At McLevin Dental Clinic, we believe that oral health education should be accessible to everyone. Patients with disabilitiesand their caregiversdeserve clear, easy-to-understand information about dental care. Writing accessible dental content isnt just about using simple words. Its about creating content that respects the diverse ways people process information.
Whether your audience includes individuals with cognitive impairments, learning disabilities, visual or hearing impairments, or mobility challenges, making your dental content accessible is key to fostering trust, empowering patients, and improving oral health outcomes.
Why Accessible Dental Content Matters
Patients with disabilities often face barriers when accessing healthcare information, such as:
Complex medical jargon
Poor website navigation for screen readers
Lack of visual supports or alternative formats
Long, dense paragraphs that are overwhelming
When information isnt accessible, patients may feel excluded, confused, or disempowered. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we strive to ensure that every patientregardless of abilitycan understand their care.
Key Principles of Accessible Dental Content
Here are essential principles for writing dental content thats truly accessible:
1. Use Clear, Simple Language
Use short sentences.
Stick to common words (e.g., say gum disease instead of periodontal disease).
Avoid jargon, or explain it if you must use it.
Be direct: Brush your teeth twice a day is clearer than It is advisable to perform dental hygiene activities bi-daily.
2. Organize Content Visually
Use headings and subheadings to break up sections.
Include bulleted lists for steps or tips.
Use short paragraphs (2-4 sentences maximum).
Keep plenty of white space for easier readability.
3. Create Step-by-Step Instructions
When explaining dental procedures, home care routines, or office visits:
Break tasks into small, manageable steps.
Number the steps if order matters.
Use visual cues whenever possible (e.g., icons or simple graphics).
4. Offer Alternative Formats
Ensure your website is screen-reader friendly for visually impaired users.
Provide information as audio recordings, PDFs with large text, or videos with captions.
Use images with descriptive alt text to help those using screen readers.
5. Use Friendly, Supportive Tone
Avoid overly clinical or formal tones.
Speak directly to the reader: You can do this or Heres how we help.
Offer reassurance, especially when discussing procedures that might cause anxiety.
6. Visual Support and Illustrations
Incorporate simple images, diagrams, or videos to demonstrate concepts like brushing techniques, dental procedures, or what to expect during an appointment.
Use clear and relevant visuals that align with the content.
7. Make Navigation Easy
Use clear menus with simple labels like Services, Contact Us, or Book an Appointment.
Avoid dropdown menus that are confusing or inaccessible.
Include a skip to content link for screen reader users.
8. Write for Neurodiverse Audiences
For patients with autism, ADHD, or cognitive disabilities:
Use predictable structure: same format across pages.
Offer checklists or routines (e.g., How to prepare for your dental visit).
Avoid flashing graphics or moving elements that could overwhelm.
9. Focus on Key Information
People with processing difficulties may get overwhelmed by too much text. Keep the most important information upfront:
What is the service?
Why is it important?
How can the patient book it or prepare for it?
Example:
Brushing your teeth keeps your mouth healthy. Brush in the morning and before bed. Need help? Call us.
10. Test Your Content for Accessibility
Run web pages through tools like WAVE or Axe to check accessibility.
Test content with real users, including people with disabilities.
Listen to feedback and make adjustments.
Real-Life Example from McLevin Dental Clinic
Lets take the example of preparing a child with autism for a dental visit. Our web content might say:
Going to the Dentist: What to Expect
When you come to McLevin Dental Clinic, youll meet friendly people. We will count your teeth and clean them. You can bring your toy or listen to music. If you feel scared, its okay we will take breaks.
This type of messaging is clear, supportive, and accessible.
Accessibility Is Part of Inclusive Care
At McLevin Dental Clinic, accessible communication is part of our commitment to inclusive dentistry. Its not just about making dental visits smoother; its about respecting every patients right to understand their health and make informed decisions.
Our Promise to You
We continue to update our content, our website, and our communication strategies to meet the needs of patients with:
Visual impairments
Hearing impairments
Autism and cognitive disabilities
Physical disabilities affecting technology use
Join an Inclusive Dental Community
If you or your loved one has experienced frustration with inaccessible healthcare information in the past, know that McLevin Dental Clinic is different. We are committed to making dental care and dental information easy to understand, inclusive, and empowering.
Need assistance or have suggestions? Contact us today. Were always listening, always improving, and always here to help.