Sensory Inclusion Initiative
As the experts in tooth sensitivity, we’re on a mission to build sensory inclusion in oral care, connecting patients with dentists who understand their needs.
For the estimated 1 in 4 people that have sensory needs –
which include sensitivities to sounds, lights, or textures –
a visit to the dentist can be stressful and, for some, even painful.1
90% of those with a sensory sensitivity say they find dentist visits difficult.
26% say they avoid going to the dentist all together due to sensory overload.2
But with small accommodations, we can make going to the dentist
a more sensory accessible and inclusive experience for all.
That starts with awareness, understanding, training and tools.
Only 9% of dentists report receiving some type of
training to treat adults with sensory sensitivity –
Yet 80% say they have at least some interest in receiving this type of training.3
To close this gap, Sensodyne’s Sensory Inclusive Initiative will:
Raise awareness of the need for sensory inclusive spaces – starting with oral health care – through a documentary developed in partnership with Vox Creative, SENSORY OVERLOAD.
Provide oral health providers with needed education and support through partnerships with the American Dental Association and sensory accessibility nonprofit, KultureCity.
Collaborate with oral health care and neurodiversity experts to develop training and resources to benefit the dental and sensory sensitive community.
FOR DENTISTS
about creating a sensory inclusive dental practice.
FOR PATIENTS
about resources for you as a patient with sensory needs.
VOX CREATIVE
about SENSORY OVERLOAD and watch the trailer.
Sensory Inclusion Resources
FOR DENTISTS
Despite growing awareness of neurodivergent and sensory sensitive populations,
there may be limited resources for providing sensory inclusive dental care –
and only 8% of dentists say they have a formal policy in place for providing sensory accommodations.4
Which is why Sensodyne – in partnership with the American Dental Association (ADA) – is sponsoring a suite of CE-accredited courses to educate dentists and dental professionals on neurodiversity and sensory sensitivity.
Dentists and dental professionals can register for the CERP-certified training by visiting https://engage.ada.org/courses/541/view.
The ADA training, which includes a learning module from sensory accessibility experts, KultureCity, will also cover:
Diversity & Inclusion
Preparing Sensory Sensitive and Neurodivergent Patients for a Dental Visit
Common Medications and Interactions
And more
Once you’ve completed the ADA training, you can register with KultureCity to receive the Sensodyne x KultureCity Sensory Inclusive™ Certification, as well as:
Inclusion in the searchable KultureCity App to let patients know you’re prioritizing sensory sensitive care
Sensodyne x KultureCity Sensory Inclusive™ Certified signage and window cling
Sensory Bags inclusive of tools like sunglasses, noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, etc., to help support people during the in-office experience
To learn more about KultureCity and the Sensodyne x KultureCity Sensory Inclusive™ Certified program and supporting tools, please visit www.KultureCity.org.
RESOURCES
DOWNLOAD
Small changes, big wins:
Easy ways to create a more sensory accessible & inclusive office
DOWNLOAD
Get to know your patients:
How to talk about sensory needs and accommodations
Sensory Inclusion Resources
FOR PATIENTS
WHAT IS SENSORY SENSITIVITY?
Sensory sensitivity occurs when everyday life is affected or limited by how a person experiences their senses. While sensory sensitivity looks different for everyone, it can make even daily activities extremely difficult, and can be amplified in high-sensory environments, like the dental office. This is true for many people and can be especially pronounced for neurodivergent individuals or for those with certain disabilities or conditions (for example, brain trauma).
SENSORY SENSITIVITY AND ORAL HEALTH
For the majority of people with sensory sensitivities, going to the dentists can be difficult (90%) and triggering to their sensory conditions (41%).5 From the variety of sounds, unique tastes, variable textures, and often overly bright lights, a visit to the dentist can significantly impact a patient's dental health experience, potentially leading to anxiety, discomfort, and even avoidance of dental care.
