Dental visits can be intimidating for anyone, but for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, or sensory sensitivities, they can be especially challenging. One of the most effective ways to prepare for a dental appointment is by using social stories. These personalized, visual guides help explain what will happen during the visit in a way that feels safe, predictable, and comforting.
At McLevin Dental, we understand how vital preparation is for individuals with special needs. In this blog, well guide you through creating social stories tailored to dental visits and share how they can help make the experience smoother for patients and their families.
What Is a Social Story?
A social story is a simple, descriptive narrative that explains a situation, event, or activity in a structured and reassuring way. Originally developed for children with autism, social stories help individuals understand:
What will happen
Why its happening
How to respond appropriately
For dental visits, a social story might describe everything from walking into the clinic to sitting in the dental chair and having teeth cleaned.
Why Social Stories Are So Effective
Reduce anxiety: They eliminate the fear of the unknown by making the process clear.
Increase predictability: They outline each step, which is comforting to those who rely on routine.
Support understanding: Visual and written cues are easier to process than verbal explanations alone.
Encourage cooperation: When patients know whats coming, theyre more likely to participate willingly.
How to Create an Effective Dental Social Story
Step 1: Gather Photos or Visuals
Start by collecting real-life pictures if possible:
The outside of McLevin Dental
The reception area
The waiting room
The dental chair
The dentist and hygienist
Tools like the mirror, toothbrush, suction, and water sprayer
If real photos arent available, use simple drawings or icons.
Step 2: Break the Visit Into Simple Steps
Outline the entire dental appointment in clear, manageable steps:
Going to the dental office
Walking inside and checking in
Sitting in the waiting room
Meeting the dentist or hygienist
Sitting in the dental chair
Leaning back in the chair
Opening the mouth
The dentist looking at and counting teeth
Cleaning teeth with special tools
Finishing the visit and getting a reward or sticker
Step 3: Write Simple, Positive Sentences
Each step should be described in easy-to-understand language. Keep it positive, reassuring, and factual.
Example:
I will go to McLevin Dental.
I will wait in the waiting room. There may be toys or books.
The dentist will look at my teeth to help keep them healthy.
I will sit in a big chair that leans back.
The dentist might use a small mirror and a counting stick to look at my teeth.
There may be a noise from the water sprayer. This is okay. It will help clean my teeth.
When my teeth are clean, I can get a sticker or a prize.
Step 4: Use a Calm and Reassuring Tone
Your social story should reassure the reader that dental visits are helpful and safe.
Avoid language like It wont hurt because the word hurt might trigger anxiety even if it’s paired with “won’t.” Instead, use phrases like:
The dentist helps my teeth stay strong and healthy.
The tools might feel funny, but thats okay.
Step 5: Add Coping Strategies
If your child uses coping strategies, include them in the story:
If I feel upset, I can squeeze my fidget toy.
I can wear my headphones if its too noisy.
I can take deep breaths if I need to.
Step 6: Personalize It
Include the childs name and the names of the dentist or hygienist if known. Familiarity increases comfort.
Example: When I visit Dr. [Dentists Name] at McLevin Dental, they will help my teeth stay clean.
Step 7: Review It Regularly
Start reading the social story a few days before the appointment. Review it every day, especially on the day of the visit. Repetition helps reinforce the routine and lowers anxiety.
How McLevin Dental Supports Families With Social Stories
At McLevin Dental, we are happy to assist in creating or providing customized dental social stories for our patients. Our team can offer:
Photos of our clinic and team members
Walkthroughs to create a personalized experience
Suggestions for steps based on the specific appointment type
We also encourage parents and caregivers to bring their social stories to the appointment to use as a comforting guide.
Tips for Using Social Stories Effectively
Combine the social story with other strategies like visual schedules, first-then boards, and sensory supports.
Keep the story accessibleon a tablet, printed booklet, or phone.
Use positive reinforcement after reviewing the story (stickers, praise, or rewards).
Pair reading the story with practice, such as role-playing the dental visit at home.
The Long-Term Impact of Social Stories
When used consistently, social stories help build:
Greater independence during dental visits
Reduced anxiety and better cooperation
A sense of control and understanding over medical and dental situations
Better long-term oral health outcomes
Final Thoughts
Dental visits dont have to be scary. Social stories are a powerful tool to help children and adults with autism, developmental disabilities, and sensory sensitivities feel more prepared, comfortable, and confident.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we are dedicated to providing inclusive, supportive dental care tailored to the needs of every patient. If your family would benefit from a personalized social story or other accommodations, contact McLevin Dental today. Lets work together to make dental care a positive experience for everyone.