Background Commentary on "My Sick Tooth"
by Kathy Wadman (Feb. 02)

Kyle has never been a big fan of any doctor! When he got an abscessed tooth last year, we knew that this dental experience would be a tough one. Not only did he have to go to the dentist, but he required a trip to an oral surgeon as well.

We wrote a social story to prepare him for the dentist initial exam. He was very upset and afraid. His mother made sure he was the first appointment of the day and he got through that one pretty well, with paraprofessional support (above and beyond the call of duty, but Kyle tends to bring that out in people!)and the social story. We contacted the oral surgeon and found out as much information as we could about the oral surgery. We wrote a social story about the procedure. While there was some tantruming, each time he read the story, the degree of severity decreased. By the time of the surgery, Kyle was pretty well prepared. He did do some tantruming before he went, but he got through the day like a real trooper.

Afterwards, he wanted to write about the experience. He dictated the story and illustrated it. He sent a copy to his oral surgeon! It was amazing to listen to him recall some of the details (the color of the blanket in recovery, the way his legs felt weak and rubbery) of the day.

I think he wrote this story because he was so proud of himself. He knew that he was brave, and I think it was probably among one of the hardest things he has ever had to do! He still talks about the experience and in a very positive light!

Search
Conferences | Links/Resources | Newsletter
Bookstore | Mailing List | Email AAPC | Home