Going to the dentist can be hard. It can be even harder for individuals with disabilities and their families who must constantly advocate for their needs. However, there is a tool that can help make dental visits easier and more comfortable. It’s called My Dental Care Passport.

This easy-to-use form helps individuals and families tell their dental team the most important things about them. These are the things that can help a dental visit go smoothly, like how someone communicates, what makes them nervous, and how the dentist can help them feel safe. Let’s learn how to use it!

How to Use the Passport

Step 1: Download the Form

Go to the Pathways to Oral Health website and find the My Dental Care Passport. You can print it out or fill it out online.

Step 2: Fill It Out

My Dental Care Passport is unique to you. Fill out whatever you want your dental team to know. You can do this with a parent, caregiver, or helper. It might take some time to complete at first, but it will help save time in the future. 

Step 3: Share It with the Dental Team

My Dental Care Passport works best if you can get the form to the dental office before the visit. You should discuss with your dental office the best way to do this- email it, mail it, or drop it off. This helps the dental team prepare for your visit.

Step 4: Update It When Things Change

If something changes, like you start using a new communication device or you think of another thing that can help you relax, update the Passport! You can use the form again and again.

Why It Helps

The My Dental Care Passport is great because:

• It helps the dental team understand you or your loved one better.
• It removes the need for you to tell your story over and over each time you visit the dentist
• It helps everyone feel more ready.

You can find My Dental Care Passport and handy User Guides here. 

Let’s work together to help everyone have a positive time at the dentist!