Special Needs Dental Care
We know that finding the right dental home for a child with special needs can feel overwhelming, and that past experiences may not have been easy. We want you to know that this is a judgment-free space, for your child and for you.
Our entire team is trained to work with children who need a little extra patience, creativity, and care. We will follow your child's lead, respect their limits, and celebrate every small win along the way. Your insight into your child's needs is invaluable to us, and we will always work as a team with you.
We are here for the long haul, building trust, one visit at a time.
Our Commitment
We are proud to welcome children with developmental, sensory, behavioural, and cognitive needs, and we are committed to making every appointment a calm, positive experience for both your child and your family.
Our team of pediatric dentists have completed an additional 2-3 years of specialized residency training after dental school, including extensive training providing care to children with special needs.
Why Dental Care Is Especially Important
Children with special needs often face a significantly higher risk of developing dental disease than the general population. This is precisely why consistent, proactive dental care with a team that understands your child's unique needs is so important. Early intervention, frequent monitoring, and a trusting relationship with a dental team can make an enormous difference in your child's long-term oral health.
Let's Set Ourselves Up for Success!
You know your child best and that knowledge is one of the most important tools we have. The more we understand about your child before they walk through our door, the better we can prepare to make their visit a success.
To help us get to know your child before their first visit, we invite you to complete our Special Needs Intake Form. This form gives you the opportunity to share your child's diagnosis, sensory preferences, past dental experiences, triggers, and anything else you feel we should know. Every detail helps us create an environment where your child can feel safe and supported.
if you would like to speak with us before your child's visit, please don't hesitate to ask.
Our Approach
Every child is unique and requires their own approach, but here are some examples of what's in our toolkit. Depending on your child's preferences and needs, our accommodations may include:
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A pre-visit tour. We invite families to come in before any exam or treatment takes place, so your child can explore the space, meet our team, and get comfortable at their own pace, with no pressure. Feel free to check out the photo section on our website.
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Tell-Show-Do communication. We never surprise your child. Every tool, sound, and step is explained and demonstrated before we begin, so they always know what to expect. This is also something you can practice at home before the visit.
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Sensory-friendly spaces. We can dim the lights, minimize noise, offer noise-cancelling headphones or sunglasses for overhead lighting, provide weighted blankets, or allow comfort items from home. Just let us know what helps your child feel at ease.
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Flexible, low-stimulation appointment times. We recommend being strategic about timing. Morning appointments are often ideal, as children tend to be most cooperative and well-rested earlier in the day. For younger children, booking around nap times can make a meaningful difference in how comfortable and settled they feel during their visit. A tired child tends to be less receptive.
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Creativity.
A Note on Physical Accessibility
Our clinic is located on the basement level and is accessible by stairs only. We are unfortunately not wheelchair accessible at this time, and we understand this may not work for every family. If needed and if possible, we can help you bring your child's stroller/chair down.