TOPIC

Social Media and Scary DIY Dental Trends

SPEAKER

Cheryl Calmis, RDH, BS, MEd

CONTINUING EDUCATION
2 CE Units (Core)

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) dentistry isn’t anything new. For hundreds of years people have been using at-home remedies for dental treatments. With the popularity of the internet and social media, information on simpler, faster, and cheaper alternatives to going to the dentist are becoming more enticing and easier for the general public to discover. Without any prior knowledge or training, people are attempting these DIY treatments without being aware of the negative outcomes that may result in serious and possible lasting implications to their dental health. This course will give you the tools you need to be able to educate your patients on the importance of seeking professional dental care and to not attempt DIY dentistry.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

• Discuss the role of social media on the popularity of DIY dentistry and the motivation for trying a DIY trend.
• List what topics of DIY dentistry information are available for viewing.
• Explain the risks of DIY dentistry.
• Develop strategies to educate patients on the importance of seeking professional dental care for their dental needs.

SPEAKER BIO

Cheryl Calmis, RDH, BS, MEd, is a practicing dental hygienist with over 30 years of clinical practice in the areas of periodontics, laser therapy, and Guided Bioflim Therapy. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and dental hygiene. Inspired by her love of teaching all things dental, she graduated with honors with a MEd in Instructional Design. In addition to practicing clinically, she has written articles for Today’s RDH, Cocofloss, featured KOL for Inside Dental Hygiene, and recently celebrated 7 years as a Professional Educator for Waterpik^TM. She is a member of ADHA, CDHA and the AAP Dental Hygienist Recognition Program.

*This course contains social media videos on DIY dentistry followed by published research illuminating the dangers of DIY dentistry.