FIND INCLUSIVE CARE
Sensory accessible and inclusive care is available. Find Sensodyne x KultureCity Sensory Inclusive™ Certified dentists by using the KultureCity App, which tracks sensory inclusive businesses, dentists and practices across the country. Learn more by visiting www.KultureCity.org.
To further prepare for a dentist visit, Sensodyne –
with guidance from an advisory council of sensory inclusive dentists and neurodiversity experts and advocates –
also created resources to help patients advocate for their oral health needs.
RESOURCES
DOWNLOAD
What to expect when you visit the dentist –and how to prepare
DOWNLOAD
Tips for talking to your dentist about your sensory sensitivity and needs
Our Sensory Inclusion Partners
The American Dental Association (ADA), with a network of more than 159,000 members, has been driving dentistry forward for more than 160 years. The ADA’s mission is to help dentists succeed and support the advancement of public health. Learn more about the ADA and the Sensodyne sponsored CERP-certified continuing education training for dentists, by visiting https://engage.ada.org/courses/541/view.
KultureCity has impacted millions with invisible disabilities worldwide since its founding in 2014. KultureCity’s mission is to provide understanding and create connections within the neurodivergent community and for anyone with a sensory need. To learn more about the Sensodyne x KultureCity Sensory InclusiveTM Certification, visit www.KultureCity.org.
Vox Creative is a creative collective within Vox Media. In partnership with Sensodyne, Vox Creative has released SENSORY OVERLOAD, a documentary highlighting the need for sensory inclusive environments, including in oral health care.
Our Advisory Council
Sensodyne worked with an Advisory Council of sensory inclusive dentists and neurodiversity experts and advocates on all aspects of the Sensodyne Sensory Inclusion Initiative. By collaborating with members of the communities we wish to impact, we can ensure all tools and materials are relevant, helpful and uniquely designed to benefit both dental health care providers and those living with sensory needs.
MEET OUR ADVISORY COUNCIL
Dr. Greg Grillo, DDS (he/him)
Dr. Greg Grillo brings 29 years of dental experience focusing on compassionate, inclusive care. He has extensive experience with neurodivergent patients and has written many articles that help colleagues serve all patients better.
Margaux Joffe (she/her)
Margaux Joffe is the founder and CEO of Minds of All Kinds, a neurodiversity expert, certified accessibility professional, and board-certified cognitive specialist. She helps organizations and neurodivergent individuals thrive by advancing inclusion through consulting and programs like ADHD Navigators.
Lily Newton (she/her)
Lily Newton is an autistic/neurodiversity advocate in Chicago where she works for Easterseals National Office and co-hosts the Podcast, “Everything You Know About Disability is Wrong.” Her advocacy work includes making healthcare spaces accessible and accommodating for sensory needs.
Dr. Kristie Patten (she/her)
Dr. Kristie Patten is an occupational therapist and Professor at NYU. She is the Principal Investigator of the NYU Steinhardt's Nest Program, supporting New York City Public Schools’ largest inclusion program for autistic students and is on the NYCPS Special Education Advisory Council.
Dr. Louis Siegelman (he/him)
Dr. Louis Siegelman is a dental anesthesiologist with experience working with patients with varying medical needs. His deep understanding of neurodiversity and advanced training in sedation allow him to enhance patient comfort during dental procedures.
Dr. TC Waisman, EdD, M.A. (she/they)
After receiving an autism diagnosis at 48-years-old, Dr. TC Waisman evolved her career to include research and work that centers autism. Dr. Waisman is the founder of the Autistic Researchers Committee at the International Society for Autism Research and founder of Adapt Coaching & Training.
SOURCES
1. i. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Disability Impacts All of Us." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 16 Sept. 2020 Link
2. ii. Sensodyne Sensory Sensitive Survey, August 2024
3. iii. Sensodyne Purpose in Action HCP Survey, September 2024
4. iv. Sensodyne Purpose in Action HCP Survey, September 2024
5. v. Sensodyne Purpose in Action HCP Survey, September 2024
