[When words fail].

Abstract

Patients with a cognitive impairment and/or autism often process information differently from or more slowly than other patients. They may interpret certain words very literally. This requires special attention from the dental care provider for the way in which signals are perceived and information can be shared. The use of language is a pitfall: patients use concepts they do not understand themselves. In addition, it takes them more time to understand intentions. The capabilities of patients are often overestimated. Acknowledging a patient s impairment sometimes literally requires translation during treatment, in which the use of language must be supported by visual aids, such as pictures.