Oral

The provision of patient-centered care within the context of family and community is an important objective for oral health care professionals. Providers must understand the determinants of health by recognizing behavioral, social, and cultural factors that influence oral health status. Dental schools and dental hygiene programs are integrating Service-Learning approaches into their curriculums. Community Partnerships provide opportunities for reciprocal learning between the students and the community. This session will highlight the unique components of successful Service-Learning programs in dental schools and dental hygiene programs throughout the country.

Session Objectives: 1. Discuss the unique components of successful service-Learning programs in dental schools and dental hygiene programs throughout the country that integrate culturally responsive care for diverse patients and vulnerable population groups. 2. Identify active learning approaches and student’s self reflections that relate to the determinants of health and recognize behavioral, social, and cultural factors influencing oral health status. 3. Describe Community Partnerships that provide opportunities for reciprocal learning between the students and the community and service-learning efforts that contribute to the dental and public health workforce better prepared the meet the oral health needs of individuals and communities.