Arizona Dentists Trained to Treat Dementia Patients
New workshops help dental providers learn strategies for supporting patients living with dementia.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Should dental providers be required to receive specialized training for treating patients with dementia?
Banner Health and Delta Dental of Arizona have launched a joint initiative to provide dental professionals with specialized training on treating patients with dementia. This program, supported by a two-year grant, aims to improve oral care access for the growing number of people living with memory-related conditions across Arizona.
Why it matters
The initiative addresses a critical gap in dental care for the aging population by equipping practitioners with tools to navigate the unique behavioral and physical challenges of dementia. Because consistent oral hygiene is often neglected in later-stage cognitive decline, this training integrates dental care more effectively into the broader support system for these patients.
The initiative expands the proven Banner Dementia ECHO model to dental providers, building upon the established HOPE oral health protocol currently active in 28 acute-care facilities across six states.
The players
Banner Health
A nonprofit healthcare system that provides clinical care and leads research into Alzheimer's disease and geriatric health.
Delta Dental of Arizona
A dental benefits provider that invests in community health initiatives and oral health education.
The details
Dental providers receive personalized guidance from a multidisciplinary team of dementia specialists through interactive workshops. Participants gain research-backed strategies and have the opportunity to present real-world patient cases for clinical review. By adapting established dementia care protocols to a dental setting, the program helps providers manage patient anxiety and oral health needs more effectively.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: Dental workshop at Banner Sun Health Research Institute.
October 2, 2026: Dental workshop at Banner Desert Medical Center.
9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Workshop operating hours.
Health Landscape
This program extends the reach of the established Banner Dementia ECHO model by adapting its collaborative care framework specifically for dental practitioners. It represents a shift toward integrating specialized dementia support into outpatient services beyond traditional acute-care settings.
If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, it is worth discussing with your dentist how they adapt their procedures for patients with cognitive impairment. Bringing these questions to your next appointment can help ensure your provider is prepared to support your loved one's specific oral health needs.
The takeaway
Effective dementia care requires support from a wide range of medical specialists, including your dental provider. Ask your primary care physician for a referral to dentists experienced in geriatric or memory care to ensure the best possible health outcomes.
Further reading
For more on managing long-term care needs, visit our Alzheimer’s section.
More information
View upcoming workshops and event details on the Banner health event calendar.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AZ Big Media.
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Should dental providers be required to receive specialized training for treating patients with dementia?
