the execution of certain procedures. While this is a challenge that needs to be understood and navigated, we can do more to prevent this condition. Exciting discoveries have shone a light on connections between Alzheimer’s disease and oral health. Through these findings, clinical care, and sharing the message of hope in prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, dental professionals can decrease the number of people diagnosed with this life-robbing illness.
Educational objectives
- Examine strategies that can help dental teams to deliver care more effectively to patients in the early to middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Describe the link between Alzheimer’s disease and oral health.
- Restate dentistry’s role in reducing patients’ risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Prioritize conversations regarding how patients can maintain brain health at any age.
About the Author
Angie Stone, BS, RDH, BLS, CDP, is an international speaker, author of Dying from Dirty Teeth, researcher, clinician, and business owner. Her interest in Alzheimer’s disease stems from watching three generations of family members lose their lives to this devastating process and providing dental hygiene services to memory care residents. As a brain longevity specialist, she teaches people to maintain their brain health and reduce chances of dementia. Contact Angie via maintainyourbrain.net.