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What Does LGBTQ+ Inclusive Dentistry Mean?
We have taken considerable care in identifying what inclusive dentistry means to our patients and dental team. When you visit our practice, you can expect the following.
- Respect for all pronouns, chosen names, and identities.
- Complete respect for your privacy and dignity.
- Care provided in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment.
- Gender-neutral bathrooms and inclusive signage.
- A dental team trained in sensitivity and inclusive communication.
- Paperwork and forms that use language that is respectful and inclusive.
- A safe space in which you can talk about your oral health needs freely.
Why is Inclusive Dental Care Important?
Everyone deserves to have a healthy and attractive smile and to enjoy all the benefits it can bring. By offering inclusive dental care, we strive to build trust and respect with our patients, leading to improved oral health outcomes in a comfortable and relaxing environment.
We know that when we can provide respectful, identity-affirming dental care, it enables our patients to focus on oral health rather than feeling anxious or nervous about the dental visit. We take a holistic approach to dentistry, considering not only how a person feels but also how a particular treatment may impact them.
LGBTQ+ Oral Health Challenges
LGBTQ+ people can face challenges with their oral health, which we can help to address with professional dental care.
Tobacco usage within this community is higher, increasing the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. When a patient smokes or uses tobacco products, we work with them to help support their oral health. For example, we might recommend more frequent hygiene appointments to reduce the risk of gum disease and ensure they receive regular oral cancer screenings.
Hormone replacement therapy can affect oral health. For example, it may cause side effects such as dry mouth or xerostomia, a condition that can increase the risk of oral disease, but can be managed with proper preventive dental care.
Customized Dental Education for Everyone
Dental education is a vital component of our practice. Our hygiene team enjoys working with patients and helping them improve their oral care at home. Better oral health can positively benefit self-esteem and self-confidence.
Oral Health and LGBTQ+ Wellness Services
We regard everyone as having unique oral health needs, which is why everyone, including individuals from the LGBTQ+ community, can benefit from a tailored approach to dental care.
Some of the services we offer include:
- Gender affirming dental care for patients receiving hormone therapy, and we are sensitive to patients undergoing surgical recovery or who have aesthetic goals.
- General and preventive dental care includes oral exams, hygiene appointments, and oral cancer screenings, which are especially important for people who use tobacco products.
- Cosmetic dentistry, including smile makeovers, teeth whitening, and smile design, can help a firm self-expression.
- Gentle dental care and sedation dentistry for people with dental anxiety.
- Restorative dentistry to help restore or replace missing teeth, protecting long-term oral health.
What to Expect during Your Visit
During your visit, you can expect to receive the following.
- A friendly and respectful welcome at reception, using your preferred pronouns.
- Patient forms with inclusive agenda and pronoun options.
- Time to discuss your oral health needs with our dentists and dental team, as we want to get to know you so we can determine how best to help you achieve your oral health goals.
- A transparent explanation of treatments or procedures.
- A strong focus on trust and safety, and clear, honest communication.
If you prefer not to disclose your gender or sexual identity information, then we will respect your decision. We will need to know your medical history because certain conditions may impact your oral health.
Creating a Safe Space for Our Patients
Our office policies have been designed to protect the dignity and equality of every patient. We operate a zero-tolerance policy for any discriminatory behaviour. We have carefully considered how to create a comfortable environment where our patients can express their concerns or preferences freely. We want you to feel completely safe and cared for, knowing you will be respected at all times.
We provide inclusive dental care for all who visit us.
NYC Dentistry Center6 E 45th Street, 8th Floor, Suite 2
New York, NY 10017
(212) 810-9264