Why it matters?
Autism inclusivity in dentistry is not just important—it’s essential. Many individuals on the autism spectrum face unique challenges when visiting the dentist, including heightened sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and anxiety related to unfamiliar environments or procedures. Traditional dental practices often overlook these needs, leading to negative experiences that can discourage individuals and families from seeking regular dental care.
Inclusive dental practices recognize and accommodate these differences, creating an environment where neurodivergent patients feel safe, understood, and respected. By doing so, dental professionals can significantly improve the patient experience and overall oral health outcomes.
Moreover, autism-inclusive dentistry fosters trust—not only with the patient but with their caregivers as well. Families often feel anxious about how their loved one will be treated or whether their needs will be met. When a dental practice demonstrates awareness and empathy, it builds a foundation for long-term, consistent care.
Beyond individual benefits, autism inclusivity reflects a broader commitment to equity in healthcare. It sends a message that all patients, regardless of neurological differences, deserve compassionate, high-quality treatment. It also challenges the status quo, encouraging ongoing education and sensitivity training for dental professionals.
Inclusion isn’t just a moral obligation—it’s a path toward better care, better outcomes, and a more just healthcare system. By embracing autism awareness in dentistry, we move closer to a world where everyone can smile with confidence.
Autistic individuals often experience sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and anxiety—especially in unfamiliar or clinical settings.
Dental practices can be overwhelming due to bright lights, noise from tools, touch, and routine disruption.
Autistic patients are more likely to have difficulty accessing dental care, leading to worse oral health outcomes.
What are we doing to make Aloe Vera Dental Studio an autism friendly dental practice?
Let’s break it down;
Communication skills – Our team have received training to use clear literal language (avoiding idioms like ‘This will only take a second!’) Also speaking calmy, directly and allowing extra time for responses.
The use of visual aids such as photos, drawings or videos, social stories or written plans can also be really helpful with autistic patients.
Sensory Environment – Quiet waiting room (which for us, it usually is! We always like to keep a calm and relaxing environment for all patients). Also the option to wait outside or in the car if preferred. We make extra effort to close doors to all other rooms to keep the noise level to a minimum.
Patients can be asked to bring along their noise cancelling headphones if the patient find it helps.
Our team will ensure that they let patients know what to expect with each step (Sound, feeling, smell)
Appointment Planning – We advise booking the first or last appointment of the day as it is generally quieter.
We are happy to provide a pre-visit tour, photo or video tour. Please talk to a member of staff and we are happy to help with this.
We have a practice gallery online, however for a more up-to-date, detailed photo, please ask a member of the team https://www.aloeveradental.co.uk/practice-gallery
Using a timetable or countdown is also very helpful for some patients with autism.
There are countdown websites that can be really useful for this; https://www.timeanddate.com/countdown/create OR paper calendar’s that are printed if preferred.
Patients are encouraged to bring their lanyard and fidget/sensory toys if they find this helpful. Everyone is different and different things work for different people.
Collaborated with parents/carers is absolute key in providing a great experience for our autistic patients. We maintain a non-judgmental and patient attitude with all of our patients.
Every autistic person is different—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
