By Lisa Copeland, RDH, CSP, CVP
Certified Speaking Professional
Communicate With Influence, LLC
www.CommunicateWithInfluence.org
For individuals with special healthcare needs—and those who care for them—daily tasks that most of us take for granted can become complex, stressful, and emotionally draining. Brushing teeth is one of those tasks.
Whether it’s due to physical limitations, sensory sensitivities, behavioral resistance, or communication challenges, oral hygiene often becomes a daily struggle for families and caregivers. And over time, this tension can wear everyone down—while also leading to compromised dental health.
The good news? With the right understanding, support strategies, and technology, brushing doesn’t have to be a battle. In this blog, we’ll explore common barriers to brushing and share how Willo, the first automated oral care device, helps remove those barriers to bring calm, consistency, and healthy smiles to families everywhere.
The Motor Skill Gap: Why Some People CAN'T Brush Effectively
Most manual and power brushes rely on a person’s ability to hold the brush, follow instructions, and move it across all surfaces of their teeth.
For loved ones with sensory processing and fine motor challenges, or behavioral differences, this can be overwhelming—or nearly impossible.
The Solution:
Instead of trying to force a traditional method, it’s time to rethink brushing altogether. Willo’s automated design eliminates the need for movement or pressure. With a comfortable mouthpiece and guided cleaning cycles, users simply place the device in their mouth and let it do the work. No awkward positioning, no physical barriers—just consistent, effective cleaning.
Ending the Power Struggle: For Those Who WON’T Brush
Sometimes, resistance to brushing has nothing to do with skill or sensation. It’s behavioral.
Whether it stems from fear, previous trauma, frustration, or simply a desire for autonomy, some individuals with special healthcare needs outright refuse to participate in oral hygiene routines. And for caregivers, this can be the most challenging aspect—because brushing becomes a source of daily conflict.
The Solution:
Brushing doesn’t have to be a power struggle. With tools like Willo, individuals can brush independently, at their own pace, and with minimal caregiver intervention. This independence often reduces resistance because the user feels more in control.
In addition, Willo helps caregivers remove themselves from the constant enforcement role, turning brushing time into a positive experience rather than a forced task. Less tension, less conflict, and a greater sense of dignity for everyone involved.
How Willo Removes the Barriers to Better Oral Hygiene
Willo isn’t a modified toothbrush—it’s a complete rethinking of oral care. Designed for individuals who face unique challenges, Willo empowers users and caregivers with a system that works with their needs, not against them.
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or healthcare provider, Willo offers peace of mind—knowing that oral health is no longer being compromised due to physical or emotional limitations.
For Dental Professionals: Expand Your Knowledge and Resources
If you're a dental professional working with patients who have special healthcare needs, you already know the importance—and complexity—of providing compassionate, accessible care. Fortunately, there are excellent resources and communities designed to support you.
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Special Care Dentistry Association
SCDA is a leading organization focused specifically on complex dental care for individuals with special needs. Their website offers exceptional content for clinicians, along with opportunities to earn continuing education credits. -
American Academy of Developmental Medicine & Dentistry
AADMD brings together an interdisciplinary community of healthcare providers committed to improving care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a focus on medical-dental integration, AADMD offers insightful research, clinical tools, and education that bridges the gap between general and specialized care.
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Your Special Smiles
This resource-packed website offers free educational content geared toward caregivers and clinicians alike. From how-to videos to downloadable tools, it’s a practical and compassionate hub for learning. -
Recommended Reading: Unlocking Smiles: Caring for Intellectual and Developmental Disability Dental Patients by Lisa Curbow
This book offers strategies, insights, and heartfelt stories from the front lines of special care dentistry. It’s a must-read for any dental professional looking to enhance their care for patients with complex needs.
Final Thoughts: Shifting from Struggle to Success
Helping a loved one with special needs maintain good oral hygiene shouldn’t feel like a daily battle. It should feel achievable, consistent, and even empowering.
By identifying whether the challenge is a “can’t,” “don’t,” or “won’t,” caregivers and dental professionals can implement more effective strategies—and tools like Willo make it easier than ever.
Because everyone deserves a healthy smile—and a routine that supports dignity, comfort, and care.
Curious how Willo can support your loved one’s oral care routine?
Visit www.willo.com to learn more or schedule a demo.
Let’s make brushing better – together.
Lisa Copeland, CEO of Communicate With Influence, is an acclaimed dental team communication expert, author, Gen X, and IRONMAN who advocates for enhanced practice communications globally. A recipient of the CSP Award from the National Speakers Association, she stands among the top 17% of global speakers, one of three Registered Dental Hygienists internationally to achieve this honor.
