Teaching Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) in dental hygiene education is essential for bridging the gap between clinical care and real-world patient oral health outcomes. This session will provide a practical framework for integrating an SDOH project into dental hygiene community oral health courses. Participants will explore strategies to guide students in identifying and addressing health disparities within diverse populations. Attendees will be provided with actionable steps to implement an SDOH-focused project that enhances curriculum relevance and prepares students for equity-centered care.
Learning Objectives:
Define social determinants of health and explain their relevance to dental hygiene education and patient care.
Identify key components for designing and implementing an SDOH-focused project within their own curriculum.
Develop an initial action plan to pilot an SDOH project in their community oral health courses.
