PC-004 - Occupational Therapy and Dentistry: Evidence-Based Holistic Integration

Occupational therapy (OT) extends into primary care, including dentistry, aiding individuals with special health care needs (PSHCNs). Patients with SHCNs often encounter oral health challenges due to sensory sensitivities and service gaps, resulting in distress. This discussion examines evidence backing inter-professional collaboration, showcasing OT's unique impact in dentistry. Patient cases highlight benefits of sensory adapted dental settings and evidence-based strategies, seen at the inaugural TeamSmile Inclusive Buffalo event. OTs, skilled in sensory adaptation, are pivotal in oral health care. Leveraging the Person-Environment-Occupation model fosters OT-dentistry collaboration, ultimately improving oral health outcomes for PSHCNs.