A trip to the dentist can feel scary for any child. For a child with autism, it can be even more overwhelming because of bright lights, loud sounds, new faces, and someone being very close to their mouth.
The good news? With a little preparation, a dentist visit can go much more smoothly.
Start by talking about the dentist in a calm, positive way. Keep your words simple and reassuring. You can watch short videos, look at picture books, or use a social story that shows what happens step by step.
Practicing at home also helps. Let your child sit back in a chair, open their mouth, and pretend you’re counting their teeth. Turning it into a game can make it feel less intimidating.
Try to keep things predictable. Morning appointments often work best, and visiting the office ahead of time just to say hello can make the space feel more familiar.
Bringing comfort items like headphones, a favorite toy, or a weighted lap pad can help with sensory needs. Deep breathing, squeezes, or other calming routines your child already knows can also be very helpful.
ABA therapy can support this process too. Through gentle practice, positive reinforcement, and building communication skills, children can learn to tolerate and even feel more comfortable with medical and dental visits.
At Connect N Care ABA, we help children build real-life skills for moments just like this. We support families in North Carolina and Virginia with:
We work closely with parents to reduce anxiety, build coping skills, and make everyday experiences feel easier. Reach out to us today and let’s help your child feel more confident at the dentist and beyond.
FAQs
Why is the dentist hard for children with autism?
The sounds, lights, smells, and touch can be overwhelming, especially for children with sensory sensitivities.
Can I practice a dentist visit with my autistic child at home?
Yes! Pretend play, social stories, and visual schedules can make a big difference.
How can ABA therapy help with dentist visits?
ABA helps children learn coping skills, follow routines, and feel more comfortable with new experiences.
Sources:
- https://healthcare.utah.edu/the-scope/health-library/all/2024/10/tips-make-dentist-visits-easier-children-autism
- https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/physical-health/going-to-the-dentist/autistic-adults
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit-excerpt/how-prepare-your-autistic-child-dental-visits
- https://dentistry.uiowa.edu/autism-resources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6102426/
