How Do I Make Visiting The Dentist Easier For My Autistic Child? 

Visiting your pediatric dentist in Medford can be fun for many patients, including those with autism. However, your pediatric dentist knows that the smells, sights, and sounds of a dental office can also be overwhelming for autistic kids. That’s why we have special training to help us treat our autistic patients in a calm and comforting environment. We’re here to help all patients get the proper dental healthcare they need from trusted professionals, which is why we’ve put together this guide on what you can do to help make your child’s next visit to the dentist easier and more enjoyable. 

• Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Early

All children should see their pediatric dentist in Medford by the age of one. This is especially important for kids with autism. Bringing your child in to see us earlier in life can help make them more comfortable in the dental chair. 

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Besides getting your little one used to the dental office early, you should also make sure to practice good oral hygiene habits at home and make them part of their routine. You should help them brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. This will not only help familiarize your child with the feeling of the toothbrush, but it will also help remove debris and bacteria that could lead to tooth decay. Find the right toothbrush size and fit for your child which may be a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush depending on their individual needs and sensitivities. 

• Teach Your Child to Open Wide

Some kids are uncomfortable with opening their mouths wide enough for their dentist to examine and clean their teeth. We understand! Teaching your kid to open wide while sitting still before her appointment can make it easier once she’s in the office.  

• Bring Soothing Items

Having some of your child’s favorite things available during her appointment can help her feel safer and more comfortable. Consider bringing items such as: 

• Fidget toys
• Communication tablets
• iPads
• Music
• Headphones

Communicate With Your Dental Team

One of the most important things you can do is to communicate with your dental team about your child’s diagnosis as well as any accommodations she may need. The whole team from the front desk to the hygienist, the assistant, and of course, the pediatric dentist should work together to make your child’s visit go smoothly. 

The team at our pediatric dental office is dedicated to providing each and every child with the care they need in the way they need it. We’re always happy to accommodate any special needs and listen to both you and your child to make you both feel safe and comfortable. If you’re looking for more information about how to make your child’s dental visits easier, we encourage you to check out this valuable resource from Autism Speaks. 

About The Author

Dr. Eric Gheewalla

Dr. Eric Gheewalla specializes in orthodontics and is a certified Invisalign provider. He was an assistant clinical professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Society, Tufts Association of Orthodontists, International College of Dentists, and the American Academy of Dental Science.

Read The Full Bio