Dentists in Quebec are receiving training to better understand and accommodate patients with neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The initiative, led by music therapist and inclusion specialist Nathalie Leroux, aims to improve access to dental care for individuals who often face significant challenges in traditional healthcare settings.
Leroux, who has been working with individuals with autism since 1993, initially began offering her services as a music therapist at the Saint-Étienne primary school in Montreal. Her approach focuses on utilizing music to facilitate communication and emotional regulation, creating a more comfortable environment for patients. “The interaction happens with the music first and then with the person behind the music. It facilitates communication. You don’t need words, you understand each other,” Leroux explained in a recent interview with La Presse.
The training for dental professionals, held in early December at an event hosted by the Société dentaire de la Vallée-du-Richelieu, addresses the specific needs of neurodivergent patients. According to a post on LinkedIn by Leroux, the sessions focused on fostering a greater understanding of autism and other neurodivergent profiles to provide “necessary and adapted” services. The training was also offered to professionals beyond the immediate region.
A recent article in the British Dental Journal highlights a growing movement towards “neurodiversity-informed dentistry,” emphasizing that whereas dental professionals are not expected to become experts in neurodiversity, increasing awareness and understanding is crucial. The article notes that neurodivergent individuals often encounter discrimination in workplaces and educational settings, and that neuro-inclusion within dentistry promotes a more diverse workforce.
The need for such training stems from the challenges neurodivergent individuals often experience in dental settings, which can include sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and anxiety. Leroux’s work emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments where these needs are acknowledged and addressed. Her approach, developed over 31 years, incorporates all students – those with and without autism – into musical activities, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
Leroux is scheduled to perform a concert on April 27th designed for individuals with autism and all others, demonstrating her commitment to practicing true inclusion. The concert builds on her long-standing belief that everyone can benefit from music and the connections it fosters.
