Highest Award
"The Ohio Sate University Oral Health for Seniors in Appalachia"
The Ohio State University College of Dentistry established a Geriatric Program several decades ago in response to the growing dental needs associated with this population as well as in an effort to train future dentists regarding proper treatment techniques. While 23% of 65 to 74 year olds are affected by severe gum disease and 30% are toothless, most dentists do not have adequate training in providing care to the geriatric population. Moreover, there are also financial and proximity barriers to dental care as well. The Ohio State University College of Dentistry Geriatrics Program expanded and reorganized in 1998 in order to assume a greater role in the pre-doctoral dental curriculum and to increase community outreach and engagement activities in effort to meet the evolving needs of the geriatric population.
In 2001, an Appalachian Outreach Program was created by a collaborative effort involving the OSU College of Dentistry Geriatrics Program, The OSU Extension Service for Southeastern Ohio, the Area Agency on Aging #7, Inc. and the local dental societies in Southern Ohio. This weekly program visits community senior centers of each of the 10 participating Appalachian counties in the southeastern Ohio region (Adams, Brown, Galia, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Scioto and Vinton). The population of these counties totals over 500,000 people, and residents age 65+ constitute more than 13% of the population. Upon arrival, four dental units are set up and registered patients are physically evaluated for dental treatment. Comprehensive dental care is delivered under supervision of an accompanying geriatric dentistry faculty.
During the two-hour van rides to southern Ohio, students interact with faculty and discuss both dental and cultural issues. Four pre-doctoral senior dental students and two dental hygiene students are able to treat at least 15 geriatric dental patients per day compared to their regular clinical schedules within the College of Dentistry. After spending several hours treating patients, students share their experiences during the return trip back to Columbus.
Meritorious Award
"Boston Oral Health Equity Project"
The Oral Health Equity Project aims to improve the oral health status of low-income Boston elders living in public and subsidized housing, increase access to care, especially preventive care, and eliminate barriers to oral health services encountered by this vulnerable population. Since 2002, the Boston Public Health Commission and the Boston Housing Authority have been collaborating with students and faculty from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, the Tufts School of Dental Medicine and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Forsyth Dental Hygiene Program to provide free screenings, oral health education, fluoride applications, denture labeling and referrals for follow-up care. OHEP was established in 2002 as a community-based initiative in response to concerns raised by elder public housing residents and Boston City Councilor, Michael Ross. The Boston Public Health Commission coordinates the activities of the partnership.
In collaboration with OHEP partners, 66 sites were selected for screenings between February 2004 and February 2006. Sites were chosen based on the concentration of elders with limited access to oral health services in Boston and consisted primarily of ethnic and racial minorities. Elders identified as needing care are referred to a dental clinic of one of the partner schools for comprehensive care and utilization of case management services. Residents voluntarily participate in services that include screening, education, fluoride varnish application, referrals and case management. Each client is given a resource kit which includes educational materials on caring for dentures, dry mouth, fluoride, oral cancer prevention and information on how and where to access low- or no-cost cleaning and treatment services. The kit is available in seven languages. In addition, each client receives a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. If needed, a denture kit and brush are provided. Medical interpreters are hired to guarantee that all participants have access to the educational component of the project.
