Dental Assistants, Prescott Valley, AZ
Recently, two Arizona dental assistants - Holly Palmer (left) and Julie Schindele - received training and certification to work with children diagnosed with Autism, Asbergers Syndrome, and similar mental illnesses. The certification, which is granted by the Autism Spectrum Disorders Conference, was presented following an intensive two-day conference hosted by Autism Conferences and Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center. The duo recently talked with Dental Office about the certification and what it has meant to their practices - Kidzaam Pediatric Dentistry in Prescott and Prescott Valley, Ariz.
DO: What first motivated you to get this certification?
Schindele: I have a special needs child at home. Holly has a cousin who has special needs. We are seeing more and more patients who have children with special needs and many parents can’t find doctors or dentists who can help their children. Fortunately our office has learned how to help these children have a positive dental experience. It has enriched our practice and provided specialized care for our community. We have had a very positive response so far and the word is definitely spreading that we are able to help these children.
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DO: What are some of the ways you are helping children with autism have a better experience at the dentist?
Palmer: Establishing a routine is critical. We keep the same children with the same doctor and assistant, every time they come in. We also schedule them at the same time, every time. The key to helping children with autism is letting them know what will happen and keeping that consistent every time. We use picture cards with a giraffe to explain what will be happening, before it happens. It’s no different than the technique they may be using at school. Children with autism have very sensitive hearing, so the less talking and less noise, the better.
DO: What do our readers need to know about children with autism?
Schindele: First, patience is very important. Many people don’t understand why kids with autism do things like flip a light switch on and off continuously. It is stimulating or calming just as if you or I were to tap our foot or flip a pen. Actions like flipping the light switch comfort the kids, and the need to do this is part of the illness. They are literally in a whole other world. Their minds process the world in a completely different way. But, like all other children, they deserve the best dental care available.
Dr. Albert Higgins: I am very proud of team members Holly and Julie. They took the initiative to receive this training to better prepare children for a less threatening dental experience. Parents and family members have enough going on and greatly appreciate the extra care given to their child. By sharing their gained knowledge with the other team members, it allows all of us to continue with our duties without missing a beat. They are true “Kidzologists,” helping children have fun at the Kidzaam Dental Klubhouse.
