Dentistry for Autistic Children – Portland, OR
Helping Children Have a Positive Dental Experience
At Dr. Pike Dentistry for Children, we offer psychologically based dentistry for autistic and neurodivergent children in Portland. We go the extra mile to develop a unique and tailored approach for each child. If your child needs high-quality dental care from a team of trusted professionals, don’t wait to call our office to schedule an appointment.
Why Choose Dr. Pike Dentistry for Children for Dentistry for Autistic Children?
- Dental Practice Integral to the Portland Community for 50+ Years
- Dentist Uses ABA & CBT Therapy to Help Children with Autism Better Cope
- Experienced with Children who have Neurodivergence and Sensory Processing Issues
How Can Autism Affect a Child’s Oral Health?
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may experience anxiety when exposed to new sounds, smells, and sights, all of which are found in a dentist’s office. If proper steps are not put in place to prevent a harsh introduction, it can result in an unpleasant experience that may lead to dental avoidance.
Unfortunately, the National Library of Medicine reports that as of 2024, children with autism and other developmental disabilities are less likely to receive dental care, resulting in poor oral health and long-term problems.
Children who experience autism or sensory processing issues may also struggle while in the dentist’s chair due to sensitivity. Certain textures, tastes, and pressures may be unpleasant and lead to avoidance. However, with the right approach, special accommodations can be provided to create a positive and supportive environment and experience.
What’s Our Approach to Helping Autistic Patients?
At Dr. Pike’s Dentistry for Children, our team is trained in psychologically based techniques to care for patients with intellectual, physical, and developmental disabilities, including autism.
Dr. Pike uses Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy (ABA) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help children feel comfortable during their appointments. These are proven methods to help children feel comfortable in challenging situations.
We also incorporate desensitization to introduce new concepts and instruments, so that each child can proceed at a pace they are comfortable with and have a sense of control.
Making Your Autistic Child’s Visit Stress-Free
Creating a stress-free visit for your child is essential, which is why we are here to provide helpful tips designed to minimize anxiety and promote better outcomes. These include:
- Informing our staff of your child’s unique needs and sensitivities can be screened ahead of time with our medical history forms. If we know in advance what may be unpleasant, we may be able to avoid exposing the patient to those triggers.
- Read Our Coloring Book With Your Child. This is the beginning of our desensitization process and will help children to prepare for what will happen during an appointment.
- Schedule a New Patient Exam. This appointment will help you and your child to become familiar with our office and team members. This will reduce anxiety and allow us to address any concerns you or your child might have about the office.
- Schedule an Anxiety Reduction Program Appointment. These appointments give children an opportunity to practice and desensitize themselves for each step of a dental appointment at their unique pace. They also give kids a chance to develop communication skills with our caregivers. These are separate appointments and do not have the pressure of completing a procedure.