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Updated: Mar 1, 2026

Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
Communities in action: developing a dental ambassador training programme for adults with learning disability
R Witton1, R Potterton1, W Smith2
1Plymouth University Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, The John Bull Building, Plymouth Science Park, Plymouth, PL6 8BU, UK.
Abstract:
Adults with learning disabilities may be at higher risk of poor oral health. The community outreach programme attached to Plymouth University Peninsula Dental School used established links with local agencies for this group to try out an intervention using service users as dental ambassadors. A programme was developed to meet the needs of the group and training in oral health key messages was provided along with support in presentation skills. Early evaluation shows promise in terms of feasibility, interest and improved self-care. Public health competencies being illustrated: Strategic leadership, communication, teaching and training, and collaborative working for health and oral health improvement.
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