Supporting Oral Health Among the Visually Impaired
Oral health professionals will likely encounter patients with age-related macular degeneration in the clinical setting. Visual impairment can impact oral health in many ways. Take this quiz to test your knowledge about this disease and how treatment may need to be modified to meet the needs of this population.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of low vision and blindness among adults 50 and older.
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AMD is a painless condition characterized by deterioration of the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.
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The macula, located in the center of the retina, is the least sensitive part of the retina.
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Dry or atrophic AMD is more common than wet AMD and occurs in approximately what percentage of cases?
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While the exact cause of AMD is unknown, age is a key risk factor.
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Modifications for the dental team to consider when treating visually impaired patients include: speaking clearly while facing the patient; creating medical/dental history forms, brochures, and other printed materials in a large, bold print; and offering to assist the patient when filling out forms.
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Dental hygienists can recommend oral hygiene aids according to the patient’s degree of visual impairment, such as power toothbrushes, double-headed toothbrushes, denture brushes with suction cups to attach to the sink surface, oral irrigators, and wall-mounted holders for toothbrushes and paste for easy access.
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Supporting Oral Health Among the Visually Impaired
Not bad, but there’s room to grow when it comes to understanding how to support oral health among the visually impaired. Consider reading more about this important facet of dental hygiene care. Good luck!
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