Autism Awareness Month

Autism Awareness Month At Willow Pediatric Dentistry

At Willow Pediatric Dentistry, we know that most children don’t have dreams of getting their teeth cleaned, so getting them comfortable with their dentist is incredibly important. For children with autism, this is even more important. Fortunately, Dr. Sam and the rest of our team have years of experience treating children with special needs of all kinds. This month, we’re reaching out to our community to spread awareness about autism spectrum disorder, and how we approach dental care for those affected with it, because every child deserves a healthy smile.

What Is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, encompasses a wide range of conditions that manifest in “challenges with repetitive behaviors, social skills, speech, and nonverbal communication,” according to the organization Autism Speaks. ASD is also more common than one might think, affecting an estimated 1 in 54 children in the U.S. today. 

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that everyone with autism has their own unique strengths and faces a distinct set of challenges. The spectrum ranges from those who need a wealth of support in their day-to-day lives to those who can live entirely independently. In other words, no two children with autism are alike, and at Willow Pediatric Dentistry, we see it as our duty to provide a space where every child can feel safe and comfortable while receiving dental care.

How We Care For Patients With ASD

We typically try to schedule our special needs appointments for times when the office is less busy, in order to allow Dr. Sam to provide truly customized care for your child. Dr. Sam will begin by taking the time to discuss your child’s unique needs with you before starting any sort of treatment. In our sensory-friendly office, we provide comforting amenities like headphones, sunglasses, and more to keep you and your child relaxed and at ease. We also offer a variety of sedation options, including local anesthesia, for those who would benefit from it, to ensure that your child’s visit will go smoothly, no matter their needs. We’re committed to giving every child the opportunity for a healthy smile that shines as bright as they do!

How Can I Help Spread Autism Awareness?

Spreading awareness about autism is the first step towards funding research that aims to better our understanding of ASD in order to find new and innovative treatments and services to better the lives of those living with it. If you’re interested in getting involved with our community, or have any questions about how we approach dental care for children with autism, give us a call at (949) 966-0669 Calls on Click or swing by our Rancho Santa Margarita office.