Dental care for locals with autism and mild intellectual disabilities has been given a boost.
Bellarine Community Health’s (BCH) personalised dental service received a donation from dental instrument supply company Single Use with a supply of diagnostic kits, dental mirrors and filling kits which will be used as part of the ASD dental program.
The personalised dental program includes a special intake process to understand the individual needs of each patient, and a showbag with visual aids including the dental mirrors to familiarise patients with what to expect at their dental appointment.
“It is often quite difficult for people living with autism or intellectual disability to feel comfortable at the dentist and to understand what is happening, so this service is designed to reduce that anxiety and agitation for patients to give them a more positive dental experience,” BCH Dental Services manager Robyn Bastiaan said.
“The dentist can be a scary experience for many people, so for young children and people with autism or a disability, especially around the sensory and communications challenges, it can be so traumatic.”
“Dental care should be accessible to everyone, without discrimination,” Single Use managing director Barney Johnson said.
“The inclusive dental program is making a difference for patients and their relatives when visiting the dentist, building their confidence, and serving their unique needs. Because of what they’ve done and continue to do, we’re proud to stand by and support Bellarine Community Health in their mission.”
