At McLevin Dental, we understand that oral care can be a major challenge for families of children with multiple sensory diagnoses. Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has sensory processing disorder (SPD), ADHD, or a combination of neurodiverse conditions, brushing, flossing, and dental visits can be overwhelming.
We believe that every child deserves a positive, empowering dental experience. With the right strategies, tools, and compassionate care, maintaining good oral health becomes not only possiblebut sustainable.
How Sensory Challenges Affect Oral Health
Children with multiple sensory diagnoses often experience heightened sensitivity in one or more areas, including:
Tactile sensitivity: Discomfort with textures (toothpaste, toothbrush bristles, dental instruments)
Auditory sensitivity: Fear of buzzing, suction, or drill noises
Visual sensitivity: Bright lights in dental offices or the glare from mirrors
Oral defensiveness: Gag reflexes, refusal to let anything enter the mouth, discomfort with certain tastes
These challenges can lead to brushing resistance, skipped dental visits, and ultimately, an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Common Oral Health Risks for Sensory-Sensitive Children
Plaque buildup from inconsistent brushing
Tooth decay from avoiding certain textures or brushing steps
Gum inflammation due to skipped flossing
Enamel wear from teeth grinding (common in sensory-seeking behavior)
Oral infections if discomfort prevents routine care
Creating a Sensory-Friendly Oral Care Routine at Home
1. Choose the Right Tools
Soft-bristled or silicone toothbrushes for gentle tactile input
Electric toothbrushes with adjustable vibrations (some children prefer the stimulation; others dont)
Unflavored or lightly flavored toothpaste to avoid taste triggers
Floss picks or water flossers for children who cannot tolerate string floss
2. Use Visual and Verbal Supports
Create a visual schedule for brushing: images of each step help reduce anxiety
Use timers, songs, or favorite videos to mark the duration
Offer step-by-step verbal guidance with calm, reassuring tones
3. Incorporate Sensory Breaks
Let your child squeeze a fidget toy, chew on a chewable necklace, or bounce on a therapy ball before and after brushing to regulate sensory input.
4. Experiment with Positions
Some children tolerate brushing better lying down, sitting on a caregivers lap, or in front of a mirror where they can watch.
5. Desensitize Gradually
Start by letting the child hold the toothbrush.
Touch the toothbrush to their lips without brushing.
Slowly work toward full brushing as comfort grows.
How McLevin Dental Creates a Sensory-Friendly Experience
1. Pre-Visit Familiarization
We offer happy visits where your child can explore the clinic, meet the team, and see the tools without undergoing any procedures.
2. Tailored Appointment Scheduling
Quiet appointment times to reduce auditory overload
Extra-long appointments to allow for breaks
3. Environmental Modifications
Dimmed lights or sunglasses for bright lights
Noise-canceling headphones
Weighted blankets or fidget tools available during the visit
4. Empathy-Based Care
Our team uses slow, gentle communication
We ask permission before each step
Non-verbal communication strategies are welcomed and supported
When Oral Health Issues Arise
Even with the best efforts, children with sensory sensitivities may develop dental issues. At McLevin Dental, we approach treatments with:
Minimally invasive techniques whenever possible
Comfort-first strategies, including sedation options when necessary
Post-treatment support to avoid triggering trauma
Collaborating with Families and Therapists
We recognize that oral care for neurodiverse children often requires a team approach. We work closely with:
Parents and caregivers
Occupational therapists (OTs)
Speech therapists
Behavior therapists
Together, we create dental care plans that align with the childs overall sensory and behavioral needs.
Building Lifelong Dental Success
Helping a child with multiple sensory diagnoses develop positive dental habits is a journeynot a sprint. Small, consistent steps make a big difference over time. Every successful visit, every completed brushing session, and every supportive moment lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
McLevin Dental Is Here for You
If youve struggled to find a dental office that truly understands your childs sensory needs, youve come to the right place. At McLevin Dental, we are proud to offer inclusive, sensory-friendly dental care in Scarborough tailored to children with multiple sensory diagnoses.
Our goal is simple: to make dental care feel safe, comfortable, and even enjoyable for every childno matter their sensory profile.
Book a Sensory-Friendly Dental Visit Today
Reach out to McLevin Dental to schedule an appointment or a pre-visit tour. Together, well build a plan that fits your childs unique needs, supporting their health, comfort, and happiness at every step.