Sensory toys making a big difference for young dental patients

Young patients attending dental services across Bolton, Leigh and Pemberton are benefitting from new sensory toys thanks to £500 funding from Warrington and Halton Hospitals’ (WHH) Charity.

The toys have been introduced within the dental surgeries at Lever Chambers Dental Department in Bolton, part of North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust, and are already helping to improve the experience of children attending appointments.

For many young patients, particularly those with complex needs, the dental environment can feel overwhelming. Bright lights, unfamiliar sounds and clinical equipment can all contribute to heightened anxiety. The sensory toys provide a simple but effective way to offer distraction and comfort, helping to reduce stress and support a calmer experience.

Janine Watson, dental nurse team leader at Lever Chambers Dental Department, said: “The sensory toys have made a real difference for our young patients. We’re seeing children who were very anxious become more relaxed and able to manage their appointments, which has a positive impact on both their experience and the care we can provide.”

Parents and carers have also shared positive feedback, reporting that the toys have helped prevent distress and made it easier for children to attend their appointments.

The team say the resources are now an important part of delivering supportive, patient centred care and have been warmly welcomed across the service.

If you would like to support projects that improve patient care across our hospitals and community services, donations to Warrington and Halton Hospitals’ Charity help make initiatives like this possible.