one thing a dentist needs is the common sense to know that palsied hands
find floss and picks very hard to hold much less control. and don't be
overly critical of the fact that one can't floss. i fell like saying
"duh!!!" "take a look at me foer petes sake, don't you have an ounce of
sense?"
i use an interplac to help make up for it. sugested by a dentist with common
sense.

-----Original Message-----
From: Michael A. Joyce [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Friday, March 03, 2000 2:30 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: **Help** 300 Dentists


Dear Listmates,

In about 3 weeks I am honored to speak to 300 dentists [the 12th Annual
Conference  of the Federation of Special Needs Organizations in Dentistry]
on the needs of people with developmental disabilities especially the needs
of people with cerebral palsy.

I need your help in identifying some of the needs, consumer concerns and
viewpoints of patients with cerebral palsy.

For example:

1.  If you had a denial appointment, what would you think about the night
before?

2.  What are major barriers to you in obtaining proper dental care?

3.  How can dentists be trained so they can deal with you?  Would different
equipment help?

4. What examples do you have of good or bad care at the dentists office?

This is your chance to speak out.  I will use your input in my speech and
need some of your ideas in how to improve dentistry for people with
cerebral palsy.


E-mail me privately at [log in to unmask] with your comments,
concerns and "byting" stories.

Thank you in advance for your help.

Mick Joyce,
Health P        romotion Project