Special Needs Dentistry Denver
Every Child is Welcome
Dr. Patrick is extremely passionate about special needs dentistry, which is why he and his team are happy to make any accommodations necessary so that absolutely every child can get the dental care and beautiful smile they deserve. If you have a child with disabilities, just give us a call, and we’ll do everything we can to ensure a stress-free and productive experience.
Why Choose Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry for Special Needs Dentistry?
- Amenities for Your Child's Mental, Physical, & Sensory Needs
- Pediatric Dentist with Extensive, Specialized Training
- Soothing Dental Sedation Options Available if Necessary
How We Treat Patients with Disability
Every pediatric dentist says that they take care of kids with special needs, and what that usually translates into is a few extra minutes during the consultation. Our team strives to deliver a positive and adapted approach to each dental visit. For example, some patients require a little extra time in between each transitional period of a visit (ex: from the x-ray room to the dental chair.) Some patients have the most positive outcome when they have a 10 second working interval and are able to take a small break. The goal is to work with and identify what each individual needs to have a positive and successful visit. This isn't something that happens over night. In the long term we want to support our patients to have a healthy relationship with their oral health.
Special Accommodations for Children with Sensory Needs
Many children are extremely sensitive to sights, sounds, and smells, so much so that our typical dental office environment would make them very uncomfortable. Dr. Patrick has partnered with organizations that specialize in creating sensory environments, which is why we have our own sensory room. He has also consulted with local Occupational Therapists to learn how to adjust his care to work with your child's needs, making each dental visit a calm, positive experience for them as well as you.
We understand that some kids seek stimulation, while others with sensory needs want to avoid it. Before treating your child, Dr. Patrick will discuss a list of options to choose from to help a child be more successful. We take these types of concerns very seriously, so if you have a sensitive child, don’t hesitate to let us know. We’ll adapt to them, not the other way around! Our goal is to increase our patients’ independence, confidence, and trust, so we take baby steps with the kids to build that over time.
Learn More About Our Sensory Room
Patient Google Review
Incredible experience all around for my 6 and 10-year-old kids. The team provides excellent and painless dental care while everything is catered to the wellbeing of children: the bright colors, the light, and the language they use. The dentist and his team have gone through the Star Institute for Sensory Processing training which trains professionals to better serve children with sensory needs. They understand the language of children, including sensitive children - relax them through play, taking time with each patient. The gift at the end of the visit is also a winner. I completely recommend this office if you are looking for a pediatric dentist!
- Stephanie Cohn Rupp
How To Help Us Help You
If you have a child with special needs, here are a few tips to guarantee a successful dental visit:
- Please call ahead and explain your child’s special needs.
- Let us know if they have any medical concerns.
- Share any particular sensitivities they might have to touch, light, sound, smell, etc.
- If your child has mobility issues, please let us know so we can adjust our dental office to allow them to move around easily.
- Does your child have a particular stuffed animal or toy that helps them feel calm? If so, please bring that to their visit.