Gentle Sensory-Friendly Dental Care for Neurodivergent Kids in San Diego
Neurodivergent Pediatric Dentistry in San Diego
Where autism, ADHD, and sensory sensitivities are met with patience, specialized tools, and a calm environment.
Treatment designed specifically for children who:
Are on the Autism Spectrum or have ADHD.
Experience Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) (sensitive to lights, sounds, or tastes).
Have Down Syndrome or other developmental differences.
Benefit from visual schedules and a “no-surprises” approach to healthcare.
What To Expect At Your Child’s Visit
We modify our clinical environment to ensure your child remains regulated:
Visual Communication: We use “First/Then” boards and visual schedules to help your child predict what happens next.
Sensory Accommodations: Noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, and dimmed lighting are available upon request.
Desensitization (Happy Visits): We offer short, non-treatment visits to help your child get used to the chair and the staff.
Flavor Choice: We offer a variety of toothpaste textures and flavors, including “flavorless” options for taste-sensitive children.
How is our approach different:
Expert Training: Dr. Pokala holds a fellowship specifically for the treatment of the medically compromised and developmentally disabled.
Patience-First Scheduling: We block out longer appointment times so we never have to rush a child who needs a break.
Parental Collaboration: We view you as the expert on your child. We follow your lead on what communication styles work best.
We are happy to perform exams in a beanbag chair, on the floor, or in a parent’s lap—wherever they feel safest.
We offer a range of sedation from laughing gas to IV sedation if the sensory experience is too overwhelming for a child to handle safely.
Benefits for all Neurodivergent Children:
✔ Trauma-Free Dental Care: Building trust so the dentist never becomes a source of fear.
✔ Independence: Helping neurodivergent children gain autonomy over their oral health.
✔ Judgment-Free Zone: You never have to apologize for your child’s behavior in our office.
