Dentistry can be challenging for sensory sensitive patients of all ages. We have many tools to help us help our patients in a safe and effective way. Often, all that is needed is just a little more time and patience to gain the patient’s trust. Desensitizing visits may also be helpful. When these methods are not effective, we can discuss oral anti-anxiety medications and medical immobilization. Finally, some patients may be candidates for treatment in the operating room at Children’s of Alabama. A normal day at Sparks includes patients that benefit from each of these methods and everything in between. We will work with you to find the best method to safely treat the unique needs of each of our patients.

Yes. We believe that a TEAM approach is critical to successfully treating many of our special needs patients. No one knows the unique needs of a special needs patient better than their family. We have a chair in each of our operatories so a family member has a place to sit. We value your help and questions.

We are providers for Alabama Medicaid, Blue Cross, Delta Dental and Cigna. We will also file for any insurance. Please note for patient with Alabama Medicaid that the dental benefit ends at either the 19th or 21st birthday even when medical coverage continues.

Free patient parking is provided in the gated lot immediately to the right of our building. The lot is accessed from 20th Street. The gate will automatically raise when you pull up and we will give a code that must be entered when leaving the lot.

Absolutely. Many sensory sensitive patients benefit from familiar object that comfort them or reduce sensation. For example:

• Headphones, especially noise canceling headphones, can remove some of the sounds from the operatory

• Phones and/or tablets can play music or show videos that hold the patient’s attention during treatment

• Weighted blankets, for some patients, offer a sense of security

• Toys and other objects that can be held in the hand

• Service animals are used by some of our patients and we welcome them. As a healthcare facility, we ask that service animals be certified for this use, wear a vest that identifies them as a service animal and be on a leash.

Home care can be a real challenge for some of our patients. There are no perfect solutions that work for everyone. But, we recommend as much as possible:

• Brush at least one time a day

• Focus where the teeth and gums meet. This is where the bacteria grow that we are trying to disturb.

• Use a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste

• Play around with flavors until you find one that is accepted. Often, taste is creating the problem!