Supporting Sensitive and Autistic Patients in Dental Settings by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

I've always found dental procedures extremely difficult emotionally and physically. It's a vulnerable position to be in, lying down with your mouth open, facing all the sensory-related challenges—noises, bright lights, smells, tastes—and the fear of pain, which is usually all heightened for me as an autistic HSP. Wanting to share my personal experience with a recent dental implant, I am highlighting how the empathetic actions of a dental assistant not only soothed me but also underscored the importance of educating dental practices in these compassionate approaches.

Preparing a Comforting Environment:

• Immediate Comfort Measures: The dental assistant prepared the chair with a blanket and pillow before I arrived, immediately setting a calming tone that helped ease my initial anxiety.

• Sensory Adjustments: Recognizing the potential sensory overload, the assistant provided sunglasses right away to protect my eyes from the intense overhead lighting, showcasing a thoughtful approach to sensory challenges.

Clear and Compassionate Communication:

• Detailed Explanations: Prior to the procedure, the assistant explained every step, tool, and sound I would encounter. This level of detailed communication helped me manage my anxiety and feel more prepared, reducing my startle response.

• Demonstrations: He showed me the equipment that would be used, including a device that would make a clicking sound inside my mouth, and demonstrated the noise beforehand to prepare me mentally.

Ongoing Engagement and Support:

• Attentive Check-ins: The assistant's frequent check-ins during the procedure reassured me, allowing for adjustments to ensure my continuous comfort.

• Addressing Physical Comfort: His thoughtful gestures, like applying chapstick to my sensitive lips throughout the procedure and gently wiping around my mouth, significantly reduced physical discomfort and conveyed a deep level of care.

Integrating Personal Comfort Devices:

• Using Apollo Neuro: In addition to these measures, I used my Apollo Neuro device, which helped manage my stress by delivering soothing vibrations. This wearable technology played a key role in keeping my anxiety at bay, highlighting its potential as a beneficial tool in stressful medical settings. I encourage practitioners to consider offering this during procedures!

Post-Procedure Care:

• Continued Compassion: The gentle care didn't end with the procedure; the assistant’s nurturing approach while assisting me afterward reinforced the comforting experience.

• Guidance for Recovery: He took his time and provided me with instructions for home care, and overall his empathetic nature brought me a lot of comfort.

• Self-Managed Post-Care Strategies: Upon returning home, I set no expectations for immediate activity, prepared smoothies and soft foods in advance, and practiced self-compassion. Reaching out to loved ones for emotional support and allowing myself several days free from work or other obligations helped facilitate a slower, more gentle recovery—something many sensitives may find beneficial.

This experience has brought me new awareness that there are specific areas within dental practices that require more education and sensitivity, especially when dealing with sensitive and neurodivergent patients. By adopting practices like preparing a soothing environment and sensory support, maintaining clear and compassionate communication, and considering the use of supportive technologies like the Apollo Neuro, dental professionals can greatly enhance the care experience for these patients. I encourage all dental professionals to integrate these thoughtful practices into their procedures, creating a more inclusive, understanding, and comforting environment for everyone.

Did you find this helpful? I love hearing from you in the comments!

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I’m Julie Bjelland, LMFT

A Licensed Psychotherapist, author, and founder of Sensitive Empowerment, specializing in high sensitivity and adult-diagnosed autism in women. I love developing tools that balance our sensitive nervous system, reduce challenges, and help us reach our fullest potential so we may excel in our unique talents. I’ve created a global hub of extensive support, including online courses, the Sensitive Empowerment Community—a nurturing sanctuary—a globally top-ranked podcast, articles, free webinars, and more. My passion is helping create a world where differences are embraced as strengths and celebrated. Learn more at JulieBjelland.com

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