At McLevin Dental Clinic, we are committed to providing excellent care for all patients, including those who face challenges with verbal communication. Communication boards are invaluable tools that help bridge the gap, allowing patients with speech difficulties to express their needs, preferences, and concerns effectively during dental visits.
In this blog, well explore how communication boards work, why they are essential in dental care, and practical tips for using them to improve patient experience and outcomes.
What Are Communication Boards?
Communication boards are visual tools displaying pictures, symbols, words, or letters that patients can point to in order to communicate. These boards are widely used for individuals with speech impairments, cognitive disabilities, or limited verbal skills, including children with autism, stroke survivors, and patients with developmental delays.
In a dental setting, communication boards can be customized to include common phrases, feelings, or questions related to oral health and procedures.
Why Use Communication Boards in Dentistry?
For patients who struggle to express discomfort, pain, or preferences, communication boards empower them to participate actively in their care. This leads to:
Reduced anxiety and frustration
More accurate identification of symptoms or concerns
Enhanced patient-dentist trust and cooperation
Improved safety and comfort during treatments
Designing Effective Communication Boards for Dental Visits
When creating or selecting a communication board for dental patients, consider the following:
Simplicity: Keep options clear and straightforward. Use universally recognized symbols or pictures along with simple words.
Relevant Vocabulary: Include words related to oral sensations (e.g., pain, numb, thirsty), dental tools, emotions (e.g., scared, happy), and common instructions.
Size and Portability: Boards should be easy to handle and transport, often fitting in a patients bag or the dental professionals toolkit.
Customization: Tailor boards to individual needs, adding specific symbols or phrases important to each patients routine or preferences.
How to Use Communication Boards Effectively in the Dental Clinic
Introduce the Board Early: Before the appointment, explain how the board works in simple terms and demonstrate its use.
Encourage Practice: Allow patients to practice pointing to the board to express basic needs or feelings.
Be Patient and Supportive: Give the patient enough time to respond and avoid rushing the process.
Combine with Other Communication Methods: Use gestures, eye contact, and verbal prompts to reinforce understanding.
Train Dental Staff: Everyone on the team should be familiar with using communication boards to provide consistent and compassionate care.
Benefits Beyond the Dental Chair
Communication boards not only improve the dental visit experience but can also help patients build confidence in communicating their needs in other healthcare or social settings.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we advocate for integrated communication support that empowers patients throughout their healthcare journeys.
Tips for Caregivers and Families
Bring the patients preferred communication board to appointments.
Work with speech therapists or specialists to develop effective boards.
Encourage consistent use at home to build familiarity and confidence.
Inform dental staff about any special communication needs in advance.
By incorporating communication boards into dental care, McLevin Dental Clinic ensures every patients voice is heardmaking oral health accessible, respectful, and stress-free for individuals with limited verbal skills.