At Space Age Smiles, we acknowledge and understand that service animals are an important part of the lives of many people with disabilities.
We appreciate that these animals are trained to perform specific tasks that help their handlers to function independently. For people with disabilities that affect their oral health, service animals can play a vital role in accessing dental care.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), people with disabilities are entitled to bring their service animals with them to all public places, including dental offices. This means that dentists cannot deny a patient access to care simply because they have a service animal. It is important for dentists to be familiar with the ADA’s regulations regarding service animals.
At Space Age Smiles, an inclusive dental practice in Houston TX, we strive to provide accessible, high-quality dental care to everyone in the Clear Lake region. This includes people who may need accommodations due to a disability. At Space Age Smiles, we believe everyone deserves access to dental services.
Benefits of Service Animals in Dentistry
There are many benefits to having a service animal in dentistry. For people with disabilities that affect their oral health, service animals can provide a number of important services, including:
- Assistance with mobility: Service animals can help people with disabilities to get around the dental office. This can be especially helpful for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices.
- Assistance with communication: Service animals can help people with disabilities to communicate with their dentist and other staff members. This can be helpful for people who have difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Reducing anxiety: Service animals can help to reduce anxiety and stress in people with disabilities. This can be especially helpful for people who are afraid of dental procedures.
- Providing emotional support: Service animals can provide emotional support to people with disabilities. This can be helpful for people who feel isolated or alone.
Tips for Dentists When Working with Service Animals
Dentists who work with service animals should be aware of a few things. First, it is important to remember that service animals are working animals. They should not be petted or distracted while they are working. Second, it is important to provide a clean and safe environment for service animals. This includes providing access to water and a place to relieve themselves. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the handler and the service animal.
By following these tips, dentists can create a positive and welcoming environment for people with service animals.
Conclusion
Service animals play an important role in the lives of many people with disabilities. For people with disabilities that affect their oral health, service animals can provide a number of important services. Dentists who work with service animals should be aware of the ADA’s regulations and should take steps to create a positive and welcoming environment for these animals.
If you are someone who has a service animal, please feel welcome to make an appointment at Space Age Smiles. We offer a full range of dental services from cleanings and regular checkups to implants and full smile makeovers for anyone who needs dental work in the Houston area. Make your appointment today!