Supporting and Caring for Transgender and Gender-Expansive Individuals in the Dental Practice

Transgender and gender nonconforming youth are rapidly gaining visibility and acceptance. Nevertheless, this group still experiences a variety of health disparities and is often at high risk for negative health outcomes. To improve cultural competence and provide the best possible care to this vulnerable population, health care professionals, including dentists, need to have a broader understanding of their issues. The purposes of this paper are to (1) summarize the prevalence, etiology, treatment, and common health risks associated with a transgender or gender nonconforming identity; and (2) discuss strategies to create a safe and welcoming environment for this population in the dental practice.