Lisa Curbow on sensory-friendly dental care, dementia, and treating the whole patient

September is World Alzheimer’s and Dementia Awareness Month — a time to spotlight compassion and understanding. RDH Lisa Curbow draws on 17+ years of experience to share how she helps patients with different needs feel more comfortable in the dental chair.

quip: What inspired your passion for caring for patients with special healthcare needs?

Lisa: My passion is deeply personal. I have a child on the autism spectrum, a spouse living with dementia, and other loved ones who have needed additional support navigating healthcare. These experiences have shown me how overwhelming dental visits can feel when a patient’s needs are not fully understood. They inspired me to advocate for care rooted in patience, flexibility, dignity, and compassion, and to help dental professionals feel more confident caring for patients with special healthcare needs. 

quip: What are some of the most common barriers patients with disabilities or dementia face when receiving dental care?

Lisa: One of the biggest barriers is simply finding a dental professional who feels comfortable and confident treating patients with disabilities or dementia. Many patients also struggle with sensory overload, communication challenges, anxiety, physical accessibility, and difficulty tolerating a traditional appointment. For patients with dementia, an unfamiliar environment or a change in routine can cause fear, confusion, or behavioral changes. 

Caregivers may also face challenges with transportation, scheduling, finances, and finding an office willing to allow the extra time and flexibility their loved one needs. Too often, these barriers cause patients to delay care until they are in pain or experiencing a dental emergency. 

quip: How can dental professionals create a more sensory-friendly and comfortable experience for their patients?

Lisa: It starts with recognizing that every patient is different and asking what helps them feel safe and comfortable. Small changes can make a big difference, such as:

• Dimming the lights
•  Reducing noise
• Allowing sunglasses or headphones
• Explaining each step before beginning

I also encourage dental teams to involve caregivers when appropriate, use clear and simple communication, offer breaks, and be willing to modify the appointment. A sensory-friendly experience is not always about having special equipment; it is about being patient, flexible, and willing to meet the person where they are. 

quip: What oral health changes should caregivers watch for in someone living with dementia?

Lisa: Caregivers should watch for changes such as bad breath, bleeding gums, loose or broken teeth, swelling, difficulty chewing, food pocketing, weight loss, or a sudden refusal to eat. 

Changes in behavior can also be an important clue or sign of dental pain, especially when the person is no longer able to explain what is wrong:

• Increased agitation
• Pulling at the face
• Changes in sleep
• Or resisting oral care

Regularly looking inside the mouth and noticing small changes early can help prevent a minor concern from becoming a dental emergency. 

quip: What practical tips can caregivers use to make daily brushing and flossing feel easier and less overwhelming?

Lisa: Keep the routine as simple, familiar, and consistent as possible. Try brushing at the same time and in the same place each day, use short and clear instructions, and demonstrate each step when needed. A soft toothbrush, an electric toothbrush, a floss holder, or other adaptive tools may make oral care easier. Caregivers can also try brushing in sections, offering breaks, playing calming music, or allowing the person to hold a familiar item. 

Most importantly, avoid forcing care. If the person becomes overwhelmed, pause and try again later. Success may look different from day to day. Even a small amount of oral care is a win sometimes.

quip: What are some signs that a patient may be feeling overwhelmed while in the dental chair?

Lisa: Signs of overwhelm can look different for every patient. You may notice changes in breathing, increased movement, covering the ears, closing the eyes tightly, pulling away, becoming unusually quiet, repeating words or questions, or suddenly refusing care. Some patients may become tearful, agitated, or less able to follow directions. 

It is important to recognize these signs early, pause, and give the patient time to regulate rather than pushing through the appointment. Behavior is communication, and often the patient is telling us they need a break, less stimulation, or a different approach. 

quip: What is your favorite quip product, and why?

Lisa:  My favorite quip product is the Ultra™ Lite Sonic Electric Toothbrush. I love how soft the brush head feels and how easily it can be changed. The three intensity levels allow me to choose what feels most comfortable and works best for me. I also really appreciate the soft, nonslip texture of the handle and how lightweight the entire brush is. It is comfortable to hold, easy to use, and provides a great clean without feeling overwhelming.