For many families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing differences, or other developmental needs, a dental visit is not just a routine appointment — it can be a significant source of anxiety for both parent and child. Unfamiliar sounds, bright lights, new faces, and strange sensations in the mouth create a challenging environment for children who struggle with sensory input or changes in routine.
The good news is that with the right preparation and the right dental team, most children with special needs can have successful, comfortable dental experiences.
Start early and visit often — even just to say hello
Familiarity is one of the most powerful tools for reducing dental anxiety in children with autism. If possible, bring your child to the dental office before their first actual appointment — just to walk through the space, meet the front desk team, and sit in the waiting room. Some families do two or three “preview visits” before any dental work is attempted. This kind of systematic desensitization is far more effective than trying to power through a full exam on a first visit.
At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Salem, we welcome these preview visits and will happily let your child explore the environment at their own pace.
Tell us everything before the appointment
The more our team knows about your child before they arrive, the better we can prepare. Please tell us:
- Specific sensory sensitivities — lights, sounds, touch, taste, smell
- Communication style — does your child use AAC, PECS, sign language, or verbal communication?
- Known triggers — what has caused distress at past appointments or in similar environments?
- What works — comfort objects, specific language, particular staff approaches that have helped before
- Medical history — any medications, conditions, or behavioral considerations we should be aware of
You can call us ahead of the appointment, or bring written notes. There is no such thing as too much information when it comes to preparing for your child’s visit.
Request the first appointment of the day
Early morning appointments work best for many children with sensory sensitivities. The office is quieter, there is less waiting room activity, and your child’s regulatory capacity is typically at its highest earlier in the day before the demands of school or therapy have accumulated.
Use social stories and visual supports at home
Social stories — short, illustrated narratives that walk a child through what will happen step by step — are one of the most evidence-supported tools for preparing children with autism for new experiences. You can create a simple one at home using photos of our office (ask us and we will send you some), or use a printed sequence showing: arriving at the office, sitting in the waiting room, going to the dental chair, opening their mouth, and going home. Reviewing the story in the days before the appointment helps the experience feel predictable and manageable.
Know your sedation options
For some children with significant anxiety or sensory needs, behavioral preparation alone may not be sufficient to complete necessary dental care. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is a safe, gentle option that helps many children relax without putting them to sleep. For children who need more extensive treatment or for whom even nitrous oxide is insufficient, day surgery under general anesthesia at a partner hospital may be recommended. Dr. Wolff and Dr. Marti will always discuss these options with you openly and help you find the right approach for your child’s specific needs.
Our experience with special needs families
Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Salem has a long history of caring for children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorder, and other special health care needs. Our team includes staff who have worked with these families for over 20 years. We do not rush, we do not force, and we never make a child or parent feel that their needs are an inconvenience.
We would love to meet your family. Call us at (603) 893-5266 to discuss your child’s needs before scheduling — we are happy to talk through what the first visit might look like.