Contour is the only news source dedicated to sharing the dental-student narrative and addressing their holistic needs as they prepare to enter the workforce as dental professionals. ASDA members receive Contour 10 times a year, with combined issues in June/July and November/December.
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November/December 2025 - Disability Awareness in Dentistry
The holiday season reminds us to support those who need a little extra help, but a dentist must be ready and able to care for patients with disabilities all year long. This issue of Contour is full of wonderful ideas on how to treat patients with special needs.
Don’t miss the powerful and inspiring story of Miriam Villa (Midwestern ’27), “When Autism and Dentistry Collide,” which shares her personal journey navigating dental school while raising a child with special needs. Marjorie Wolfe’s (Louisville ’27) “Part of the Plan” shows how her life experience loving and caring for a sister with Down Syndrome has helped her become a stronger advocate for individuals with varying abilities. Two articles — “Managing Vasovagal Syncope in the Dental Office (Maximus Morton, Boston ’27) and “Sorting Facts from Fear in Dentistry” (Nithika Sivakumar ’26) — provide fresh, practical ideas on helping patients battling strong fear and anxiety.
“As a student it can be daunting to work with a patient or person with disabilities as you may need to adjust yourself to meet their individual considerations,” writes Editor in Chief Amrit Saini (North Carolina ’27). “This issue highlights some of the many dental students who have hands-on experience working with patients and people with disabilities.”
Check out this issue of Contour and expand your awareness around caring for special patients with special needs.