Visiting the dentist’s office can be a nerve-wracking experience for many patients. Yet, for those with intellectual, physical, and developmental disabilities, dental anxiety can be even more problematic. Adults with disabilities often struggle with greater dental challenges, so finding a solution to ease these nerves is imperative. Fortunately, there are several ways a dentist can help patients remain calm while in the treatment chair.
Offering Complete, Honest Explanations
Before any procedure or dental treatment, the patient’s dentist can provide thorough details about what will happen. For many individuals, step-by-step explanations can reduce anxiety and help them feel more comfortable. The dentist might even adopt a gradual approach, if needed, to help a patient see and understand what will occur when treatment begins.
Offering Dental Sedation
Dental sedation is a common approach that many dentists take when treating adults with autism who experience anxiety. Oral conscious sedation and general anesthesia are common methods that allow for a calmer, more comfortable experience, one that the patient will appreciate and enjoy.
With oral conscious sedation, the dentist will prescribe a medication to be taken before the appointment. This will induce a deep state of relaxation, making it easier for team members to complete the necessary procedure. With general anesthesia, the patient will be fully sedated and asleep throughout treatment.
Creating an Environment Designed to Meet Their Needs
Adults with autism may struggle with sensory-related triggers, many of which can make visiting the dentist’s office hard. Working closely with the dentist to create an accommodating environment that meets their unique needs can reduce cause for concern. A few ways this can be accomplished include:
- Dimming overhead chair lights
- Offering patient amenities, such as noise-canceling headphones and sunglasses
- Providing additional comfort items or allowing them to bring in a blanket, pillow, or another similar item
Our team can also offer a show-and-tell approach for using the various dental instruments required.
Building a Trusting Relationship
Finding a dentist who will take the time to build a trusting relationship with each patient is vital. Understanding their needs and how they react to certain situations allows the dentist to adjust accordingly and ensure successful visits every time.
If you care for someone with autism, this can be essential to their oral healthcare journey. Having a dentist that they can trust can make appointments less stressful.
Every patient deserves to feel safe, comfortable, and at ease while at the dentist’s office. Partnering with a dentist to establish positive methods and a compassionate approach can increase the likelihood that everyone stays calm at each appointment.
About the Practice
Disability Dental is a practice devoted to helping adults with disabilities improve their oral and overall health. Equipped with dentists who are expertly trained to treat individuals with intellectual, physical, and developmental needs, we go the extra mile to create positive experiences for everyone who visits our office. If you are a caregiver of someone with autism, and they suffer from severe dental anxiety, visit our website or call (972) 296-0101 to learn more.