Going to the dentist can be a very frightening and uncomfortable experience for a boy or girl with Sensory Processing Disorder and/or Autism. A dentist who is experienced in working with special needs children will be prepared. Over sensitivity to sounds, smells, and lights can make for a nerve-wracking experience for parent and child.

Parents should be sure that the dentist allows parents to go back to the examination room with the child, as this will be much easier for both the child and the dentist in most cases. Another way to comfort a child and remove a lot of the fear is to have the child meet the dentist beforehand. They may also be able to look at the different machines in the dentist’s office that will be used during their visit.

It is also a good idea to role-play dentist and patient with your child. Pretend that you are the dentist and that you’re examining your child’s teeth. Then, when the actual dentist visit comes around, the exam will not be so strange and unknown.

Many parents have also found that taking a weighted blanket to the appointment to put over the child during the visit works well. It comforts and calms like nothing else can. Earplugs are also helpful so that the loud noise will not bother your child. Some children prefer earphones with soothing music or a video game, if it does not get in the way of the procedure. Taking an Epsom salts bath before the appointment is also soothing and gives a dose of calming magnesium through the skin.

For the child with severe autism, going to a dentist who sedates children may be necessary if the child cannot tolerate treatment by the regular dentist. Some dental offices have a pediatric anesthesiologist come to their offices at scheduled times when they treat special needs children. If the parent takes the weighted blanket, earphones, or earplugs to the appointment, the child will be calmer and more relaxed before the sedation is given to him or her. Having his or her special weighted blanket will be a comfort that is second only to having the parent right there next to him or her.