The University of New England College of Dental Medicine and MaineHealth have expanded a dental desensitization program for patients with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders following a successful 13-week pilot.
The “Bright Smiles and Healthy Futures” program was developed between the dental school and MaineHealth’s Glickman Lauder Center of Excellence in Autism and Developmental Disorders, according to a July 13 news release. The center uses gradual, step-by-step exposure in a specialized dental suite that mirrors a clinical environment to help patients build tolerance to dental procedures and improve their ability to access care.
All patients who participated in the pilot increased their ability to tolerate dental visits by an average of 67%, with several successfully completing traditional dental appointments following their participation in the program.
In addition to patient care, the program trains UNE dental students using evidence-based approaches to care for patients with autism and developmental differences. Caregivers also receive coaching and individualized dental support plans.
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