Alternative Augmentative Communication in paediatric dentistry: a mighty tool to amplify mother tongue’s power

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ABSTRACT

Aim

The role of a child’s mother tongue in shaping his/her identity and emotional development is crucial. In the context of paediatric dentistry, this principle should always be reminded. The child’s right to effective communication, even when a language barrier exists, is a fundamental principle, as recently stated in the ‘Rights from the Start’ rights fact sheet. Preserving a child’s native language in the dental setting, especially in the context of an increasingly diverse society with a significant number of refugee children, is essential. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) strategies can assist in bridging language gaps and improving treatment outcomes, blending with the traditional approaches used in paediatric dentistry. The article promotes flexibility, innovation, and empathy in paediatric dentistry to provide optimal care and ensure that every child’s rights are respected.

Conclusion

• The relationship with one’s mother language plays a central role in children’s growth and in the relationship they can develop with the world, “motherised” by the words of the caregiver.
• The interaction between immigrant children from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds and dentists providing their care requires the integration of traditional paediatric dental techniques with AAC strategies that can compensate for deficient oral communication.
• Dentists treating immigrant children should follow the suggestions proposed in this article to establish the best and most tailored paediatric setting for the child’s specific needs.

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