Dental care for people with disabilities and additional support needs

Everyone deserves respectful dental care. People with disabilities and additional support needs may need extra help with oral health, and may find visits easier with some preparation. The tips below are general. Ask the clinic what adjustments it can offer.

Why a little extra planning helps

Some people find cleaning teeth physically hard, or have conditions that make decay and gum problems more likely. Teeth can be crowded or shaped in ways that are harder to clean, and some people have habits such as grinding or clenching. Regular care and early checks help catch problems before they cause pain.

Before the visit

• Tell the clinic what helps: how you prefer to communicate, any sensitivity to lights, sounds or touch, and mobility needs.
• Share health information and a list of medicines.
• Ask about a quieter time of day if that would help.
• Ask about a get-to-know visit with no treatment, so the person can meet the team and see the room and chair.
• Plan who will come as a support person, and pack comfort items such as music or headphones.

It can help to write down the key points in advance, such as communication preferences, health information and what has helped before. That saves repeating them and helps the team prepare.

During the visit

Ask the team to explain each step before it happens, to go at a comfortable pace, and to agree a stop signal such as a raised hand. A support person can help with reassurance when the patient wants that.

Afterwards, talk about what went well and what to change next time. It can take time to become comfortable at the dental office, so patience and practice both help.

Caring for teeth at home

• Brush every day. Some people need a caregiver to brush for them, or a brush adapted to their grip.
• Use a soft brush. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste, or just water if toothpaste is a problem for swallowing.
• Clean between the teeth every day. Floss holders or picks can make this easier.
• Visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning.

Ask your dental team to show you techniques and tools that suit the person's abilities.

When to see a dentist

• Signs of pain, such as refusing food or touching the face or jaw
• Bleeding, swollen or sore gums
• An injury to the mouth or teeth
• Bad breath that does not go away

Get urgent help now if swelling is spreading across your face or neck, or if you have trouble breathing or swallowing.

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Educational information. It does not replace advice from your dentist or doctor.