Going to the dentist can be overwhelming for individuals with disabilities. But with the right planning, it can go smoothly. Here are some practical tips to help you feel more confident before, during, and after the dental appointment. 

Before the Dental Visit

Call the dental office and discuss the My Dental Care Passport
    Call the dental office before the appointment. Inform them about any special needs and let them know that you have completed the My Dental Care Passport. Let them know this document will help them understand things like: 

• How the individual talks and understands things
• What makes them feel calm
• Any past dental visits that were hard

Some other questions you could ask are:

• How long will the visit take?
• Can we wait in a quiet room?
• Can we bring comfort items?

This helps everyone feel ready.

Patients and caregivers can visit the My Dental Passport page on the Pathways to Oral Health website to learn more and fill one out before an appointment.

Practice at Home
    Practicing at home can help make the visit feel more normal. Caregivers can help by taking small steps before the appointment.

• Sit in a chair and lean back.
• Count teeth or look in the mouth with a mirror.
• Watch videos or read books about going to the dentist.

Day of the Visit

Plan for Sensory Needs

Familiar things can make a visit more enjoyable. A favorite toy or a blanket can help calm nerves. If bright lights or loud sounds are a problem, wearing sunglasses or using earplugs or headphones may help. Some people may find certain tastes unpleasant. You can use different flavored toothpaste if needed. Simple adjustments can help.

Appointment Etiquette: What to Know Before You Go

Good communication and preparation help make every dental visit go smoother, for you and your dental care team! Here are a few appointment etiquette tips to help you get the most out of your visit:

•  Call if You Need to Cancel or Reschedule. Life happens! If you are unable to attend your appointment, please call the dental office as soon as possible. Providing at least 24 hours’ notice helps them offer that time to someone else who needs care.
• Bring Your Insurance Information. If you have dental insurance or a Medicaid card, please bring it with you, even if the office already has a record of it on file.
• Arrive a Little Early. Try to arrive 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to check in, complete any necessary forms, and settle in without feeling rushed.
• Ask Questions. It’s okay to ask questions if you’re unsure about something. Bring a support person if that helps you feel more comfortable. Dental care is a team effort—you deserve to understand what’s happening and feel heard!

After the dental visit

Celebrate your success!
    After your dental visit, do something you enjoy—like choosing a favorite activity, getting a sticker, listening to a fun song, or having a special snack. Giving yourself a reward can make dental visits feel more positive and something to look forward to next time.

Keep Up with Dental Care
    Taking care of your teeth every day is one of the best things you can do for your health! Be sure to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to keep your smile clean and bright. And don’t forget, regular dental visits help catch small problems before they become big ones. Your teeth will thank you!

You are not alone. Getting ready for the dentist can feel overwhelming, but support is available. Please visit the Pathways to Oral Health website for simple tools, including the Dental Care Passport, videos, and easy-to-follow guides, to help you plan ahead. Sharing this information not only helps the person getting care feel calmer and prepared, it also helps the dental team understand how to provide the best support.