Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

My son had dental work done previously through surgery & anesthesia because despite our efforts he was not going to cooperate. We tried social stories, practicing opening mouth, practice visits to dentist, coaxing him with his favorite treat (park, game, etc). We resorted to surgery. Since then, his front crown fell off twice
The first time his crown fell off, we went into the dentist after much discussion about what to expect. We explained it all, he helped with opening his mouth, he… read more

January 27, 2013
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members rallied around a parent struggling to help their 5-year-old son with PDD-NOS overcome his terror of dental glue taste and smell, which... Read more

Members rallied around a parent struggling to help their 5-year-old son with PDD-NOS overcome his terror of dental glue taste and smell, which prevented them from replacing a crown despite 21 attempts. Several members shared practical strategies that worked for their own children, including using sedation or laughing gas, allowing the child to watch family members get dental work done first, using weighted blankets or X-ray aprons for calming, requesting flavored glue and turning it into a guessing game, and watching YouTube videos of dental visits to build familiarity. A recurring theme was the importance of finding a patient pediatric dentist willing to accommodate sensory needs, even if it means traveling farther or starting over with a new provider, and maintaining trust by being honest while creatively problem-solving around the specific sensory trigger.

A MyAutismTeam Member

I had problems with dental experience also. Dont think they like someone poking into there mouth. my daughter also asked everytime what each instrument was. It got where the dentis just refuse to work on her, so now i make sure there is lauphing gas and resperidone 30 min before relaxes her enough. I only use this drug on days and times i have to , because although shes very relaxed will soon want to take a nap.

January 28, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

Does he like weight on( weighted blanket or vest). If he does but you don't own these you can have then use the x-ray apron to help calm. Ask about other types of glue that may be available or if they can use a flavor rinse. It may be something they have to think about in advance.

January 27, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

Ask the dentist to flavor the glue and tell your child he has to guess the flavor. That worked for us. But it will have to be the same flavor forevermore if it works. Good luck. You are in my prayers!

June 27, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

try watching youtube videos of dental visits...this helped my son a lot. sometimes it helps create a better mental picture than just talking about it. also written list (could use pictures) to remind and give him something to focus on while he is there. HUGs though the dentist is a fun one

May 19, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

We used sedation at the children's hospital for my 12 year old's dental work.

April 24, 2013

Related Questions

View All
A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
State College, PA

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Castro Valley, CA

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Wrentham, MA