When should my child first see a pediatric dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing.

Do you treat children with special needs?

Yes, we specialize in special needs pediatric dentistry. Dr. Pokala is a Health Hero award winner from the Autism Society and provides sensory-friendly care.

Dentist office for kids of special needs and autism in San Diego

For parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other special healthcare needs, a dental appointment is often more than a routine checkup—it’s a carefully planned mission. The bright lights, the “buzzy” sounds of tools, and the close proximity of a stranger can be overwhelming for a neurodivergent child.

If you have been searching for a dentist office for kids of special needs and autism in San Diego, you aren’t just looking for a doctor; you are looking for an environment that understands your child’s unique sensory profile. At Pediatric Dentistry of San Diego, Dr. Parvathi Pokala and her team have dedicated their practice to being that safe harbor.

Why a Specialized Approach is Essential

Most pediatric dentists treat children, but a special needs pediatric dentist undergoes additional years of intensive training. Dr. Parvathi Pokala completed a specific Fellowship in Pediatric Dentistry for the Medically Compromised and Developmentally Disabled. This advanced background allows her to understand the complex medical and behavioral nuances that come with genetic anomalies and neurodivergence.

Her commitment to this community was recognized with the Health Hero Award from the Autism Society in San Diego, a testament to her patient-centered philosophy.

Creating an Autism-Friendly Environment

We don’t expect your child to adapt to our office; we adapt our office to your child. From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice features designed to reduce anxiety:

Sensory-Aware Staff: Our team uses a calming, soft-spoken voice and the “Tell-Show-Do” technique to build trust at every step.
Kid-Approved Amenities: Our Linda Vista office features a Pacman arcade station and TVs on the ceiling to provide high-value distractions during cleanings.
Desensitization Visits: We encourage “get-to-know-you” tours where your child can explore the chair and meet the staff without any treatment occurring.

Sedation Options for a Stress-Free Visit

Sometimes, despite the best behavioral techniques, a child may need extra help to stay safe and comfortable during a procedure. We offer a full spectrum of pediatric sedation dentistry tailored to your child’s needs:

Sedation Level	Best For…	What to Expect
Nitrous Oxide	Mild anxiety or short procedures.	“Laughing gas” that makes the child feel floaty and relaxed; wears off quickly.
Oral Sedation	Moderate anxiety or longer visits.	A liquid medication that makes the child very drowsy but remains conscious.
IV Sedation	Severe anxiety or extensive dental work.	Administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist in our office for deep relaxation.
General Anesthesia	Complex medical needs or severe phobias.	Performed at Rady Children’s Hospital for maximum safety in a controlled medical setting.

Parent Guide: Preparing Your Child for Success

Preparation starts at home. To make your visit to our San Diego special needs dentist as smooth as possible, consider these steps:

Use Social Stories: Show your child pictures of our office or read books about the dentist to create a predictable sequence of events.
Role Play: Practice “opening wide” and counting teeth with a soft toothbrush at home.
Bring Comfort Items: Whether it’s a favorite stuffed animal, a fidget toy, or noise-canceling headphones, we welcome anything that makes your child feel secure.
Schedule for Success: Choose a time of day when your child is most regulated—often in the morning when they are well-rested.

“Dr. Pokala is an amazing doctor for children alike and especially with special needs. She has excellent bedside manner and her top priority is each child’s safety and comfort.” — Miranda W., Parent & Patient Review

Ready to Establish a Dental Home?

You don’t have to navigate your child’s oral health alone. Whether you are looking for a routine cleaning or need a consultation for restorative work, we are here to partner with you. Dr. Pokala and her associates are currently accepting new patients who require a specialized, compassionate touch.

Book your appointment today or call our Linda Vista office at (858) 278-8700 to speak with our friendly team.