Dentists Commonly Work with Autistic Individuals (With or Without Autism Training)
Since autistic individuals typically have difficulty during dental visits, it is natural that autism and Dentist go hand in hand. With a rising diagnosis rate of autism, it is extremely valuable for Dental Practices to consider specializing in this area, or to at least receive specific training, in order to support autistic individuals.
It’s important to appreciate and understand any sensory issue that an autistic individual will face in your office. Any visual, auditory, olfactory, taste, texture or even tactile unwanted stimuli may cause overstimulation and the dental treatment becomes difficult to complete. This is why it is very important to have coping strategies for reducing sensory issues to make the dental appointment proceed at a smoother pace.
Some common characteristics of autism involve difficulties with social interaction and communication. However, you need to build a channel to communicate with autistic patients. You are required to understand how each child with autism communicates. Many autistic individuals can also exhibit hearing or speech difficulties. It is sometimes difficult for an autistic child to follow directions, articulate wants and needs, or learn new things. Therefore, it is essential for a pediatric dentist to be aware of the manner each autistic individual communicates by through observation of the child or input from the parents.
Becoming a Certified Autism Center™ will provide a better understanding of the behavior of autistic patients. Consequently, it is easier to shape the desired behavior at your office to meet children’s dental needs; not to mention gain parents’ trust and cooperation.
Beyond the clinical realm, home care for autistic pqatients is essential. Equipping yourself as a dentist professional for autistic individuals gives you the tools needed to train and help the families provide the care needed at home to make your treatment a success. The training you and your staff will enable you to guide your patient and their families’ needs.
In short, Certified Autism Center™ certification can have a large impact on autistic patients, their families, and above all you as a healthcare provider.
Ultimately what you gain from the certification is even more love and more compassion as a “special dentist professional” that can go above and beyond the normal call for duty to serve.
If you think autism training is right for you and your team then getting started is an easy process.
Review the program here.
As a Dental Practice, becoming certified in autism will provide a solid foundation of credibility and expertise in the field.
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