CONTINUING EDUCATION The Autism Reality Experience (ARE) is transforming how dental professionals approach care for neurodivergent patients, particularly those with sensory sensitivities. While originally developed to simulate the challenges faced by individuals with autism, ARE provides insights that are equally valuable for addressing sensory processing difficulties. By fostering a deeper understanding of these challenges, ARE equips dental teams to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all patients. One of the most exciting developments tied to ARE is the opportunity for dental practices to enhance their services through thoughtful tools and strategies, including sensory-friendly solutions like Neuro-Sensory Bags. These bags, available exclusively through Second Wind Dreams, offer a seamless way for dental practices to support neurodivergent patients while maintaining a professional and inclusive approach to care. Rethinking Dental Care for Neurodivergent Patients 1. Developing Empathy for Sensory Needs Empathy is the foundation of patientcentered care, and the Autism Reality Experience is designed to foster this essential quality. By immersing participants in the sensory and communication challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, ARE helps dental professionals understand the underlying causes of patient behaviors like restlessness, fear, or resistance. This experience encourages dental teams to reframe these behaviors as natural responses to overwhelming stimuli, rather than as defiance. This shift in perspective can lead to more compassionate, patient-focused care, creating a sense of trust and understanding that benefits both patients and their providers. 2. Creating Sensory-Friendly Environments ARE emphasizes the importance of tailoring dental environments to meet the needs of neurodivergent patients. While each practice will need to evaluate its specific setting, there are many ways to reduce sensory triggers and make patients feel more comfortable. Suggestions include: Adjusting Lighting: Exploring options like dimmable lights to reduce visual overstimulation. Reducing Noise: Creating quieter treatment spaces or offering ways to minimize disruptive sounds. Promoting Comfort: Providing calming elements to help patients self-regulate during procedures. These adjustments could be part of a larger strategy to create a more welcoming and inclusive space for all patients, helping practices stand out as leaders in sensory-friendly care. 3. Enhancing Communication Clear communication is critical for ensuring positive dental experiences, especially for neurodivergent patients. ARE highlights strategies for adapting communication styles, including: Using visual aids to explain procedures in simple, easy-tounderstand steps. Offering pre-appointment introductions to help patients become familiar with the office. Simplifying language and using nonverbal cues to support understanding. These techniques could help patients feel more in control during appointments, reducing anxiety and building trust with their dental team. Empowering Dental Practices with Neuro-Sensory Bags Second Wind Dreams is proud to offer Neuro-Sensory Bags as part of its commitment to supporting neurodivergent individuals. These bags are specifically designed to enhance the dental experience by addressing sensory challenges and promoting patient comfort. When practices invest in NeuroSensory Bags, they gain access to a professionally curated resource that: The GDA was proud to introduce Second Wind Dreams and the Autism Reality Experience (ARE) to our members at the 2024 Fall Continuing Education Conference in Peachtree City. Their hands-on reality experience and discussion/debrief led by Melora Williams, MS, CMHT, CDP, DCCS gave everyone a real-life insight into what autistic patients may experience in your practice and how to create a more supportive atmosphere. They have graciously penned this article to provide some tips on how to rethink dental care for your neurodivergent patients. We plan to bring the ARE to the 2025 Annual Convention and Expo, and we hope you’ll check it out. — EMILY JACKSON Director of Continuing Education and Training REVOLUTIONIZING DENTAL CARE with the Autism Reality Experience (ARE) 46 | Jan 2025
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