At McLevin Dental Clinic, we believe that communication is the foundation of effective dental care. But what happens when a patient is nonverbal or has significant communication challenges? Thats where augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices come inbridging the gap between dental professionals and patients with communication needs.
Using augmentative communication in dentistry allows patients with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, or other conditions to express themselves, understand whats happening, and participate actively in their own care. At our Toronto special needs dental clinic, AAC isnt just a helpful toolits a core part of how we deliver compassionate, inclusive care.
What Are Augmentative Communication Devices?
AAC refers to methods and tools that help individuals who have difficulty with spoken communication. These devices and systems range from simple, low-tech solutions to sophisticated digital tools.
Common examples include:
Picture exchange systems (PECS)
Communication boards with symbols or words
Speech-generating devices (SGDs) like tablets or apps
Gesture-based or sign language systems
Simple yes/no cards or buttons
These tools help patients express needs like discomfort, preferences, anxiety, or even give consent.
Why AAC Matters in Dentistry
Dental visits can be particularly stressful for patients who cannot easily communicate verbally. Challenges often include:
Difficulty expressing pain, discomfort, or fear
Struggling to understand what the dentist is doing
Feeling overwhelmed by unfamiliar sensations or procedures
Limited ability to ask for breaks or clarification
By using AAC devices, patients gain autonomy and clarity, and dental visits become safer, smoother, and far less stressful.
How McLevin Dental Incorporates AAC into Dental Appointments
1. Pre-Visit Communication Planning
Before a patients first appointment, our team collaborates with caregivers to understand:
The patients preferred communication method
Whether they use a communication app, board, or gestures
Any specific symbols, pictures, or words they respond to
This allows us to prepare AAC tools that are familiar and effective.
2. Visual Schedules and Social Stories
We create custom visual schedules that show each step of the dental visit, such as:
Sit in the chair
Open mouth
Look in mirror
All done!
Social stories can also be shared before appointments to help the patient understand what to expect in a simple, reassuring format.
3. On-the-Spot Communication Boards
In-clinic, we provide laminated communication boards with images for common dental procedures, emotions, and requests. This allows patients to:
Indicate I need a break
Point to Im scared or That hurts
Confirm OK or Im ready
These boards stay in every operatory and are part of our inclusive dental care protocols in Toronto.
4. Supporting Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs)
If a patient uses a tablet or speech device at home, we encourage caregivers to bring it to the appointment. Our team is trained to pause, wait for responses, and engage with the device just like any other form of communication.
5. Yes/No Simplification
For patients who benefit from simplifying communication further, we often:
Use thumbs up/thumbs down gestures
Offer yes and no cards or buttons
Confirm understanding step by step
This method reduces overwhelm while keeping the patient involved.
6. Tailoring to Sensory and Cognitive Needs
Some patients benefit from silent communication boards to reduce auditory stimuli, while others prefer verbal prompts. Our approach adjusts based on:
Sensory sensitivities
Cognitive processing time
Familiarity with certain AAC methods
Benefits of AAC in Dental Settings
Empowers the patient: Gives them control over the experience.
Reduces anxiety: Understanding whats happening lessens fear.
Improves cooperation: Patients can indicate when theyre ready or need a pause.
Enhances safety: Allows quick communication of pain or discomfort.
Builds trust: Patients feel seen, heard, and respected.
Caregiver Collaboration Is Key
Caregivers are essential in helping us understand each patients communication style. Before appointments, we ask:
What AAC system does the patient use?
Are there specific phrases or symbols they prefer?
How do they express discomfort, anxiety, or consent?
This partnership ensures a seamless dental visit.
Training Our Team in AAC Usage
Our entire dental team undergoes training in:
Recognizing different AAC systems
Interacting with patients who use SGDs or picture boards
Adjusting appointment pacing for communication needs
Respecting processing time and avoiding rushing
This commitment sets McLevin Dental apart as a leader in special needs dental care in Toronto.
Why Choose McLevin Dental?
Fully accessible, sensory-friendly dental office
Skilled in working with nonverbal patients and AAC users
Customized communication strategies for every patient
Patient-first approach focused on comfort and dignity
Final Thoughts
Communication should never be a barrier to quality dental care. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we proudly use augmentative communication devices in dentistry to ensure that every patient, regardless of verbal ability, can feel understood, respected, and safe during every visit.
If youre looking for a dental home that understands your loved ones communication needs, contact McLevin Dental today. Lets create a personalized dental care plan that worksbecause every smile deserves to be heard.