Supportive Dentists: Making Dental Exams Comfortable for Victims of Trauma
2 min read
Dentists Recognizing Trauma in Patients Leads to Improved Dental Care
Dentists are increasingly acknowledging the trauma that victims of assault and abuse may experience during dental exams, leading to a shift in how dental care is provided. Gina, a survivor of childhood abuse, shared her story of anxiety and shame related to dental care, which ultimately led to gum disease and tooth loss.
In response to cases like Gina’s, dentist Sharonne Zaks has implemented a trauma-informed approach to dental care in her practice. This approach focuses on making patients feel safe and listened to during their visits, recognizing that dental exams can trigger feelings of powerlessness in all patients, especially those who have experienced violence or assault.
By making small adjustments, such as playing calming music or ensuring patient comfort, dentists can help alleviate anxiety and distress during dental procedures. Research has shown that trauma-informed dental care not only improves patient outcomes but also empowers patients to advocate for themselves.
Despite the benefits of trauma-informed care, there are financial and systemic barriers to scaling up these practices. However, efforts are being made to address these issues, with dentists like Sharonne Zaks working to open trauma-informed dental services with a social enterprise model to provide affordable care.
Education and resources on trauma-informed dental care are also being developed to support dental professionals and patients alike. By creating a safe and empowering environment for all patients, especially those with a history of trauma, dentists are revolutionizing dental care and ensuring that everyone has access to quality treatment.
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