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Helping Kids Feel Comfortable at the Dentist:

What It Means to Be a Certified Autism Center™

by Gabrielle O’Boyle, MS, APR, Healthcare Network

or many families, a trip to the dentist is a routine part of keeping children • Recognizing and responding to behavioral cues
healthy. But for autistic and sensory-sensitive children, even a simple • Adapting the pace and structure of appointments to meet a child’s needs
F checkup can feel overwhelming. Bright lights, unfamiliar textures, loud tools, For families, this means working with a team that is prepared to meet children
and new faces can quickly create sensory overload, turning a preventive visit into a where they are. Some children may benefit from visual guides or social stories, while
stressful experience for both children and their caregivers. others may need a quieter room or extra time to build trust. A Certified Autism
Recognizing these challenges, more dental practices are taking intentional Center™ is trained to adjust accordingly so each child feels acknowledged and
steps to make appointments calmer, more predictable, and more inclusive. One supported.
approach gaining momentum is certification through the International Board of This individualized approach can reduce stress not only for children, but also for
Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), which designates caregivers who may have experienced difficult or discouraging healthcare visits in the
participating practices as Certified Autism Centers™ (CAC). This program equips past.
dental teams with a deeper understanding of sensory processing differences and Building Better Dental Experiences for Every Child
provides training to better support children who experience the world differently. The CAC program reflects a growing recognition in healthcare: when care is
Participating organizations complete evidence-based training developed by designed with neurodiverse and sensory-sensitive children in mind, all children
industry experts and individuals with lived experience, including autistic self- benefit. A calmer, more predictable environment helps reduce anxiety for first-time
advocates and parents and caregivers. Teams also commit to ongoing education to patients, children with developmental differences, and those who are simply unsure
stay current on best practices in inclusive care. about visiting the dentist.
Here in Southwest Florida, Healthcare Network’s pediatric dental team recently For families who have faced stressful dental visits in the past, knowing that
completed this specialized training and earned the Certified Autism Center™ more practices are pursuing specialized training can offer real relief and renewed
designation. Their participation reflects a broader movement in pediatric healthcare: confidence in the care their child will receive. For healthcare organizations, becoming
designing care environments where neurodiverse children, and really, all children, a Certified Autism Center™ also signals a long-term commitment to inclusion and
can feel safe, respected and understood. accessibility, helping build trust within the communities they serve.
Why Sensory-Friendly Care Matters At Healthcare Network’s Nichols Community Health Center, this commitment
Dental offices are filled with sensory elements that adults often tune out but can goes beyond training. With support from a grant provided by the Golisano
feel intense or distressing for children who are sensitive to sound, light, or touch. Foundation, the pediatric dental team has introduced sensory-friendly activities
Even the smell of a clinic or the vibration of a dental instrument can trigger anxiety. designed to support children with sensory and developmental needs. These tools offer
Autism and sensory differences are more common than many families realize. calming, multi-sensory engagement, through touch, visuals, sound, and interactive
Today, about one in 100 children worldwide are diagnosed with autism, and play, helping children regulate emotions, improve focus, and reduce anxiety during
diagnoses continue to rise. As more children require thoughtful accommodations, dental visits. Together, they create a more comfortable, supportive environment that
healthcare environments are increasingly recognizing the importance of adapting makes routine dental care possible and far less stressful for families.
routine care so families can access essential services without fear or anxiety. As more dental teams invest in autism-specific education, the goal is for dental
Often, simple adjustments can make a meaningful difference. These may appointments to become not just manageable, but comfortable and empowering.
include: Every child deserves a dental experience that feels safe, encouraging, and tailored to
• Offering quieter tools when possible their needs.
• Dimming overhead lights To learn more about what it means to be a Certified Autism Center™, visit the
• Allowing for a slower-paced visit International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES)
• Letting children see, touch, and explore instruments before they are used at ibcces.org.
• Creating calm spaces with fewer visual distractions To learn more or to schedule a pediatric dental appointment with Healthcare Network’s
When children feel more comfortable, visits tend to go more smoothly, and Certified Autism Center™, visit HealthcareNetwork.org.
families are more likely to maintain routine dental care. Preventive care is especially About the Author
important in childhood, when early habits and early interventions shape long-term Dr. Douglas B. Keck is dental director for Healthcare Network, which provides
oral health. comprehensive dental care at several sites throughout Collier County. For more information,
What Families Can Expect from a Certified Autism Center™ visit HealthcareSWFL.org or call 239-658-3000 to schedule an appointment.
Dental practices that earn the CAC designation complete training in areas such as:
• Understanding sensory processing and communication differences
• Reducing overstimulation in clinical environments
• Using clear, supportive communication strategies

239-658-3000 HealthcareSWFL.org SUPPORT: healthcareswfl.org/donate/

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