Webinar
Registrations Closed
Presented by
Eric Z. Shapira
DDS, MAGD, MA, MHA
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Course Description
Geriatric Dentistry, Special Patient Care
This live webinar offers a dynamic and deeply humanistic exploration of aging and oral health through the lens of geriatric dentistry. Led by Dr. Shapira—a seasoned clinician and educator—participants are guided through an engaging discussion on the physiological, psychological, and sociocultural dimensions of aging. Drawing from decades of personal practice, academic teaching, and international experiences, Dr. Shapira emphasizes the importance of empathy, perception, communication, and adaptability when treating older adults.
The presentation blends practical clinical knowledge with reflections on identity, change, systemic health, and the patient-provider relationship. It is punctuated by real-world anecdotes, philosophical insights, and clinical case reviews. Students are encouraged to critically examine their assumptions, cultivate observational acuity, and embrace the patient as a whole person—not just a set of teeth.
“The educational teaching methodology used in this course is live, interactive lecture presented via Zoom webinar with an accompanying PowerPoint presentation. Both the live webinar and the PowerPoint presentation incorporate a variety of audio and visual cues to enhance audience members’ understanding and retention of key concepts. In addition, question and answer periods are provided for at the conclusion of each section of the live webinar.”
Course Objectives
At the completion of this course the participants should be able to:
- Explain the physiological changes associated with aging and their impact on oral health.
- Discuss the cultural and individual variability in how aging is perceived and experienced.
- Recognize the most common systemic conditions and medications affecting dental care in older adults.
- Evaluate the relationship between periodontal disease, edentulism, and systemic health.
- Apply techniques to build trust and rapport with geriatric patients.
- Interpret nonverbal cues and manage difficult conversations with patients who are resistant or cognitively impaired.
- Implement environmental and behavioral strategies to reduce fall risk in elderly patients.
- Identify intrinsic and extrinsic fall risk factors during clinical assessments.
- Reflect on ageism, elder abuse, and economic disparities in elder care.
- Adapt care plans with sensitivity to personal history, belief systems, and autonomy.
- Understand the interconnectedness of oral health and overall wellness.
- Develop patient-centered strategies that respect the full spectrum of aging experiences.
