I have two daughters. My older daughter has severe anxiety, a growing problem, and Celiac. My youngest, Lexie (The author’s daughter’s name has been changed for privacy) has mild autism and sensory processing disorder. Surprisingly, Lexie loves going to the pediatric dentist because the staff is well-prepared for her visits. Everyone there has a knack for working with special-needs kids, making visits for Lexie a breeze. (Okay, Lexie does put up a fuss, but we usually get through it quickly, and even have fun.)
Recently, I was shocked to read in parenting forums that not every family dentist is well-trained in working with special-needs kids. On Facebook, parents across the U.S. were accusing certain dentists and their staff of being cold, aggressive, and very impatient with autistic kids and teens. Going to the dentist is tough for anyone, child or adult, and can be even more challenging for individuals with special needs who require unique accommodations.
Knowing the Drill : Easier Dental Visits for Autistic or Sensory-sensitive Kids
I asked pediatric dentists for advice on how to make dental visits run as smoothly as possible for autistic or sensory-sensitive kids. Here’s their helpful feedback: (Of course, no two kids are alike, and every child is different.)
1. Start Early
Don’t delay your child’s first dental appointment. “Starting dental care at a young age helps normalize it for kids and can reduce fear or anxiety around the experience. Just like going to the pediatrician is routine, so should dental checkups be,” advises Dr. Marc Adelberg, DDS, a Long Island-based pediatric dentist.
I brought my daughters to the pediatric dentist around their first birthday, as advised by their dentist. Of course, I would have brought them in sooner, if there had been an emergency or specific concerns.
2. Don’t Be Embarrassed
I admit, situations with my kids have embarrassed me deeply because the world isn’t always kind to special-needs individuals. Dr. Adelberg stresses that there is nothing to be embarrassed about.
“It's important to tailor dental care to each child’s specific needs and not feel ashamed if more frequent visits are required,” he says. “Pediatric dentists should be equipped to treat patients with all types of special needs. Special needs can encompass a wide range of medical and behavioral conditions.” In my opinion, if they’re not, find someone else!
3. Consider the Dentist’s Environment
Most pediatric dental offices are designed to be kid friendly. This may work well for your child, or it may be too stimulating.
“Dentists should aim to create an environment that minimizes anxiety. That’s why we designed our dental office to resemble a Disney theme park with video games, interactive activities, and TVs in strategic locations,” says Dr. Adelberg.
A tour of the office can help you decide if the vibe suits your child. For example, if your child is scared of Ursula the Sea Witch, a room with a large Ursula sticker on the wall won’t be comforting.
Our pediatric dentist has TV screens installed on the ceiling where patients can watch shows during treatment, and they get to pick them! (My daughters love watching Pinkalicious at the dentist.)
4. Consider an Early Appointment
“Morning appointments are always going to be better. Your child is fresher, and so is the dental team,” says Dr. Adelberg.
5. Ask About State-of-the-Art Technology
Modern technology can help reduce anxiety in kids who are sensory sensitive. “Dental lasers eliminate the need for anesthetic in 90% of the fillings we perform,” explains Dr. Adelberg. “This not only reduces discomfort, but also helps manage the challenges of treating children, especially those with autism, who may struggle with post-op instructions.”
6. Explain Every Tool
Some kids benefit when dentists explain each step of the process.
“I had a young patient with autism who was terrified of dental tools. We started by letting him hold the mirror and touch the instruments while explaining each one in simple terms,” says Dr. Jarrett L. Manning, a dentist and oral health expert based in Smyrna, Georgia.
“After a few visits, he got comfortable enough to sit through his cleaning with a smile. That moment was priceless!”
7. Keep up the “Tooth Positivity” at Home
Every child is different, but maintaining good oral hygiene at home can help prepare them for dental visits.
“For kids with sensory sensitivities, try soft-bristled toothbrushes or silicone brushes,” advises Dr. Manning. “Using an electric toothbrush on the lowest setting can also help them get used to vibrations.”
Breaking tasks into small steps, paired with visuals or apps can make brushing more manageable. Dr. Manning also emphasizes positive reinforcement: “Cheer for your child when they brush their teeth, or brush alongside them to show you’re in it together. Every successful step builds their confidence.”
8. Let the Child Be “the Boss”
“I always want children to know they are in control. The show-tell-do method is important, and respecting children’s sensory needs is key,” says Dr. Kalli Hale, a Texas-based pediatric dentist and Chief Dental Officer at Toothpillow.
For some children, this means touching instruments (safely) or avoiding certain materials, like cotton rolls in their mouths.
9. Show Your Face – Literally
Dr. Hale suggests pediatric dentists approach patients casually rather than rushing them into the dental chair. For example, she once reassured a terrified patient by removing her mask and gloves during their first interaction, letting the child stand by their parent.
“Sometimes the only goal of the initial appointment is to get the child to sit comfortably in the dental chair,” she says.
10. Ask If You Can Stay in the Room
I’m always allowed to stay in the room with my kids. Some dentists don’t allow this, but I wouldn’t bring my children to a dentist that doesn’t.
“We allow parents in the operatory at all times, except during sedation procedures,” says Dr. Hale.
As for whether or not your child should have sedation, that’s a decision you’ll have to make with your dentist. You know your child best.
11. Don’t Do Everything at Once
If you find a dentist skilled at the step- by-step approach, that’s a great sign. They likely won’t attempt a full exam, cleaning, and X-rays all in one visit.
12. Bring Your Child to Your Appointments
While this approach didn’t work for us because my daughters wouldn’t stop talking to the dental hygienist, seeing a parent undergo a routine dental exam can sometimes help children feel calmer.
About the author:
Rachel Sokol is a NY-based writer and editor with two young daughters. Rachel has a degree in magazine journalism from Emerson College. Rachel has written parenting related articles and often covers special needs topics related to child development.
Read the article here.