Guest Post: How to Find A Dentist Who Has Experience Working with Patients With Disabilities
Editor's note: Greg from Dentably reached out wanting to provide more info on how to find a dentist as a person with a disability. We know the experience of finding a dentist who can accommodate disability is an issue and thought it might be helpful for our community to have this information. Let us know your thoughts, experiences, or if you have anything to add. - Katy, Digital Content Director
By: Dr. Greg Grillo
It can be difficult for individuals with disabilities to visit the dentist. That’s why it’s important to have the necessary information to find a great dentist to make the process easier. Dentists who have experience working with patients with disabilities are often the best equipped, but sometimes they can be difficult to find.
I have been practicing dentistry for more than 17 years and have helped patients find the right dentist who can accommodate their needs. Everyone deserves to find proper dental care and have a healthy mouth, and today I’m going to share my advice on how to find the right dentist for yourself or a loved one with a disability.
Talk Primary Health Care Provider
When looking for a dentist with experience in working with patients who have a disability, start by talking to a primary healthcare provider. They have an extensive network of other healthcare professionals in the area, and will know the your needs best. They will be able to help match you with a dentist who may be a good fit.
If you are having trouble being matched with a dentist, you can try using referral services to help you find a special needs dentist in your area. A quick google search will be able to lead you to local dental offices as well as visit the American Dental Association where you can search for dentists by location and specialty.
Ask Questions & Listen To The Dentist’s Answers
Once you’ve found a list of potential dentists and begin reaching out them, you will want to ask them questions about their experience. You want to find someone who is the perfect fit and a dentist who can confidently answer your questions in detail will help you feel more confident when making a decision. Here are some questions to start the conversation:
1. Are you comfortable working with a patient with additional needs?
You will want to find a dentist comfortable working with patients who have a disability and may have more needs during their appointment. If you are trying to find a dentist for your child, talk to pediatric dentists as they have 2-3 years of extra schooling and will be able to accommodate your child better on their visit.
2. What experience do you have working with patients with disabilities?
While speaking to a potential dentist, ask them if they’ve had experience working with patients who have disabilities. Ask what their experience was like, and listen for specific examples. Dentists with previous experience will have more knowledge overall of caring for patients and will generally be more accommodating.
3. Can you make any special accommodations during the appointment?
Every person has unique needs and you want to make sure those needs can be met, whatever they may be. Some common accommodations are having specific toothpaste flavors used, reducing waiting room times, and having the dental chair remain in the same position the entire visit. These may seem small but can make all the difference in ensuring the comfort of the patient.
No question is bad so be sure to ask anything that’s on your mind. You will feel more confident if you choose a dentist who can answer any and all questions you might have.
Never Give Up
It can be difficult for patients with disabilities to visit the dentist. However, finding the right one can make this experience much easier. Ask potential dentists plenty of questions, talk to your primary care provider, and never give up on finding the perfect fit. It may be difficult at times, but it will be worth it in the end to be confident and comfortable at the dental office.