“Geriatric tooth fairy” launches online certification program

Sonya Dunbar, MPH, RDH, known as the “geriatric tooth fairy,” is a geriatric oral health expert with more than two decades of experience in long-term care facilities who recently launched the online program, Geriatric Oral Care Certification.

The program, accredited by the American Mobile and Teledentistry Alliance (AMTA), is uniquely tailored for any dentist, hygienist, and dental assistant who is committed to improving oral care for seniors living in long-term care facilities.

Addressing a critical need in senior health care

The Geriatric Oral Care Certification Program addresses a neglected aspect of senior care in long-term care facilities nationwide. "Oral health is a window to one's overall health, especially in senior years," Dunbar said. "Poor oral hygiene can lead to severe health complications, high-risk diseases, and comorbidities such as nutritional deficiencies and systemic diseases. This informative program is a crucial step in bridging this care gap."

A growing body of research shows a correlation between poor oral health and significant health issues such as heart disease, dementia, pneumonia, diabetes, and stroke, which are prevalent in older adults. The lack of proper dental care in long-term facilities increases these risks, making skilled geriatric oral care crucial.

Dunbar's program examines the unique challenges seniors face, including mobility issues, complex medical histories, and cognitive impairments such as dementia. Dental professionals learn about the aging mouth, effective strategies for oral health assessments, and care planning.

The Geriatric Oral Care Certification Program emphasizes interprofessional communication and collaboration, explaining how dental professionals can work with caregivers and medical staff to ensure comprehensive senior care.

In addition, the program offers insights into addressing barriers to oral care for the elderly, including socioeconomic challenges, cultural disparities, and the identification of oral neglect and elder abuse. "Empowering dental professionals with the right tools and knowledge to serve the aging population is not just a professional duty, it's a moral obligation," Dunbar said.

Comprehensive curriculum

Sonya brings extensive experience to this self-paced, accredited program with six detailed 60-minute modules. These modules cover the mindset of geriatric patients, oral health assessments, the aging mouth, medical-dental collaboration, and special needs care. The course aims to not only educate, motivate, and communicate the importance of proper oral care, but also equip dental professionals with practical skills and knowledge.

This program educates and discusses how to make geriatric oral care profitable, ensuring that compassionate care is also sustainable. Upon completion, participants will receive a certification validating their proficiency in geriatric oral care.

With more than 100,000 followers on social media, Dunbar's influence and expertise have created high demand for this program, which is essential for dental professionals specializing in geriatric oral care. “Providing oral care for those who cannot do it themselves is the greatest honor,” Dunbar said.

Visit geriatriccertification.com/ce-course or contact [email protected].