Our Story

I created the “igo book system” to help ease the fear and stress that can arise before a first-time dental visit. I have experience in this area from two perspectives. One, as a certified dental professional and two, as a certified paraprofessional working with severe and profound special needs children. My background story takes a few turns and begins working many years as a certified dental assistant for Loyola School of Dentistry. When my family started, I decided to be a hands-on mother of my three young boys. A position at my son’s elementary school allowed me the flexibility to work and be on a compatible schedule with my children. It is there that I worked for seven years as a certified paraprofessional and learned the value and positive effects of non-verbal communication, especially with children with Autism.

Returning to the dental community, I noticed that many young children coming for their first dental visit didn’t know what to expect or what was expected of them. Why wouldn’t the visual aids of a social story work for these young non-verbal children, the same way they worked in school? I created the books to take the first time dental patient on a step-by-step social story of what it is like on their first dental visit. I quickly realized that this system worked great for younger children and children that are challenged. I am happy to say that the “igo book system” of social stories for dental cleanings and fillings eases fear and boosts confidence of young patients.

I truly hope these books and picture strips have a positive impact on your child and their first of many visits to the dentist!